GAS INSULATED

RING MAIN UNIT

SFA-RM up to 36kV

www.alfanar.com
Contents

1 - Introduction to SFA-RM 4
A. SFA-RM Solution 4
B. Key Features 4
C. Safety 4
2- SFA-RM in Power Grids 5
3 - Applications 6
4 - Operating Conditions and Standards 7
5 - SFA-RM Ranges and Dimensions 8
5.1 SFA-RM -SSB -25kA Extensible Indoor 8
5.2 SFA-RM -SSB -25kA Extensible Outdoor 9
5.3 SFA-RM -SSB -25kA Non Extensible Indoor 10
5.4 SFA-RM -SSB -25kA Non Extensible Outdoor 11
6- Technical Data Sheet 12
7- Main Components 13
7.1 Switch-Disconnector (with earthing switch) 14
7.2 Vacuum Circuit Breaker+ Disconnector with Earthing Switch Unit 15
7.3 Gas Pressure Indicator 16
7.4 Voltage Presence Indication System 16
7.5 Protection Relay 17
8- Accessories 18
9- Control Panel 20
10- MV Cables Connections 21
11- Side Extensions 22
12- Tank Manufacturing 23
13- Quality Management 24
14- Type Test 25
15- SFA-RM Smart 26
15.1 Overview 26
15.2 Features 27
15.3 SFA-RM, Main Components 27
16- Ordering 28
1- Introduction to SFA-RM

A - SFA-RM Solution

SFA-RM units are designed to supply reliable energy and protect electrical equipment in secondary distribution
networks up to 36 kV. SFA-RM units are the best solution for indoor/outdoor distribution substations as their compact
design makes them suitable for various network applications such as transformer substations, wind power plants,
industrial zones, etc. SFA-RM SF6 gas insulated units offer the following features.

B. Key Features.
• Compact design and type tested.
• High-level operator safety, high-level operation reliability.
• Lower filling SF6 gas pressure (1,1 bar, abs.), lower
minimum operating SF6 gas pressure (1,05 bar. abs.)
• Hermetically sealed pressure system, leakage rate less
than % 0.1 per year.
• Resistant to pollution, insensitive to humidity and altitude.
• Modular and compact type (extensible and non-extensible).
• Lower maintenance cost.
• Suitable for remote control and monitoring.
• Comply with relevant IEC and EN standards.
• Compact type RMU’s can be manufactured to be extensible
for either both sides or for only the left/right side.

C. Safety.
• The durable design withstands internal arc, providing
protection against thermal and dynamic effects.
• Ability to visually check the position of the Earthing
Switch (Close or Open) through the front pane surveillance
window.
• Consecutive interlocking systems prevent incorrect operation.
• Access to the cable compartment and fuse compartment is
only possible if the related earthing Earthing Switch/
Switches is in the earthed position.

4
2- SFA-RM in Power Grids
3- Applications

SFA-RM units are widely used in the following applications:

A - Infrastructure and buildings: ports, railway

stations, airports, hospitals, schools, hotels, malls,
commercial centers, holiday resorts, etc.

B - Industries: water, iron and steel, auto-

motive, oil and gas, etc.

C - Energy: wind power plants, solar power

plants, hydro power plants, secondary distribution
networks, transformer substations, etc.

D - Special applications: high air pollution

areas, high humidity areas, etc.

6
4- Operating Conditions and Standards

− SFA-RM has an embedded hermetically-sealed gas tank filled with SF6 gas having a lower filling SF6 gas
pressure (1,1 bar, abs.) and lower minimum operating SF6 gas pressure (1,05 bar. abs.).

− The expected lifetime of the product is more than 30 years with a leakage rate of less than 0.1 % per year.

− No maintenance or gas refilling is required during the lifetime of the SFA-RM.

− The main busbar and switching compartment has an IP 67 protection degree rating whereas the other sections
of indoor products are rated at IP 41 and the outdoor products are rated IP 54.
Operating conditions:
• Ambient temperature range from -25 °C to 55 °C
• Altitude range of (0-1000 m)*
• Maximum relative humidity of 100%

SFA-RM fully complies with the following IEC Standards used

under general operating conditions.

