Switches for HVDC applications are designed to close and open very rapidly in case of fault or for maintenance purposes. The switches may have to commutate load current while maintaining the flow of power within DC substation and its availability.

All HVDC switches are activated by the highly reliable spring-spring mechanism and benefit of a huge experience and installed base of AC circuit-breaker technology delivered worldwide in regards to design technology, to quality in terms of supplier qualification, assembly processes and ISO conformity.

HVDC Switches

Switches for HVDC applications are designed to close and open very rapidly in case of fault or for maintenance purposes. The switches may have to commutate load current while maintaining the flow of power within DC substation and its availability.

All HVDC switches are activated by the highly reliable spring-spring mechanism and benefit of a huge experience and installed base of AC circuit-breaker technology delivered worldwide in regards to design technology, to quality in terms of supplier qualification, assembly processes and ISO conformity.

Today's Challenging Environment

Globally the utility environment is becoming more complex and utilities are having to manage new challenges such as:

  • Increasing demand for electricity
  • Connection of remote generation
  • Growth of distant offshore wind
  • Integration of variable renewable generation
  • Need for security of supply
  • Reduce carbon footprint
  • Land costs becoming more expensive
  • New right-of-way access permits increasing difficult to obtain

The only choice for many utilities is to restructure their grid systems to manage these challenges. Utilities are looking for cost effective solutions to transfer power and to improve the quality, stability and reliability of the grid which will anticipate their needs for the next 20 to 50 years.

GE Vernova's Solution

High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) solutions are ideal for supporting existing AC transmission systems or for building new power highways. HVDC is a system which interconnects two AC networks, converting AC voltage to DC voltage, and DC voltage to AC voltage utilizing power electronics technology. HVDC systems enable transfer of power, interconnection of grids, integration of renewables and maximize grid performance.

hvdc-disc Back to back HVDC Interconnection

The GE Vernova Advantage

GE Vernova’s HVDC Switches are developed based on the highest standards for performance, ratings, user convenience and reliability.

Every model is designed utilizing 3D design tools and analysis software to achieve the highest performance. Switches and Disconnectors are thoroughly type tested and subject to routine tests to meet or exceed the latest standards and requirements. Dependent on customer requirements, GE Vernova is able to design and supply highly customized products.

Based on years of global experience, deep domain expertise, manufacturing excellence and several deployments across multiple applications and industries, GE Vernova has dedicated projects teams working in partnership with our customers to ensure successful equipment implementations. GE Vernova provides customers with the following competitive advantages.

Robust Design Leveraging Cutting Edge Technology Provides High Performance and Lower Total Cost of Ownership
  • Durable spring-spring mechanism with 5 times more reliability than hydraulic, pneumatic or hydraulic-spring designs*
  • HVDC switches are specifically designed to address HVDC constraints and are derived from conventional AC breaker with self-blast technology, with improved technology and performances for DC applications.
  • All switchgear is designed to operate within extreme environmental conditions with available options for high elevation, very low and high temperatures (-60 °C to +60 °C), seismic zones, polluted areas, and corrosive atmospheres.
Manufacturing Excellence to Ensure Highest Quality Standards
  • Global manufacturing sites certified according to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards
  • Products are manufactured utilizing GE Vernova’s Advanced Production System ensuring the highest level of quality
  • Customized designes available to meet customer application requirements
Extensive Research, Testing and Proven Field Experience Resulting in Enhanced Reliability
  • R&D Competence Centers and associated testing labaratories assure extensive research and testing for DC applications
  • Specific HVDC tests are carried out in laboratories to ensure best performance over life time of assets
  • 400,000+ units of circuit breakers and disconnectors for AC and DC installed worldwide and in service in more than 100 countries
Optional Features for Enhanced System Compatibility, Digital Integration and In-House Expertise
  • Complete monitoring system available for asset management and digital substation integration
  • Full life-cycle support for products, spare parts management and technical training by GE Vernova Subject Matter Experts
  • Local Product Sales Specialists provide strong product and technical support

*according to CIGRE report 510.

hvdc-sen HVDC Substion Bina India

HVDC Switches

dc-switch DC Switch in Champa India

Where more than one HVDC Pole share a common transmission conductor (typically the neutral) it is advantageous to be able to commutate the DC current between transmission paths without interrupting the DC power flow.

NBGS – Neutral Bus Ground Switch

This switch is normally open but when closed it solidly connects the converter neutral to the station earth mat. Operation with this switch can normally be maintained if the converter can be operated in a bipole mode with balanced currents between the poles, that is, the DC current to earth is very small. The switch is also able to open, commutating a small DC unbalance current out of the switch and into the DC circuit.

