Understanding Switchgear
Switchgear is a critical infrastructure component of Level 3 EV charging stations (also known as DC Fast charging stations). Traditional switchgear is composed of electrical panels that are tasked with receiving, distributing, and protecting the site’s equipment and wiring. These panels typically come from different manufacturers and require engineering design, permits, on-site wiring, and installation.
The panels included in a traditional switchgear are:
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Power Disconnect Panel: Receives 480 VAC utility power and provides power disconnect to isolate the site. May include circuit breaker fault protection.
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Current Transformer (CT) Cabinet: Utility-managed cabinet housing CTs (1 per phase) which measure current usage.
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Utility Meter: Displays current usage measured by CTs for utility billing.
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Distribution Panel: Divides incoming utility power into downstream circuits while providing breaker protection for each circuit.
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Distribution Panel (Low Voltage): Divides low voltage power from the transformer into downstream circuits while providing breaker protection for each circuit.
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Transformer: Converts 480 VAC power to 120/240 VAC to supply lower voltage site equipment.
What makes NexPhase™ Different?
The NexPhase™ Smart EV Switchgear consolidates all of the electrical switchgear components into a single, pre-wired footprint. NexPhase™ provides an integrated, single cabinet, ready-to-install solution to minimize the complexity and effort required to install switchgear that fulfills NEVI requirements. This all-in-one, turnkey switchgear solution contains the entire electrical infrastructure required between the utility service and Level 3 DC fast chargers. NexPhase™ also features cutting-edge grid intelligence to help EV charging station owners and operators remotely monitor, troubleshoot, and control their EV charger infrastructure.
What separates NexPhase™ from a traditional switchgear?
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Turnkey Solution
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On-Board Power/Health Monitoring of Utility Power, Switchgear, and EV Chargers
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Integrated 4G/LTE Cellular Modem Communication
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Remote Web Interface for Monitoring, Control, & Reporting
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Remote EV Charger Power Cycling
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Streamlined Installation
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E-Stop Integration Capable
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EV Charger Crash Detection / Flammable Vapor Monitoring Capable
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Integrated Pest & Rodent Intrusion Mitigation
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Flood Detection with Automated Shutdown
Why are these additional capabilities important?
Intelligence paired with a transformative design gives NexPhase™ the ability to increase the resiliency of your chargers, help achieve greater uptimes, and support the rapid deployment of your growing EV charger network. Learn how NexPhase™ can enable rapid deployment of EV charging stations and help you fast-track your DC fast charger rollout initiatives.
For an in depth look at the NexPhase™, continue reading:
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