Specifications

37
Industrial Applications
Voltage Classes The power distribution equipment discussed thus far is often
referred to as low voltage equipment, but there are different
definitions for low voltage and other voltage classes. For the
purposes of this discussion of power distribution equipment,
low voltage (LV) systems operate at 1000 volts (1 kV) or less
and medium voltage (MV) systems generally operate between
1000 and 38,000 volts (1 to 38 kV).
The power requirements of many industrial facilities can be
accommodated using only LV systems. In many instances,
however, MV equipment, especially at the service entrance,
is required. Electric utilities, which must provide power to
customers of various types, use transmission systems that
operate in the high voltage or extra high voltage range, but it is
beyond the scope of this course to discuss these systems.
Within the United States, Siemens products and services are
provided by a number of operating companies, including
Siemens Industry, Inc. (SII). Each operating company provides
the products and services needed for its customer base. The
Siemens operating company that supplies power generation,
transmission, and high-voltage distribution equipment and
services to electrical utilities is appropriately named Siemens
Energy.
Because many industrial, and some commercial and
institutional, customers served by SII also have significant
power distribution needs, SII sells a variety of products such as:
power transformers, surge arresters, instrument transformers,
protective relays, substation automation, and MV switchgear, As
important as these products are, it is not within the scope of this
course to cover all these systems. It is worthwhile, however, to
briefly discuss MV switchgear.