The Hubbell 200A 15kV Loadbreak Bushing Insert is essentially the same type of component as the 35kV version, but designed for 15,000-volt class electrical distribution systems. It serves the same critical purpose of providing a safe, separable, fully shielded, and submersible connection for underground cables to apparatus
Key Difference from 35kV Loadbreak Bushing Inserts:
The primary difference is their voltage rating and associated insulation levels. A 15kV insert is physically smaller and has less insulation than a 35kV insert because it’s designed to handle lower voltage stresses. The “kV Class” directly dictates the dielectric strength requirements, including BIL, AC withstand, and corona extinction levels. They are not interchangeable; a 15kV component cannot be used in a 35kV system.
In summary, the Hubbell 200A 15kV Loadbreak Bushing Insert is a foundational component for safely and flexibly connecting and operating medium-voltage underground electrical distribution systems within the 15kV class.
- Voltage Rating: 15 kV class. This means it’s suitable for systems with a nominal voltage up to 15,000 volts. Typical maximum operating voltage (phase-to-ground) for this class might be around 8.3 kV.
- Current Rating: 200 Amperes continuous, with fault-close and switching ratings for temporary overcurrents.
- Material: High-quality, peroxide-cured EPDM rubber for excellent dielectric and mechanical properties.
- Interface Standards: Meets or exceeds IEEE Standard 386 (Standard for Separable Insulated Connectors Systems) and often IEEE Std 592 (for Exposed Semiconducting Shields). This ensures interchangeability with other compliant manufacturers’ products.
- Construction: Similar construction to the 35kV version, including threaded connection, semiconducting shield, drain wire tab, finger contacts, locking groove, and a hex broach for installation.
- Electrical Withstand Ratings: The specific AC withstand voltage (1 minute) and Basic Impulse Level (BIL) will be lower than a 35kV insert, appropriate for its voltage class. For a 15kV class, the BIL is typically 95 kV, and the 1-minute AC withstand is around 34 kV. Corona extinction (3pC) is typically 11 kV.
Hubbell 200A 15kV Loadbreak Bushing Inserts are widely used in:
- Residential and Commercial Underground Distribution: Connecting single-phase and three-phase underground cables to pad-mounted transformers, typically found in neighborhoods and commercial complexes.
- Medium Voltage Switchgear: For connections within sectionalizing cabinets and other switchgear components in 15kV networks.
- Industrial Facilities: Providing reliable and accessible connection points for power in industrial settings using underground distribution.
- Loadbreak Capability: Like its 35kV counterpart, it allows for safe interruption and establishment of current (up to 200 Amperes) while energized, using a hotstick. This enables linemen to switch or isolate equipment without de-energizing the entire circuit.
- Interface with Bushing Well: It threads into a standard 200A bushing well, which is affixed to the equipment (e.g., transformer, switchgear).
- Mating with Loadbreak Elbow: It forms a complete, insulated connection when a compatible 200A 15kV loadbreak elbow connector (attached to an underground cable) is plugged into it.
- Flexibility and Field Serviceability: The two-piece design allows for easy replacement of the insert if damaged, without needing to replace the entire apparatus bushing.
- Fully Shielded and Submersible: Manufactured from EPDM rubber, it’s designed to be “dead-front” (no exposed live parts when connected) and can operate reliably in submerged conditions.