STANDARDS CLASSIFICATION
Partition PM

SFA-RM 36 IEC 62271-200 Loss of Service Contuinity LSC 2

Internal arc A (FLR) 25 kA-1 s

SWITCH-DISCONNECTOR IEC 62271-103 General purpose, M2, E3

CIRCUIT BREAKER IEC 62271-100 M2, E2 (for cable network)

DISCONNECTOR IEC 62271-102 M1, E0

EARTHING SWITCH IEC 62271-102 E2

VOLTAGE DETECTION SYSTEM IEC 61243-5 Voltage Presence Indicating System (VPIS)

PLUG-IN BUSHINGS IEC 50181 Outer cone plug-in bushing

*: For 1000+ m please contact alfanar

5- SFA-RM Ranges and Dimensions
• SFA-RM-SSB_25kA(EXTENSIBLE INDOOR)

8
• SFA-RM-SSB_25kA(EXTENSIBLE OUTDOOR)
• SFA-RM-SSB_25kA(NON EXTENSIBLE INDOOR)

10
• SFA-RM-SSB_25kA(NON EXTENSIBLE OUTDOOR)
6- Technical Data Sheet

Electrical characteristics
Manufacturer alfanar Electrical Systems

Type SFA-RM

Voltage (Ur) 36 kV

Insulation level
- power frequency withstand voltage (Ud) – common value 70 kVrms

- power frequency withstand voltage (Ud) – across the isolating distance 80 kVrms

- lightning impulse withstand voltage (Up) – common value 170 kVpeak

- lightning impulse withstand voltage (Up) – across the isolating distance 200 kVpeak

Frequency (fr) 50/60 Hz

Normal current (Ir) 630 A

Short-time withstand current for main (Ik) and earthing circuits (Ike) 25 kA

Peak withstand current for main (Ip) and earthing circuits (Ipe) 65 kA

Duration of short-circuit (tk – tke) 1s

Internal arc classification (IAC) (type of accessibility and classified sides) AFLR

Arc fault current (IA) 25 kA

Arc fault duration (tA) 1s

Partition class PM

Loss of Service Continuity category LSC 2

Degree of protection IP54

Type of application indoor/outdoor

Rated supply voltage of auxiliary and control circuits (Ua) DC 24 V

Type of neutral earthing Solidly earthed neutral

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7- Main Components

Compact SFA-RM units are an excellent solution for secondary distribution networks. The units cover all medium
voltage functions such as connection, supply and protection of MV equipment for different applications.

Standard Equipments
- 2 (two) feeders with Switch-disconnector:
• Switch-disconnector (three-positioned, open-closed-earthed)
• Integrated capacitive Voltage Presence Indicator System.
• Operating mechanism
• Interface C bushings

- 1 (one) pc feeder with Vacuum Circuit Breaker:

• Vacuum Circuit Breaker
• Disconnector with earthing switch
• Over current and earth fault relay
• Current transformer
• Integrated capacitive Voltage Presence Indicator System
• Operating mechanism
• Interface C bushings

- SF6 Gas Pressure Manometer

- Main Busbar, Earthing Bar
- Operating Handle
- Pad-locking facility

Optional Equipments
• SF6 Gas Pressure Manometer (hermetic and double contact)
• Remote OPENING and CLOSING operation with cable
SLD
• Motor + Gear Box

For Extensible Type Compacts RMU’s

• Extension Boots
• Extension Bar
• Screened Plug
7- Main Components

7.1 SWITCH-DISCONNECTOR (with earthing switch)

• Applied Standard: IEC 62271-103

• Three-phase, three positioned (OPEN-CLOSE-EARTHED)
• Load current is quenching in the SF6
• Electrical Endurance Class: E3
• Electrical Endurance Class: E2 (for earthing switch)
• Mechanical Endurance Class: M2

OPERATING MECHANISM OF THE SWITCH-DISCONNECTOR

• Stored energy operation
• Standard mechanism: Type M018
• Optional mechanism: Type M019
• Independent of the operator operation
• Comply to motor specifications

M018 Type Mechanism M019 Type Mechanism

• Opening and Closing operation takes place at one • Energy storage is performed by the operator using
stage. The position of the switch (closing, opening the Operating Handle or via geared motor
and earthing operation) is performed manually using (for motorized mechanism)
the Operating Handle. For motorized types,
Releasing of the energy is performed;
mentioned operation is performed via geared motor.
• By operator using push button (mechanically)
• By shunt coils (electrically)

14
7- Main Components

7.2 VACUUM CIRCUIT BREAKER+DISCONNECTOR WITH

EARTHING SWITCH UNIT

Vacuum Circuit Breaker.

