Pad-Mounted Transformer Remote Switching Mechanisms for Arc Flash Safety

RSK-PMT

The RSK-PMT remote switch kit (RSK) for pad-mounted transformers (PMT) provides remote switching operations for PMTs in applications such as wind farms, facilities management, solar, and utility distribution. The RSK-PMT platform provides arc flash safety for closed door and open door transformer switching operations.

RSK-PMT with CDS option

The closed door switching (CDS) accessory package allows for remote operations without the need to open the transformer doors for switching tasks. Equipment for closed-door operations includes the RSA-216 remote switch actuator, the RSO-IV-M18 remote switch operator with a 12-foot cable or optional radio remote, an exterior-mounted auxiliary enclosure with an interior alignment tube, and a 2-inch fiberglass hot stick for interfacing the switch adapter and RSA-216 actuator handle.

An auxiliary door enclosure is installed by boring a 2.5 inch hole aligned with the switch position in the PMT. An interior guiding pipe spans roughly 10 inches from the door to ensure the insulated hot stick aligns with the transformer switch and remains steady during operation.

The RSA (actuator) is magnetically mounted over the box and the exterior door enclosure and interfaces with the insulated hot stick adapter to operate the interior switch. The RSK-PMT actuator for the CDS package incorporates two magnets to handle increased torque requirements during operation.

The CBS ArcSafe RSK-PMT system is used in conjunction with U.S. Patent 11,646,168 B2 shown in the photos herein.

RSK-PMT installed on wind farm transformer

RSK-PMT Closed Door Switching Components

Fiberglass hot stick

Customizable Switch Adapters

Switch-side adapter

Actuator-side adapter

Enclosure and Guiding Pipe

Actuator (RSA-216) Specs:

Operation: Close/Trip (2 Position Switches)
Weight: 17.1 lbs.
Dimensions: 14.6” x 7.2” x 8.0”
Controller: RSO-IV-M18

Auxiliary Enclosure Specs:

Front Dimensions: 6.0” x 6.0”
Alignment Tube Length: 10.0”
Portal Diameter: 2.40”

Hot Stick Specs:

Material: Isophthalic Polyester Fire Retardant Resin (ISOFR) Fiberglass
Diameter: 2.0”
Length: Varies per transformer application
Adapter Heads: Aluminum
Max Temp: 150 F
Min Temp: -100 F
Tensile Strength: 30k psi

RSO (Remote Switch Operator) Specs:

Battery Type: 18 V Milwaukee M18 Lithium Ion
Battery Life:
5.0 amp-hours
Output Voltage:
24 VDC
Enclosure Rating:
Dust-proof (IP6X)
Enclosure Material:
NK-7 high impact polypropylene

Wireless Controller:

Max Operation Distance: 300 ft. (line of sight)
Frequency: Direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) technology
Operating Temp: -4˚F to 131˚F
Transmitter Power: +3.6V to +4.5V
Power Source: 3 AAA batteries
Auto Shutdown: 4 minutes
Indicators: Green / Red / Amber (Transmit / Receive / Link)
Low Battery Warning: 3.1V and below
Transmitter Weight: 7.2 oz
Transmitter Size: 5.37”H x 2.68”W x 0.92”D
Transmit button life: 5 million operations

RSK-PMT Open Door System

RSK-PMT open door switching allows technicians to operate 2-position PMT switches from a safe distance. Installation and operation typically do not require any modifications to existing electrical equipment. The design allows the unit to be portable and compatible across multiple OEMs. CBS ArcSafe can also design a custom solution to operate your transformer.

The RSA-216 2-position actuator is ideal for tight spaces with small footprints. It is easy to align the actuator with the racking switch and mount it with strong magnets. Connect the RSO-IV-M18 remote switch operator to open and close the transformer from outside the arc flash boundary.

An RSA-216 4-position actuator supports loop feed transformers. The device can make four 90-degree rotations, be configured to travel past 90 degrees by any amount and return to the 90-degree position, or can be custom programmed at the factory to suit your specific transformer.

Interested in Learning More About Our Remote Switch Kit for Pad Mount Transformers?