
How to Select the Right SIS System
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.
| Comparison | SF6 GIS | Solid Insulated Switchgear |
|---|---|---|
| Insulation Medium | SF6 greenhouse gas | Solid dielectric |
| Environmental Impact | High carbon footprint | Eco-friendly |
| Maintenance | Gas leakage testing required | Low maintenance |
| Installation Space | Compact | Ultra-compact |
| Long-term Cost | Medium | Lower 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 Code | Meaning | What It Indicates |
|---|---|---|
| V | Vacuum Interruption | Operation method |
| C | Metal-clad / Compact | Structure classification |
| S | Solid Insulation System | Insulation material |
| A/B | Protection Function | Arc fault or breaker ratings |
| R | Ring Main Unit | Network configuration |
| P | Protection relay integrated | Control 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:
| Designation | Description | Buyer Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| SIS | Solid Insulated Switchgear | Eco-friendly switchgear type |
| RMU | Ring Main Unit | Loop/feeder network design |
| VCB | Vacuum Circuit Breaker | Interruption method |
| LBS | Load Break Switch | Switching load capacity |
| FDR | Feeder Protection | Integrated relay |
| AIS | Air Insulated Switchgear | Not solid insulation |
| GIS | Gas Insulated Switchgear | SF6-based—older models |
Voltage Ratings and Performance Codes Used by GE
These performance classifications determine whether equipment suits industrial, utility, or renewable energy demands:
| Indicator | What It Means | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| kV | Rated system voltage | Safety zone for application |
| kA | Short-circuit breaking current | Arc withstand capability |
| BIL | Basic impulse level | Surge protection |
| IAC | Internal arc class | Operator safety performance |
| IP | Environmental enclosure rating | Outdoor 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 Area | Why SIS Is Suitable | Required Features |
|---|---|---|
| Urban substations | Small footprint | Compact structure, safety |
| Commercial complexes | High reliability | Integrated protection |
| Renewable energy stations | Eco requirements | Low maintenance |
| Metro & rail systems | Limited space | Arc-resistant design |
| Offshore & coastal regions | Harsh environment | High IP level |
| Industrial plants | High load switching | Strong 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:
| Feature | AIS | GIS (SF6) | SIS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space-saving | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Eco Performance | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Maintenance | Medium | Requires gas check | Low |
| Arc Protection | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Lifecycle Cost | Medium | High | Low |
| 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:
| Question | What to Check | Designation Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor/Outdoor? | IP and installation type | “C” compact / enclosure level |
| Short circuit capacity? | kA rating | Example: 20kA/25kA |
| Can loops be expanded later? | RMU capability | “R” code |
| Personal arc protection? | IAC class | AFLR 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 Series | Voltage Rating | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|
| SIS-12 | 12kV | Compact indoor RMU |
| SIS-24 | 24kV | Industrial control + auto switching |
| SIS-40.5 | 40.5kV | Utility-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?
| Code | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| V | Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB) | Switching fault current |
| L | Load 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:
| Example | Meaning |
|---|---|
| “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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