NBS – Neutral Bus Switch

A NBS is in series with the neutral connection of each pole. In the event of an earth fault on one pole, that pole will be blocked. However, the pole remaining in service will continue to feed DC current into the fault via the common neutral connection. The NBS is used to divert the DC current away from the blocked pole to ground.

GRTS – Ground Return Transfer Switch

The connection between the HVDC conductor and the neutral point includes both a high voltage disconnector and a GRTS and is used as part of the switching operation to configure the HVDC scheme as either a ground return monopole or a metallic return monopole. The disconnector is maintained open if the HV conductor is energized in order to isolate the medium voltage GRTS from the high voltage.

The GRTS is closed, following the closing of the disconnector in order to put the HV conductor in parallel with the earth path. The GRTS is also used to commutate the load current from the HV conductor transferring the path to the earth (or ground return) path. Once current flow through the HV conductor is detected as having stopped, the disconnector can be opened, allowing the HV conductor to be re-energised at high voltage.

MRTB – Metallic Return Transfer Breaker

The MRTB is used in conjunction with the GRTS to commutate the DC load current between the earth (ground return) and a parallel, otherwise unused, HV conductor (metallic return).

The MRTB closes in order to put the low impedance earth return path in parallel with the metallic return path. The MRTB must also be able to open, causing current flowing through the earth return to commutate into the much higher impedance metallic return path.

Bypass Switch (BPS) and Fast Acting Discharge Switch (FADS)

bypass-switch Bypass Switch BPS during Testing

This switching device can be used either as a HVDC by-pass or a fast discharge switch.

As a by-pass switch , it is connected across each converter valve group in HVDC schemes using more than one independent converter per pole. It shall closes rapidly to by-pass a converter group that is being taken out of service and commutate the current back into a valve group that is being taken back into service.

As a fast acting discharge switch, it is connected between one pole and a resistance connected to the ground. It remains opened until a fault occurs in AC network. AC circuit-breaker clears the fault, but a trapped charge remains in the HVDC line and shall be discharged before the AC circuit-breaker re-close and re-energize the poles 300 ms later: for it, fast acting discharge switch shall perform a fast CO within these 300 ms to discharge and re-isolate the pole from the ground.

High Speed Switch

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High speed switches can be used either as a line paralleling switch or either as converter paralleling switch.

As a line paralleling switch, it is connected in series to one or more high voltage pole conductors allowing one or more line to be connected in parallel or to revert to a single line operation while maintaining the flow of HVDC power.

As a converter paralleling switch, it is connected in series to each converter at the high voltage DC terminal where 2 or more converters are connected in parallel onto a common pole conductor. It is designed to allow additional converter(s) to be connected in parallel or to disconnect some of them while conducting the load current.

GE Vernova provides a broad array of distribution transformers to support a variety of applications. Our product lines include pole- and pad-mounted, single- and three-phase solutions, as well as primary and secondary substation transformers, cast coil transformers network transformers and voltage regulators.

Distribution Transformers

Highly reliable, state-of-the-art distribution solutions

GE Vernova provides a broad array of distribution transformers to support a variety of applications. Our product lines include pole- and pad-mounted, single- and three-phase solutions, as well as primary and secondary substation transformers, cast coil transformers network transformers and voltage regulators.

Our broad array of distribution transformers are highly reliable, state-of-the-art distribution solutions with features that allow safe operation and easy maintenance. Explore more about our diverse offerings with the interactive apps below.

Distribution Pole-mount and Pad-mount Transformers

Prolec GE provides a complete line of distribution transformers ranging from single-phase pole-type distribution transformers to three-phase pad-mount transformers. Our manufacturing and design systems utilize state-of-the-art technology supported by our ISO-9001 certified processes and quality assurance programs.

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Single Phase Pole-Mounted Transformerers

Prolec GE designs and manufactures a complete line of single-phase pole-type distribution transformers for installation on utility overhead systems. These highly reliable and cost-effective transformers are available in a wide variety of ratings and accessory combinations to match your system requirements.

