ABB has signed a three-year frame agreement with EDF Energy Networks to supply 33kV ZX1.2 single bulbar switchgear for substation refurbishment and new-build projects in London, and the East and South-East of England – an area serving around 7.8 million consumers.
As part of the frame agreement, ABB has already been awarded a contract worth around £1 million to supply 68 panels of ZX1.2 switchgear for a number of EDF Energy Networks sites.
The agreement makes ABB one of just two potential suppliers for the energy company’s 33kV single-bulbar switchgear. It has important benefits for both parties – EDF Energy Networks can rely on security of pricing and delivery over the next three years, while ABB is guaranteed a volume of orders that enables it to plan factory workload.
ABB’s ZX1.2 switchgear features a modular, plug-in approach to meet the specific needs of electricity distribution network owners and operators. It enables compact, flexible substation configurations that offer reliable and cost-efficient switchgear solutions for single-busbar applications. It has technical acceptance from the Energy Networks Association (ENA) and Network Rail for use at 33kV for ratings up to 31.5kA and 2,000A.
Key features of the ZX1.2 switchgear include laser-welded stainless steel enclosures, compact modular construction and plug-in technology that enables simple, controlled connection of busbar, cable, test bushings and voltage transformer, without the need for ‘on site’ gas handling equipment.
All maintenance-free live components – such as switching devices and busbars – are contained under SF6 in gas-tight enclosures, which minimize the effects of ageing and environmental influences to ensure maximum operator availability and a long service life.
The ZX1.2 design also offers easy cable access at the rear, with generous provision for conventional control and protection devices, dedicated cable test sockets and full mechanical interlocking between the disconnector/earthing selector and the circuit breaker.