How to Select the Right SIS System

1221 words|Published On: 05/11/2025|

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What Do  Letter Designations Mean on Solid Insulated Switchgear?

When electrical engineers select Solid Insulated Switchgear (SIS) for medium voltage systems, understanding the letter and number codes on GE equipment becomes essential. These designations are not random — they reveal critical information like:

 System ratings
 Installation type
 Interruption technology
 Protection capability
 Application environment

A correct interpretation ensures that the switchgear you select fully matches operational safety and performance requirements.

As a professional MV equipment manufacturer, Degatech focuses on advanced Solid Insulated Switchgear designed for compact substations, renewable energy systems, and modern utilities. With new safety, sustainability, and maintenance standards emerging, decision-makers must know exactly what these codes represent.


What Is Solid Insulated Switchgear?

Solid Insulated Switchgear (SIS) is a modern alternative to SF6 gas-insulated switchgear.
Instead of gas, it uses solid insulation materials such as epoxy compounds to encapsulate live components.

ComparisonSF6 GISSolid Insulated Switchgear
Insulation MediumSF6 greenhouse gasSolid dielectric
Environmental ImpactHigh carbon footprintEco-friendly
MaintenanceGas leakage testing requiredLow maintenance
Installation SpaceCompactUltra-compact
Long-term CostMediumLower cost lifecycle

 Keyword benefits included for SEO:

Solid Insulated Switchgear = safer + SF6-free + longer life cycle

Degatech SIS technology delivers arc protection, reliable switching, and excellent endurance for medium voltage systems up to 40.5kV.

Why GE Switchgear Letter Designations Matter

Every alphabet symbol on GE SIS part names conveys real engineering meaning.
Here are the main types you may encounter:

Letter CodeMeaningWhat It Indicates
VVacuum InterruptionOperation method
CMetal-clad / CompactStructure classification
SSolid Insulation SystemInsulation material
A/BProtection FunctionArc fault or breaker ratings
RRing Main UnitNetwork configuration
PProtection relay integratedControl capability

Example:

📌“GVS–24”
G = GE switchgear series
 V = Vacuum breaker
 S = Solid insulated
 24 = Voltage rating (24kV)


Most Common GE Designations Explained

Let’s decode typical industry codes frequently found on Solid Insulated Switchgear systems:

DesignationDescriptionBuyer Interpretation
SISSolid Insulated SwitchgearEco-friendly switchgear type
RMURing Main UnitLoop/feeder network design
VCBVacuum Circuit BreakerInterruption method
LBSLoad Break SwitchSwitching load capacity
FDRFeeder ProtectionIntegrated relay
AISAir Insulated SwitchgearNot solid insulation
GISGas Insulated SwitchgearSF6-based—older models

Voltage Ratings and Performance Codes Used by GE

These performance classifications determine whether equipment suits industrial, utility, or renewable energy demands:

IndicatorWhat It MeansImportance
kVRated system voltageSafety zone for application
kAShort-circuit breaking currentArc withstand capability
BILBasic impulse levelSurge protection
IACInternal arc classOperator safety performance
IPEnvironmental enclosure ratingOutdoor vs indoor use

Example:

IAC AFLR-20kA / 1s
→ The switchgear can withstand an internal arc facing front, side, and rear for 1 second
→ Critical indicator for substation operators


Application Scenarios of Solid Insulated Switchgear

Solid Insulated Switchgear has quickly become the preferred solution in:

Application AreaWhy SIS Is SuitableRequired Features
Urban substationsSmall footprintCompact structure, safety
Commercial complexesHigh reliabilityIntegrated protection
Renewable energy stationsEco requirementsLow maintenance
Metro & rail systemsLimited spaceArc-resistant design
Offshore & coastal regionsHarsh environmentHigh IP level
Industrial plantsHigh load switchingStrong breaking capacity

Because SIS does not rely on SF6 gas, it significantly reduces environmental compliance risks and maintenance costs in long-term operations.

Degatech’s Solid Insulated Switchgear is built to meet modern sustainability standards and global MV power distribution demands.


Advantages of Choosing Solid Insulated Switchgear

To help engineers evaluate systems scientifically, here’s a performance comparison of different switchgear types:

FeatureAISGIS (SF6)SIS
Space-saving★★☆☆☆★★★★★★★★★★
Eco Performance★★★☆☆★★☆☆☆★★★★★
MaintenanceMediumRequires gas checkLow
Arc Protection★★★☆☆★★★★☆★★★★★
Lifecycle CostMediumHighLow
Customer Demand Trend↓ Declining→ Stable↑ Rapidly growing

Why SIS > GIS?
Because SF6 is now restricted in many countries, SIS represents the future mainstream choice.