Key benefits
  • Ratings: 10 to 167 kVA, High Voltage up to 34.5 kV, 150 kV BIL
  • Conventional or Self-protected
  • Mineral or vegetable oil
  • Meets or exceeds RUS, NEMA and ANSI standards C57.12.00, ANSI C57.12.20 as applicable
  • Mild steel tank with welded lifting lugs and hanger brackets for direct-to-pole mounting
  • Single piece clamped cover band meets cover retention requirements of applicable ANSI standards
  • Electrostatically applied polyester powder paint system for superior corrosion protection
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Single Phase Pad-Mounted Transformers

Prolec GE manufactures a complete line of single-phase pad-mounted distribution transformers designed to provide the features, performance and aesthetics needed for modern underground residential applications.

Key benefits
  • Modern aesthetics for underground residential applications
  • Ratings: 10 to 167 kVA, up to 150 kV BIL
  • Maxipad and Minipad available
  • Mineral or vegetable oil
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Three Phase Pad-Mounted Transformer

Prolec GE offers a complete line of liquid-filled three-phase pad-mounted distribution transformers that meet applicable IEEE standards. These transformers are specifically designed for commercial and residential applications, such as hotels, hospitals, universities, and others. Our transformers are designed for outdoor installation with cabinets, use aluminum or copper windings, and are optimized to maximize efficiency and footprint.

Key benefits
  • Liquid-filled
  • Mineral or vegetable oil
  • Meets applicable ANSI/IEEE standards
  • Ratings: 45 kVA to 5000 kVA, to 34.5 kV, 200 kV BIL
  • Up to 4,000 kVA ONAN

Special Distribution Transformers

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Substation Transformers

GE Prolec’s distribution transformers are designed for the diverse mining, oil and gas and distribution markets of North America and international applications. Our distribution substation transformers are suited for real-world applications because we rely on extensive customer input and feedback to determine the ideal product testing and quality parameters. Prolec GE has extensive experience designing transformers for heavy duty mining applications such as crushing, grinding, floatation & refining/palletization. We deliver advanced performance under the most demanding operating conditions for offshore operations, exploration and production, as well as onshore operations, refining, petrochemical and storage.

Key benefits
  • Rating up to 7,500 kVA
  • Available in ranges from 225 kVA to 12000 kVA, to 69 kV, 200 kV BIL
  • Mineral, vegetable or synthetic oil
  • DETC
  • Outdoor and indoor designs
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Cast coil Transformers

GE Vernova’s cast coil transformer is a low-noise, low-loss, cast resin dry-type transformer. The high-voltage winding with copper conductors and the low-voltage winding with either copper conductors or copper sheet are wound and reinforced by glass-fiber and then cast with resin under vacuum.

Key benefits
  • 100% relative humidity operation
  • Excellent short-circuit
  • Cooled naturally by air (AN) and forced air cooling (AF)
  • Smaller dimensions, less weight, and space saving
  • Customizable designs
  • Windings have high mechanical strength and no partial discharge and are non-flammable
  • Environmental adaptability
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Multitap Transformers

The Prolec GE Multitap transformers provide flexible voltages and currents to Electric Submersible Pumps (ESP) used in in artificial lift extraction applications. These transformers winding conductors and insulation are made with high quality and reliable materials. This offering operates in highly corrosive and saline environments and responds to a growing industrial trend to deliver customized power to energy-intensive industries such as Oil & Gas.

Key benefits
  • Rating up to 540 kVA
  • HV up to 4,800 V, BIL up to 60 kV
  • Externally operated de-energized tap changer with 25 Taps)
  • Mineral oil
  • Short circuit withstand and robust design
  • Customizable capacity, voltage, dimensions, winding materials and fluid to fit special needs
  • Easy handling and installation with a base designed for forklift

Network Transformers & Voltage Regulators

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Network Transformer

GE Vernova's Safe-NET network transformers are the safest transformers available in the industry for secondary network applications. Safe-NET network transformers are available for subway and vault applications. The Safe-NET transformer is designed to supply power to the network bus and is capable of handling significant short-term overload conditions in this application. It also has one of the smallest foot prints and delivers more KVA per square inch compared to competing products. GE Vernova's exclusive transformer tank design features patented tank technology that minimizes the danger from a transformer rupture event, mitigating its impact to adjacent assets and public safety.

For more information, visit our network transformer product page here.

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Voltage Regulator

GE Vernova’s family of voltage regulators are cost effective, robust solutions to regulate voltage without comprising quality and reliability, providing a total cost of ownership that is nearly 20% better than competing products. The VR-1 regulator is designed to provide utilities with a means to protect themselves and their customer against the detrimental effects of voltage variation. Optimum regulation is achieved by controlling the voltage as close to a predetermined level as practical and is “Designed with the Utility in Mind”. GE Vernova’s voltage regulators comply with IEEE® C57.15-2009 and NEMA® 4, and are independently certified by KEMA® that the VR-1 meets the stringent Short-Circuit requirements in the IEEE standard. They can operate up to 2 million mechanical operations, providing years of reliable service without costly maintenance. Additionally, GE Vernova is one of the first to incorporate measured reverse power flow capability, which is critical on today’s distribution circuits where distributed generation is present.

