COURSE OVERVIEW:

Circuit breakers and switchgears are the fundamental building blocks of electrical power distribution, acting as both the control point and the protective barrier for the network. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and construction of these devices, focusing on how they function to safely energize and de-energize circuits. Participants will explore the basic physics of arc formation and the mechanical engineering required to separate high-voltage contacts under load and fault conditions.

The scope of this training encompasses the physical construction of various types of switchgear, including indoor metal-clad units and outdoor substation layouts. It covers the primary components—such as busbars, insulators, and circuit breaker elements—and explains the technical differences between air, oil, vacuum, and SF6 insulation media. The curriculum focuses on the structural integrity and interlocking logic that ensure personnel safety during operation, providing a solid foundation for understanding how switchgear assemblies are manufactured and assembled.

Coverage includes the classification of circuit breakers based on their duty and medium, as well as the fundamental ratings found on equipment nameplates. Attendees will learn to identify the auxiliary systems that support the main breaker, including current transformers, voltage transformers, and the DC control supply. By focusing on the "how and why" of switchgear construction, the course ensures that technicians and engineers can correctly interpret equipment specifications and perform basic operational tasks with a clear understanding of the machine's internal logic and safety features.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:

• Describe the fundamental purpose of circuit breakers in a power system.
• Identify the primary components of an MV switchgear cubicle.
• Explain the principles of arc formation and extinction.
• Distinguish between Air, Vacuum, and SF6 switching technologies.
• Interpret switchgear nameplate ratings, including voltage and breaking capacity.
• Describe the function of busbars and their supporting insulators.
• Understand the mechanical interlocking requirements for safe operation.
• Identify the role of Current Transformers (CTs) and Voltage Transformers (VTs).
• Explain the operation of the circuit breaker’s charging and tripping mechanism.
• Describe the construction of withdrawable versus fixed circuit breakers.
• Understand the importance of earthing switches and grounding circuits.
• Recognize the different types of switchgear enclosures and their IP ratings.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This course is intended for Junior Electrical Engineers, Electricians, Plant Operators, and Technical Sales Personnel who require a solid understanding of switchgear construction and principles.

TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:

A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximize the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.

The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.

COURSE CERTIFICATE:

National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.