Go Direct! DC-ready with Siemens.

Ultra-fast, arc-free switching & protection

Safe switching off is more challenging with direct current than alternating current, where current zero crossing helps extinguish arcs. For conventional electromechanical protection devices, high inrush currents or arcing caused by overvoltage, short circuits, or ground faults in DC applications are difficult to detect and extinguish. The SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker (SCCB), developed specifically for DC grids, addresses precisely these challenges: It detects faults in the DC grid extremely quickly and trips a thousand times faster than conventional electromechanical switches.

The innovative semiconductor circuit breaker combines the functional density of multiple components into a single device, thereby enabling both fault detection and current interruption. And it does so entirely electronically. An integrated measuring system continuously monitors load current and voltage in the DC grid. If limits are exceeded, fault detection occurs in nanoseconds – and the shutdown via semiconductors takes place in microseconds and is arc-free, since no mechanical contacts are opened for this purpose. This immediately limits fault currents, protects components, systems, and energy sources, and ensures maximum operational safety and personal protection.

In addition, the SCCB can deliver real-time diagnostic data to higher-level systems via Modbus TCP and PROFINET – enabling predictive maintenance as well as significantly increased safety and transparency of the DC grid.

SIVACON S8 low-voltage switchboard

With the SIVACON S8 switchboard for DC applications, you benefit throughout the entire project lifecycle – from efficient planning to smart and flexible operation. Its compact cubicle design, modular concept, and high packing density enable appropriate power distribution for both energy-intensive industries and the AI industry.

Thanks to bidirectional power flow, energy storage systems (BESS) can be efficiently integrated. The integrated SIMARIS control diagnostics station supports predictive maintenance through transparent power flows and condition monitoring.

The SIVACON S8 switchboard and its connection to the SIVACON 8PS busbar trunking system are design-verified in accordance with IEC 61439-1/-2. In addition, the switchboard meets environmental criteria under the Siemens EcoTech label.

SIVACON 8PS – LD busbar trunking system

The SIVACON 8PS – LD system takes power transmission and distribution in DC applications to a new level of performance. The smart busbar trunking system offers greater efficiency and convenience throughout the entire lifecycle, from planning and installation to operation and expansion of the power supply, as well as a high degree of adaptability to new usage concepts.

Thanks to the SIMARIS busbarplan planning tool, BIM-compliant 3D-busbar runs can be created as the digital twin of the system – quickly and easily. The design-verified busbar trunking system (in accordance with IEC 61439-1/-6) is also quick and easy to install. Using so-called energy units with the appropriate switching and protection devices makes it easy to tap and route the direct current bidirectionally to the consumers.

Beyond operational efficiency and flexibility, the SIVACON 8PS – LD system also delivers clear sustainability benefits. Sustainability means not only long service life and reusability, but also, for example, easy recycling that saves valuable resources.

What is the difference between an AC tap-off unit and a DC energy unit?

Both variants are plugged into a busbar system. An energy unit is adapted to the needs of DC operation: The components used are DC-compatible, the energy unit is intended for bidirectional operation and coding prevents plugging into an AC system.

Can a standard LD system be used for DC operation?

There are many components that can be used universally for AC and DC. However, feeder-units, outlets and tap-off points are specially designed in a DC system and are marked as a DC component.

What are the advantages of an air-insulated LD system over other busbar trunking systems?

The larger distances between the conductor-bars result in technical advantages: The capacity values of the system are lower, which is advantageous for switching operations. The electric field is reduced and thus puts far less strain on the insulation than with sandwich constructions, which can be particularly decisive during voltage peaks.