For more information, visit our voltage regulator product page here.

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Engineered Solutions

Delivering comprehensive engineering and services to suit customers’ specific requirements.

Substation Systems
Substation Systems

GE Vernova’s substation automation systems offer a seamless and scalable solution for automating and providing visibility to power system networks.

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Software Tools

Turning data into usable information for operational decisions and fleet management.

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Cybersecurity

Making Your Critical Grid Infrastructure More Reliable And Secure. 

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Digital Substation

Focuses on converting binary status and analog measured data into digital data - reliably and seamlessly.

Ethernet Switches, Converters & Time Synchronization
Ethernet Switches, Converters & Time Synchronization

GE Vernova's family of secure and reliable switches, converters, and time synchronization devices. 

Managed Ethernet Switches
Managed PRP/HSR Redbox

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Teleprotection Signaling Systems

Gridcom DIP.net provides IEC 61860 teleprotection for transmission and distribution grids.

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Network Management Systems

GE Vernova's network management systems simplify the mangement and monitoring of Critical Infrastructure Communications products, including Sentinel, MDS, and Lentronics™.

Hardened Optical Networks
Hardened Optical Networks

Rugged telecommunications solutions provide T1/E1, SONET/SDH, MPLS (IP & TP), and Optical Transport Networking standards for transmission across Access, Aggregation and CORE networks.

Industrial Wireless
Industrial Wireless

MDS is an end-to-end industrial wireless communications provider enabling secure wireless networks from cellular LTE to a broad range of licensed & unlicensed spectrum solutions.

Wireless Licensed Solutions for Rail Communications

Power Line Carrier
Power Line Carrier

Universal PLC technology for building reliable and cost-effective networks using existing Power Lines.

Professional Services
Professional Services

Our range of services can be tailored to include a fully engineered, deployed, and supported system to meet application specific needs.

Enhanced Transformer Monitoring
Enhanced Transformer Monitoring

Coverage beyond DGA to enhance transformer knowledge and protection.

Multiple Gas Transformer
Multiple Gas Transformer

Precise and comprehensive on-line diagnostics when the consequences of outages are significant.

Primary Asset Monitoring
Primary Asset Monitoring

Advanced monitoring solutions for other primary assets besides transformers.

Single Gas Transformer
Single Gas Transformer

Cost effective monitoring for small and medium size transformers.

Software & Services
Software & Services

Turning data into usable information for operational decisions and fleet management.

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High Voltage Instrument Transformers

Comprehensive range up to 1,200 kV including Current Transformers, Magnetic Voltage Transformers, Combined Metering Units, Capacitor Voltage Transformer, GIS Voltage Transformers and Power Voltage Transformers.

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Line Traps

Line traps are a key component in power line carrier systems used for remote control signals, voice communication, remote metering & control.

Circuit Breaker Digital Solutions
Circuit Breaker Digital Solutions

Digital solutions providing advanced asset condition monitoring and control solutions to maximize asset life while lowering costs.

Dead Tank Circuit Breakers
Dead Tank Circuit Breakers

GE Vernova's dead tank circuit breakers are available for single or three pole operation, qualified to IEEE and IEC standards and available from 38 kV up to 550 kV.

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Generator Circuit Breakers

Flexible generator circuit breaker solutions for new and refurbished power plants up to 50,000 A and 1,500 MW.

HVDC Switches
HVDC Switches

GE Vernova's offers fast switches developed based on the highest standards of performance, ratings, user convenience and reliability for all HVDC applications up to 800 kV.

Hybrid Switchgear
Hybrid Switchgear

GE Vernova's HYpact is a hybrid, compact switchgear assembly designed for space and cost savings.

Live Tank Circuit Breakers
Live tank circuit breakers

Available in both single or three pole operated design and tested according to international standards, our live tank circuit breaker portfolio ranges from 36 kV up to 1,100 kV.

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Point-on-Wave Controllers

Point-on-Wave switching is a technique consisting in operating AC system switchgear / circuit-breaker at optimum time to reduce switching transients.

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Compact Switchgear

GE Vernova’s modular compact switchgear system combines a circuit breaker, disconnector and other equipment on a common frame.