• Applied Standard: IEC 62271-100
• Electrical Endurance Class: E2
• Mechanical Endurance Class: M1
Disconnector.
• Applied Standard: IEC 62271-102
• Three-phase, three positoned (OPEN-CLOSED-EARTHED)
• Mechanical Endurance Class: M2
Earthing Switch.
• Applied Standard: IEC 62271-102
• Electrical Endurance Class: E2

OPERATING MECHANISM OF THE VACUUM CIRCUIT BREAKER

• Operating mechanism is based on stored energy within a spring.
Storing of energy is provided with either a geared motor (electrically)
or with an operating handle (manually). Releasing of energy is conducted
using either the push button on the front panel (manually) or using a
shunt coil (electrically)
• During the Breaker closing operation , the closing spring charges both of
the spring of opening  and the spring of trip-coil
• Suitable for rapid re-closing
• Suitable for self-powered relay application

AUXILIARY SERVICE VOLTAGES

VOLTAGE*
Motor 220 VAC; 220 VDC; 110 VDC; 24 VDC; 48 VDC
Coil 24 VDC; 48 VDC: 110 VDC

*Contact alfanar if different service voltage is required.

7- Main Components

7.3 - Gas Pressure Indicator

Gas density is an important operating parameter for SF6 insulated MV equipment. If the required gas density is not
sufficient, safe operation cannot be guaranteed. On SFA-RM units, a gas pressure indicator is fitted to the tank to
provide a reliable warning indication against low gas levels. The gas pressure indicator shows the minimum pressure
for safe operation.

7.4 - Voltage Presence Indication System

All SFA-RM units are integrated with a voltage presence indication system. A voltage signal comes from the VPIS
through the voltage divider positioned in the cable entrance of bushings.

The VPIS can be used to check whether a voltage is present across the cables.

16
7- Main Components

7.5 - Protection Relay

Overcurrent Protection.
1- 50P/50N Function: Phase/Neutral Instantaneous Overcurrent

Time of operation is independent from the

current of operation flowing through the
relay, hence if the phase current increases
more than its determined 36kV
630A
value for an equal or greater amount of time 25KA/1S
than the specified value, then protection
function activates (trips) and does not reset 36kV
itself till the value of the phase drops below 630A
25KA/1S
the point of current pick-up.

The function activates at 100% of the preset

input, and deactivates at 95%, where the reset
is instantaneous.

The accuracy of the operating time is equal

to the present time plus a maximum of 30 ms.

2- 51P/51N Function: Phase/Neutral Time

Overcurrent Protection
A - Definite Time O/C Protection

If the option “Definite time” is selected for the curve setting. the unit operating time
is set by the parameter “Operating time” so as to trip the fault after a preset specific time setting.

If the unit operates with defined time, the function is activated at 100% of the set tap value,
and it deactivates at 95%. If the unit operates with a curve, the function is activated at 110% of
the set pick-up value, and it deactivates at 100%. The reset is instantaneous in both cases. The
activation time is accurate to ±5% or ±30ms, whichever is greater, of the theoretical activation
time. The curves used are IEC 60255-151.

B - Inverse Time O/C Protection (IDMT)

If a curve (e.g. inverse, very inverse or extremely inverse) is selected for the curve setting, the
operating time principally depends on the current value which is set through the curve type, and
dial and tap settings.
8- Accessories

8.1 - Operating Handles

In SFA-RM units, there are two operating handles; the first one is for the operation of the load break switch and the
second is for charging the spring of vacuum circuit breaker. The design of the operating handles enables a safe and
easy operation for the user.

Switch Disconnector & Disconnector Operating Handle Circuit Breaker Spring Charging Handle

8.2 - IR / PD Windows
The SFA-RMU can be optionally equipped with IR & PD windows,
a new feature that complies with the new requirements of the Saudi
Electric Company.

The inclusion of an infrared inspection window is considered a very

effective method for maintenance personnel to identify any possible
problems with loose electrical terminations without the need to shut down
the RMU. The window consists of polymer and mesh optics to allow
thermal infrared inspection by employing broadband media.

The inclusion of a partial discharge window is to facilitate the ability to

measure partial discharge of a live RMU and estimate the expected life of
insulation components.

8.3 - Motorization Kit ( LBS / VCB )

Motors with gearboxes can easily be installed to load break
switch and circuit breaker mechanisms either in the factory
or on-site. A built-in electrical interlocking system prevents
any unintentional operations.

