Application examples
Application: ‘Off-the-grid’
Location: United Sates
In the face of natural disasters, our customer had an urgent need for a reliable solution to meet remote energy demands. This included a system that would support in providing emergency power supplies for critical mobile and temporary infrastructure such as medical facilities, communication hubs, lighting systems in shelters and on roads, and water purification systems. The system needed to be robust, highly flexible, and modular to adapt to varying electrical and power requirements. Additionally, it had to be expandable without the need for tools, ensuring quick and efficient deployment in emergency situations.
To address these challenges, we proposed a custom Modular Busbar System (MDBS) paired with our AR series hydraulic-magnetic circuit breakers. The MDBS offers exceptional performance and flexibility, allowing devices and components to be snapped on and off under voltage without the need for additional tools. Its compact size makes it ideal for various applications. Power is supplied to the circuit breakers using Eaton’s innovative bus system, eliminating the need for individual wiring or complicated buswork. This streamlined approach ensures a reliable and efficient power distribution solution.
The modular nature of the MDBS allows customers to modify their Power Distribution Units (PDUs) with as many modules as needed, tailored to their specific power distribution requirements, all without the need for tools. The solution was rigorously validated by the customer and successfully used in desert operations, where temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day. Despite these harsh conditions, the system performed flawlessly, providing uninterrupted power, and preventing unexpected circuit interruptions. This CPS combined with MDBS’s reliability, flexibility, and ease of use, makes it an ideal solution for emergency power needs in challenging environments.
Challenge
A tramway operator aimed to enhance operational efficiencies by reducing the weight of their trams. This weight reduction was expected to lower energy consumption, boost profitability, and support their sustainability goals. After thoroughly analyzing the tram’s design and components to identify areas where weight could be saved without compromising safety or performance, they decided to kickstart this initiative by focusing on optimizing the critical functions of the trams.
Solution
Eaton proposed developing a custom-made panel solution to replace thermal-magnetic circuit breakers with hydraulic-magnetic breakers (HMCBs). Since HMCBs are not affected by the heat generated in the electrical panel, smaller breakers with less wiring can be used instead of the previous solution. Our GJ series was an ideal choice and was paired with our Remote Breaker Reset (RBR) system, allowing remote management and saving horizontal space by aligning with the placement of the breakers. Additionally, a Pulse box (PPC) was added to control the RBR in case a breaker trips unexpectedly.
Results
With a proven track record of safety and reliability, Eaton’s GJ series hydraulic-magnetic breakers, coupled with the Remote Breaker Reset (RBR) system, have achieved remarkable improvements. This innovative solution resulted in a weight reduction of over 30% and a volume decrease of 75% compared to the previous setup. These significant reductions were also possible thanks to the optimized placement of the electrical panel, which now requires fewer interventions and maintenance efforts as it can be managed remotely.
The tram manufacturer and operator have recognized the benefits of this advanced solution and have approved the Eaton Heinemann system for deployment across their entire tram network in multiple cities throughout France
Application: Public Transport
Location: France
Application: Rail
Location: France
Challenge
A train operator aimed to boost profitability by increasing the seating capacity of their coaches. This objective needed to be met without compromising on passenger comfort or safety. Additionally, the client required that the control over the electrical protection cabinets remain as effective and reliable as before.
Solution
To tackle this challenge, we introduced our JS series in conjunction with our Remote Breaker Reset (RBR) system. This powerful combination allowed the electrical cabinet to be relocated from inside the coach to an external position. This relocation freed up valuable space inside the coach, as the system offers full remote-control capabilities by having the ability to trigger and reset the electrical system.
Results
By optimizing the placement of the electrical cabinet, the customer was able to create space for two additional seats in each coach. This adjustment led to substantial financial gains. For an 8-car train configuration, the addition of these seats resulted in an impressive $500,000 USD increase in annual revenue for the operator. Furthermore, with the ability to manage breakers remotely, the need for manual interventions was reduced, significantly decreasing downtime and enhancing maintenance efficiency.
Challenge
A telecom provider needed a reliable power distribution unit (PDU) that could be used for temporary electrical installations in concerts, festivals, and other outdoors events. The solution had to be resistant to various weather conditions and provide robust electrical protection. Additionally, the unit needed to be easy to connect, compact, and flexible, ensuring the protection of electrical equipment used during outdoor events such as lighting and speakers.
Solution
Since none of the ‘off-the-shelf’ solutions worked for them, we developed a high-density, customized Power Distribution Unit (PDU) featuring twelve independent circuits protected with AR series breakers. These breakers were designed for fast swapping and were powered by two redundant feeds. The PDU was engineered with all connections accessible from the front and included two alarms, all housed in a very compact 1U, 19” low-depth, robust, and corrosion-free metal enclosure. This design ensured the unit’s durability and reliability in various weather conditions.
Results
The success and advantages of this innovative design led the customer to expand its use beyond temporary installations. The telecom provider decided to upgrade their fixed radio base stations on streets with this PDU, benefiting from its reliability, ease of connection, and robust protection in all weather conditions. This decision underscored the PDU’s versatility and effectiveness in both temporary and permanent applications.
Application: Entertainment/Telecom
Location: Belgium
Application: Mining
Location: Sweden
Challenge
The customer faced significant machine downtime due to maintenance and unnecessary nuisance tripping from using standard miniature circuit breakers. These issues were primarily caused by shocks and vibrations, which are common in trucks and loaders during the loading/unloading process and high-speed driving through mining rock piles. This downtime not only affected productivity but also increased operational costs.
Solution
To address this challenge, the customer required a turnkey solution that would minimize switching costs and ensure easy installation. Our ADS series, with its option to be configured with a DIN rail mount, perfectly matched the client’s requirements. The ADS series provided a robust and reliable alternative to standard miniature circuit breakers, capable of withstanding the harsh conditions and vibrations encountered in mining operations.
Results
The implementation of Heinemann HMCBs offered superior technology over standard miniature circuit breakers for this application. The combination of HMCB’s advanced features and the DIN rail mounting capabilities resulted in significantly lower switching costs for the customer. This successful integration not only reduced machine downtime but also encouraged the customer to upgrade their entire fleet with Heinemann HMCBs. The enhanced reliability and ease of installation provided by our solution led to improved operational efficiency and reduced maintenance costs, ultimately boosting the customer’s overall productivity and profitability.
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