Customers Find Peanuts Very Tasty
18.2.03

The recent release of the Cooper Power Systems (CPS) VCS-1M “Peanut” enhances an already extensive inventory of electrical distribution equipment supplied and supported by Arthur D. Riley & Company (ADR).

This simple, motor operated, vacuum switch can be used as a single phase switch, or electrically ganged to form a competent three phase switch or intelligent sectionaliser. 

The VCS-1M units are small in size and can be easily manually handled without the need for specialised lifting gear. This enables them to be transported and used with ease on electrical distribution networks.

The light mass reduces the need for heavy brackets and substantial mounting hardware. In fact, the VCS-1M units can be bolted directly to a standard wooden cross arm, effectively reducing installation costs.

The VCS-1M has cycloaliphatic solid insulation which increases maintenance intervals and reduces the cost of ownership.

The “Sector” is a recent innovation from ADR for three phase systems,popular with customers, over 80 VCS-1M units have been supplied to date. ADR’s in house development of the Sector cabinet and control systems has resulted in an exciting new range of switch controllers and sectionalisers. 

Several options for the VCS-1M “Peanut” and sector are available:

1.      Bare switches:
Buy just the VCS-1M hardware and install yourself – with or without a control. If the discrepancy in opening times between phases is not important, the VCS-1M can be installed and operated manually with a hook stick.

2.      “Sector” Controlled Switch:
ADR have developed a simple but effective switch interface module which allows local electrical operation of single or ganged VCS-1M switches. We can also supply an Abbey Systems “Topcat” RTU to compliment the interface module and enable remote operation as well.

The minor timing discrepancies that occur between poles during opening or closing of the three independent switches are normal and not considered troublesome. In fact, they are as good as, if not better than, the standard air break switch (ABS). Also, these discrepancies are stable and not affected by corrosion, temperature, bird nests, pole movement, etc., as is the case with ABS’s.

3.      “Sector” Controlled Switch with fault indication:
A CHK LT30 line fault indicator can also be added to the “Sector” controlled switch. With an RTU fitted, remote indication of passage of fault is obtained.

4.      “Sector” Sectionaliser:
Another option is to add a special, application specific, CHK LT30 line fault indicator and configure the RTU to provide automatic sectionalising of the circuit. ADR have several cost effective sectionalising schemes available and we would be pleased to discuss these with you. 

For more details on these cost effective solutions, please contact you nearest ADR office.