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Safe Switch Disconnector

Innovation and cost reduction in switch disconnectors control​​​​

 

 

Technology enables real-time remote monitoring of switch disconnectors

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Technology for remote monitoring of switch disconnectors

This innovation enables remote tracking of switch disconnector operation, reducing costs while increasing system availability, safety, and efficiency

Switch disconnectors play a critical role in the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems. However, when operated incorrectly or energized under the wrong conditions, they can lead to catastrophic failures. The complexity of these operations has presented significant challenges, primarily due to the lack of comprehensive and reliable market solutions.

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During the operation of a critical switch disconnector, it is essential to visually confirm whether the switch is indeed in the open or closed position, requiring an operator to travel to the field for visual inspection.

This process becomes even more complex and costly when the substation is located in remote areas, far from urban centers.

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Relying on an operator’s physical presence to confirm the switch’s position exposes the system to additional risks, such as operational delays and adverse weather conditions.

Adding to this is the inability to install mechanical or electrical sensors directly on the switch disconnector contacts, as they are energized at high voltage and would require costly electrical insulation.

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The challenge, therefore, is to develop technologies that can provide accurate confirmation of a switch disconnector’s position, open or closed, without visual inspection or putting operators at risk.​​

How hubz helps address this challenge

 

hubz has developed an innovative technology to monitor the status of switch disconnectors, enabling real-time remote verification of their open or closed position using only fiber optics and a sensor installed on the switch’s contacts.

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Beyond improving safety, the system also reduces staffing needs and minimizes the number of electronic or electrical components in the field.

The first development phase, carried out in partnership with UFRJ, successfully validated a lab prototype and included initial market assessments. The technology was designed with sensor module adaptability in mind, making it suitable for various switch types and enabling automated remote monitoring of all switch disconnectors within a substation. Key benefits include:

 

  • Reduced operational risks through reliable information about switch disconnector status: open or closed

  • Lower socio-economic and environmental impacts by minimizing the negative effects of faulty switch operations

  • Digital transformation of substations, facilitating remote switch disconnector monitoring

  • Improved operational efficiency and reduced substation costs, including fewer fines due to downtime, especially in remote areas​

To bring this technology to market, hubz plans to apply lab-tested results in the field by developing a complete, accurate, robust, easy-to-install, operate, and maintain system, with optimized costs for scaled production and integration into substation supervisory systems.

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Results

The first development phase was completed successfully, with business model evaluations, supply chain analysis, and TRL 4 lab testing of the prototype, achieving the following:

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  • Strong financial backing from ANEEL R&D programs through four electric transmission companies

  • Fast and efficient execution in just 18 months, ahead of the initial 24-month schedule

  • Strategic sensor development with prioritized switch disconnector types and advanced temperature monitoring at the contact point, ensuring precision and safety

  • Detailed initial analysis of business model alternatives and supply chains, focused on future commercial exploitation of the technology, culminating in a patent application

  • Academic contributions including one master’s and one bachelor’s degree, submission of two scientific papers, major media coverage to raise project visibility, and a final workshop to share results and knowledge

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