Medium voltage electrical installation is essential for businesses that require large energy consumption, such as companies, supermarkets, shopping malls and hospitals.
After all, it ensures a safe and efficient electricity supply, connecting the public distribution system to the buildings' internal networks. More than just power, it requires technical expertise, appropriate equipment, and compliance with specific standards.
In this guide, we'll objectively explain what a medium-voltage installation is, its main components, and the regulations governing this type of system. Let's dive in!
What is a medium voltage installation?
Medium voltage ranges from 1 kV to 36 kV and are widely used to power large energy consumers. Unlike low-voltage installations (residential or small commercial), medium voltage can meet high demands with less energy loss and greater stability.
In this type of installation, the distribution grid carries the energy to the consumer's substation, where it is transformed to low voltage, making it compatible with indoor use. This configuration reduces voltage drops, ensures greater efficiency, and allows large machinery and equipment to operate continuously.
Because it is a more complex system, the medium voltage electrical installation must be designed and executed by qualified professionals, strictly following technical and safety standards.
Furthermore, the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential to preserve the integrity of the workers involved.
Get to know its main components
Medium-voltage installations involve a set of equipment and devices that work together to ensure safety, control, and efficiency. The main ones include:
Cables and conductors: responsible for conducting electrical energy, sized to withstand high voltages and currents, with adequate insulation;
Disconnecting switches: allow manual shutdown of parts of the system for maintenance or operational maneuvers;
Medium voltage circuit breakers: protect the installation against overloads and short circuits, automatically interrupting the circuit;
Transformers: they transform the received voltage to lower levels, suitable for internal consumption;
Screws and busbars: ensure secure connections between components;
Protections and relays: monitor the system, identifying failures and ensuring rapid action to avoid further damage;
Metal panels and cubicles: house and organize maneuvering and protection devices, offering isolation and operational safety.
All these elements must be chosen and installed according to the technical specifications, aiming for optimal performance and compliance with legal requirements.
See the main rules and regulations
The electrical installation of medium voltage In Brazil, it is regulated by standards and legislation that establish minimum safety and performance requirements. Compliance with these rules is mandatory and prevents operational risks, accidents, and penalties.
Among the main ones, we can highlight:
ABNT NBR 14039: deals with electrical installations of medium voltage from 1.0 kV to 36.2 kV, covering everything from design to maintenance;
NR 10: Regulatory Standard that defines safety guidelines for electrical installations and electricity services, including the mandatory use of PPE;
Aneel Resolutions: regulate the connection of consumer units to the distribution network, determining technical and contractual criteria.
Following these rules ensures the correct operation of the system and the preservation of lives and the continuity of the power supply.
The future of your installation starts here
The electrical installation of medium voltage It's a robust system that's indispensable for high-energy-consumption operations. Composed of cables, circuit breakers, transformers, and other specialized components, it ensures a stable, safe, and efficient supply, provided it's implemented in accordance with specific standards and regulations.
Companies, supermarkets, shopping malls, hospitals, and other businesses operating at this voltage level must rely on qualified suppliers and professionals to ensure not only performance, but also safety and legal compliance.
Trifásica Elétrica is a national reference in this segment, offering complete medium voltage solutions and being the largest 15 to 36 kV electrical distribution center in Brazil. Visit our website and see how we can help your business operate with energy efficiently and safely.
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