DC circuit breaker

DC power distribution is key to making shipping and marine vessels more sustainable, reportedly improving fuel efficiency by up to 20% over AC (alternating current) systems. ABB’s new SACE Infinitus circuit breaker has been designed to make it simpler to integrate, protect and control these new DC networks for ships of all types and sizes.

“DC networks deliver significant energy savings and fuel cost reductions, and with the launch of SACE Infinitus we can provide marine operators with the ultimate power protection they need to introduce DC safely and efficiently into their vessels,” said Thorsten Strassel, global product manager, solid state circuit breaker, ABB.

“Renewables, battery storage and smart grids are integral to making the marine and shipping industry more sustainable,” he added.

SACE Infinitus is marketed as the world’s first IEC 60947-2 certified circuit breaker with semiconductor technology, optimised for low losses and providing an all-in-one device for DC power protection and control. The device will be available with DNV certification for low voltage maritime applications.

The circuit breaker is said to detect faults 100 times faster than traditional mechanical circuit breakers, interrupting faulty currents without an electric arc, reducing arc flash risk to almost zero. The new technology also gives the device an ultra-long electrical life; a reported 100 times longer than standard circuit breakers.

Fitting in standard 600mm electrical cabinets and integrating with ABB’s Ekip and EPIC software tools, device features include protection, switching, isolator, energy meter, network analyser and a smart connectivity module.

The SACE Infinitus is also suitable for other DC distribution applications such as on industrial sites, in commercial buildings and for electric vehicle charging.