When the unit is installed with the motor mechanism, it can

be used with intelligent systems such as SCADA, DAS, etc.
With the help of a selector switch, SFA-RM units can be
controlled remotely by choosing the remote control option.
Motor with Gearbox

18
8- Accessories

8.4- Earth Fault Indicator (EFI)

EFI can also be implemented in SFA-RM units. EFIs help the
operator to easily find the fault location in medium voltage
ring networks.

Earth fault is indicated with a LED flashlight and a flag when

asymmetrical currents are detected in three phase cables.

EFI is fed via either auxiliary supply with internal batteries or a

core balance current transformer.
EFI

8.5- Operation Counter for Load Break Switch Mechanism

In SFA-RM units, implementation of an operation counter for mechanical operation of load break switches is
available as an option.

8.6 - CVI Auxiliary Contacts

To automate voltage indication in SFA-RM units auxiliary
contacts could be integrated with CVI units.
This feature makes it suitable for SFA-RM to accommodate

Absence of voltage applications

· Automation on voltage loss
· Alarms on voltage loss
· Automatic transfer systems CVI Auxiliary Contacts
Presence of voltage applications
· Earth locking on presence on voltage
· Alarms on voltage presence

8.7 - Gas Pressure Indicator with Contacts

As an optional feature a gas pressure indicator with electrical switch
contacts can be implemented.

The gas pressure indicator warns the operator when the gas density
drops below the defined “alarm” level, and can block the operation.

Gas Pressure Indicator

9- Control Panels

9.1 FOR CUBICLE WITH SWITCH-DISCONNECTOR

1. Position indicator for switch-disconnector 3

2. Operating Handle Slot for switch-disconnector

3. Operating Handle Slot for earthing switch
6
4. Push Button for closing operation of switch disconnector 7

(mechanically) 2
5 1

5. Push Button for opening operation of switch disconnector

(mechanically)
4
6. “Spring Charged” or “Spring Discharged” indicator for 8

switch-disconnector
7. Pad-locking 7

8. Position indicator for earthing switch

9
9. Surviallance window (for earthing switch contact position)

9.2 FOR CUBICLE WITH VACUUM CIRCUITBREAKER

1. Position indicator for circuit breaker

2. Operating handle shaft for charging spring
3. Operating handle shaft for disconnector
8
4. Operating handle shaft for earthing switch

5. Thump knot for OPENING and CLOSING 7

5
6. “Spring Charged” or “Spring Discharged” indicator for
1
switch disconnector 11 6
2
7. SF6 Gas Manometer
8. Padlocking
9. Position indicator for earthing switch
4
10. Surviallance window (for earthing switch contact position)
8
11. Voltage Presence Indicator 3
12. Position indicator for disconnector
9 12

10

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10- MV Cables Connections
Cables Connections of the SFA-RM.36 is done in the Cables Connections Compartment which is located at the front
of the cubicle using Separable Cable Connectors.

Separable Connector Type “L”

Contact Type: Bolted

Rated Current: 630 A
Interface: C

Separable Connector Type “T”

Contact Type: Bolted

Rated Current: 630 A
Interface: C

WARNING!
1. Separable Connectors should have type test reports/certificates according to the related standards.
2. Manufacturer’s installation instructions must be followed.
3. Metal screen of the HV cable should be connected to the earthing bar of the cubicle.
11- Side Extensions

alfanar SFA-RM can be extended from both ends through extension boots. the extensions can be done by
the enduser without affecting the SF6 gas insulation.

Extension kit equipment:

• Extension Boots
• Extension Bar
• Screened Plug
The extension kit withstands the rated voltage and rated short-time withstand current of the cubicles.

Extension Boots Screened Plug

22
12- Tank Manufacturing

Stainless steel tank, filled with SF6 gas, is sealed to the atmosphere using the “Sealed Pressure” method.
A gas tightness test is performed on every unit as a routine test. Helium is used as a tracer gas during the leakage test.
Leakage test and SF6 gas filling are fulfilled inside the vacuum chamber.
SFA-RM RMU’s have an expected life of more than 30 years.

Welding robots are used to weld the stainless steel tanks. Using this method, production flaws caused by human error
are minimized.
13- Quality Management
SFA-RM units are produced with an integrated quality system carefully defined for all departments. During each
stage of the manufacturing process we ensure that the SFA-RM units are built perfectly and comply with the
highest adherence standards. The SFA quality system is ISO 9001:2015 Certified.

