Hitachi Energy chose CIGRE Session 2022 on 29 August as the place to unveil the world’s first eco-efficient 420 kV circuit-breaker. The technology is described by Hitachi as a significant milestone in its accelerated EconiQ high-voltage portfolio roadmap, and is said to be the world’s first fully tested SF6-free 420 kV circuit-breaker where all the relevant tests described in the IEC and IEEE standards, for 63 kA, 5000 A, at 50 and 60 Hz have been successfully performed.
For over two decades, the company has been investing in eco-efficient alternative solutions to sulphur hexafluoride including development of the world’s first 170 kV eco-efficient gas-insulated switchgear. The EconiQ HV portfolio employs a ‘game-changing’ technology that eliminates the need for sulphur hexafluoride, which is a greenhouse gas. Over time, it has been successful in continuously increasing the voltage levels of its EconiQ HV portfolio.
This innovation is considered by Hitachi as the key enabler to achieving a wide range of EconiQ switchgear applications, and will be used in both dead tank breaker (DTB) and gas-insulated switchgear, expected to be released at the end of 2022.
EconiQ is Hitachi Energy’s eco-efficient portfolio for sustainability, where products, services and solutions are proven to deliver efficient environmental performance. Hitachi Energy has placed sustainability at the heart of its purpose to advance a sustainable energy future.
