Switching devices
Switchgear is a generic term and includes the entire range of switching devices and their combination with associated control, measuring, protecting and regulating equipment. It tis an important link in any power system network, including transmission and distribution systems.
The assemblies of such devices and equipment with associated inter-connections, accessories, enclosures and supporting structures, intended, in principle, for use in connection with the generation, transmission, distribution and conversion of electric energy also form a switchgear.
We all are familiar with low voltage switches and re-wireable fuses in our homes. A switch is used for opening and closing an electric circuit while a fuse is used for overcurrent and short-circuit protection.
Every electric circuit needs a switching device and a protective device. The switching and protective devices have been developed in various forms. Thus switchgear can be taken as a general term covering a wide range of equipment concerned with the switching, protection and control of various electrical equipment.