Routine Test

Every SFA-RM unit undergoes routine quality tests and intensive related IEC Standards checks to ensure the
highest quality product. These tests are:

1- Sealing check
2- Gas filling pressure check
3- Opening/Closing speed check
4- Tightness test
5- Rotational torque measurement
6- Partial discharge test
7- Dielectric test
8- Conformity with drawings and diagrams check
9- Resistance measurement

The Quality Control Department prepares a test quality certificate for each unit and records the results for
future accessibility and quality assurance.

24
14- Type Test

SFA - RM has undergone all the tests required by the international (IEC) Standards in a CESI lab. The tests were carried
out on SFA - RM units considered most sensitive to the effects of the tests and therefore the results were extended
across the whole range.

1. Impulse withstand-voltage tests

2. Power frequency withstand-voltage tests
3. Temperature-rise tests
4. Short time current tests
5. Verification of making and breaking capacity
6. Mechanical endurance/operation tests
7. Verification of degrees of protection for persons against contact with live and moving parts
8. Internal arc tests
26
15- SFA-RM - Smart

15.1-Overview

new SFA RM is designed for supplying sustainable energy, protecting electrical equipment in secondary
distribution networks up to 36 kV.

Rated Short Time Withstand Current 25 kA / 1 Sec

Internal Arc Classification A (FLR) 25kA / 1 Sec (indoor & outdoor)

Relative Humidity 100%

IP Class (Gas Tank / Indoor / Outdoor) IP 67/ IP41 / IP54

IEC 62271-100
IEC 62271-200
Applied Standard IEC 62271-103
IEC 62271-102
IEC 62271-1

15.2-Features

• Self-power RMU • Smart interlocking with padlocking system for
• 3G/4G Communication , VPN Security “IPsec” maximum operator safety
• IEC60870-5-104/101 and DNP3 • Different feeder combinations with switch
• Accurate measurements for voltage and current disconnector and vacuum circuit breaker
in all switching elements • High resistance to pollution and humidity
• Switching units sealed in SF6 gas filled stainless • Compact design up to 36 kV
steel tank • CESI type tested
• High level of operator safety and operating reliability
• Maintenance free unit offering life expectation of
over 30 years

28
15.3 -Smart SFA-RM, Main Component

a) ZIV-TCA/D (RTU with built-in directional Fault Passage Indicator)

Key Features of ZIV-TCA/D

1 - Powerful programmable logic engine.
2 - 2500 event log and five Fault Registers (TCA-D/E 4000).
3 - Oscillography recorder (five COMTRADE files and a sampling rate of 7200 Hz).
4 - Diagnosis and Maintenance WebUI.
5 - TCA-D/E:
- Up to 5 FPI functions per IED.
- Up to 64 digital inputs.
- 16 configurable digital outputs for alarm signalling or LBS control commands.
- 24 analogue channels.
- Voltage measurement supported directly in busbar or installed in feeder bushings.
- 4000 event logger and oscillography recorder function (sample rate 4800 Hz).
- Fault Isolation Automatism (FIA).
- Cybersecurity: authentication and encryption

b) Power supply and batteries:

The proposed Smart RMU a self-powered unit, the supplied power comes from the CPT (Control Power
Transformer) connected directly to the live bus and provides the LV circuit with 220VAC.

All the equipment such as aux relays, RTU, modem, and trip close motor coils are operated by a 24VDC which
comes from a AC/DC converter capable of providing sufficient power. This unit has a battery system to ensure
sustainability of the power supply.

c) ZIV-IRS (Self-Powered Overcurrent Protection)

Where a dependable auxiliary power source is not
available, the IRS Relay can be energized either
directly from Main Current Transformers, AC/DC
Auxiliary Voltage or through the USB Front Port.
16- Ordering

Load
Unit Voltage Ingress Circuit Motor Tee-off Load Tee-off Load
Extensibility Break
Configuration System Protection Breaker Kit Rating 1 Rating 2
Switch

30
16- Ordering

Load
Unit Voltage Ingress Circuit Motor Tee-off Load Tee-off Load
Extensibility Break
Configuration System Protection Breaker Kit Rating 1 Rating 2
Switch
Notes
Notes
Notes
Notes
For catalogue soft copy scan QR code MKT_127335_SFA_May20_01

www.alfanar.com