How to Interpret Design Letters When Selecting GE Solid Insulated Switchgear

When reviewing a GE catalog, buyers should evaluate these 5 core aspects:

Insulation Type
S = Solid insulation → Preferred for compact layouts

Interruption Method
V = Vacuum interruption → High endurance and safety

Network Configuration
R = Ring main → Efficient distribution design

Protection Level
A / B ratings → Arc withstand performance

Voltage Code
24 / 40.5 = Grid compatibility confirmation

Example selection checklist:

QuestionWhat to CheckDesignation Indicator
Indoor/Outdoor?IP and installation type“C” compact / enclosure level
Short circuit capacity?kA ratingExample: 20kA/25kA
Can loops be expanded later?RMU capability“R” code
Personal arc protection?IAC classAFLR certification

By decoding these designations properly, engineers can avoid mismatch and unnecessary costs in installation and testing.


Degatech Solid Insulated Switchgear Solutions

Degatech delivers SIS products built for:

✔ Smart distribution automation
✔ Safety in compact areas
✔ Zero SF6 environmental pressure
✔ Long lifecycle performance
✔ Reliable operation in mission-critical grids

We offer:

Model SeriesVoltage RatingMain Feature
SIS-1212kVCompact indoor RMU
SIS-2424kVIndustrial control + auto switching
SIS-40.540.5kVUtility-grade performance

📌 Want to explore more?
Visit: https://chinadegatech.com/

Installation & Maintenance Recommendations

To maximize operational reliability, we recommend:

 Thermal scanning before energizing
 Annual torque inspection for joints
 Partial discharge monitoring in high-risk environments
 Confirm arc protection zones correctly tagged
Maintain clean enclosure ventilation

Correct installation + predictive maintenance =
long lifecycle + cost efficiency


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below are common technical questions customers ask when selecting Solid Insulated Switchgear and interpreting GE designation codes.


  What does “S” mean in GE switchgear models?

“S” represents Solid insulation, which means the switchgear uses epoxy resin or other solid dielectric materials instead of SF6 gas.
It indicates stronger environmental compliance and reduced gas leakage risks.


 What is the difference between “V” and “L” in GE switchgear?

CodeMeaningUsage
VVacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB)Switching fault current
LLoad Break Switch (LBS)Switching load current only

Engineers must verify if the equipment supports fault interruption or load switching only.


 What does the number after the letters indicate?

It indicates the maximum rated voltage that the Solid Insulated Switchgear can operate in:

ExampleMeaning
“24”Rated for 24kV systems
“40.5”Rated for higher utility-level grid voltage

Selecting incorrect voltage level may lead to insulation stress and operation failure.


 What is BIL in GE SIS selection?

BIL stands for Basic Impulse Level.
It measures resistance to high-energy lightning and switching surges.
Higher BIL = Stronger transient protection.


 Why choose Solid Insulated Switchgear over SF6 GIS?

Because SIS offers:

 No greenhouse gas
 Reduced leakage and compliance risk
 Lower maintenance
 Comparable arc protection and lifetime

It is now the preferred solution in most compact MV substation projects.


 Does Degatech provide customized Solid Insulated Switchgear?

Yes. Degatech offers:

✔ Custom configurations
✔ Smart monitoring integration
✔ Flexible feeders and automation
✔ Voltage rating options up to 40.5kV

We support OEM/ODM programs for global power distributors.


How to Order Solid Insulated Switchgear from Degatech

To ensure correct model selection, engineers should prepare:

 Rated system voltage and frequency
 Short-circuit capacity (kA)
 Number of incoming/outgoing feeders
 Protection relay strategy
 Indoor or outdoor installation
 Arc classification requirements

Degatech provides professional pre-sales engineering support to help you configure the ideal SIS system.

📌 Visit: https://chinadegatech.com/
📩 Contact us for technical documents & pricing


Conclusion

GE letter designations on Solid Insulated Switchgear provide critical insight into:

 Insulation material
 Breaking technology
 Network configuration
 Voltage level and performance rating
 Arc and environmental protection capability

Understanding these codes leads to safer, more reliable, and cost-optimized power distribution.

Degatech’s Solid Insulated Switchgear lineup provides a
modern, SF6-free and compact solution
designed for smart substations and sustainable grid development.

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