Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. (MEPPI) announces the first shipments of its 72 kV vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) with dry-air insulation, the latest addition to the company’s switchgear product line. Designed, assembled, and tested in the USA, MEPPI’s 72 kV vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) meets all applicable ANSI, IEEE, and IEC certification standards.

The 72 kV VCB employs Mitsubishi Electric’s 65-year history of vacuum interrupter technology and provides customers with a cost-effective, environmentally responsible, zero global warming potential option to SF6 gas and alternative gas insulating mediums.

Product features and benefits include:

 - Significantly lower operational and maintenance (O&M) costs, since MEPPI’s VCB eliminates the need and expense of tracking and documenting greenhouse gases.

-  An operating temperature range of -40°C to 50°C, eliminating the need for tank heaters in cooler climates.

- Increased full-fault and switching capabilities, extending product lifespan compared to equivalent gas insulated circuit breakers.

- A footprint and dimensions similar to SF6 gas circuit breakers, simplifying and streamlining installation within typical substation configurations.

- Ratings for 2000 A continuous current and 31,5 kA short-circuit current.

Kevin Goldstein, MEPPI’s Electrical Distribution Division General Manager, says: “Building on Mitsubishi Electric’s industry leadership in designing the power industry’s highest quality vacuum products, MEPPI is excited to introduce its new 72 kV vacuum circuit breaker with dry-air insulation. This latest product addition gives utilities the option to reduce reliance on greenhouse gas-based insulating and interrupting medium in high voltage circuit breakers and provides a high-performance alternative that significantly reduces O&M and regulatory compliance costs. Our value proposition is simple, but undeniable – MEPPI products optimize performance, reduce the total cost of equipment ownership, and consistently provide an ongoing return on investment. As with all MEPPI products, the new 72 kV VCB is backed by a quality program with a foundation built on performance verification.”

Contact Danielle Ramaley, Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, danielle.ramaley@meppi.com , www.meppi.com