.png)
Key Summary
Low voltage (LV) switchboards in Malaysia face frequent tripping, causing power outages and disruptions.
Frequent thunderstorms and electrical storms lead to voltage spikes and surges, damaging equipment.
Surge protection devices. (Type 1 SPDs) at entry points reduce tripping by diverting excess voltage.
Proper sizing and monitoring of the switchboard's load prevent overloading.
Worn-out components (fuses, circuit breakers) contribute to tripping; regular inspection and replacement are needed.
Contaminants like dirt and dust cause components to malfunction, leading to tripping.
Regular cleaning and ventilation prevent contamination-related tripping.
Human errors, such as improper wiring or installation, also lead to tripping; qualified electricians and training are essential.
To improve LV switchboard performance: install SPDs, manage load, maintain equipment, clean regularly, and ensure qualified personnel.
Low voltage (LV) switchboards in Malaysia can experience a high rate of tripping, which can cause power outages and disrupt operations for businesses and other organizations. There are several reasons why this can occur, and several steps that can be taken to reduce the frequency of tripping and improve the overall performance of the LV switchboard.
One of the main reasons for high rates of tripping in LV switchboards in Malaysia is due to the frequent thunderstorms and electrical storms that occur in the country. These storms can generate voltage spikes and surges that can damage electronic equipment and cause power outages. Surge protection devices (SPD) can help to reduce the frequency of tripping by diverting excess voltage away from sensitive electronic equipment. Type 1 SPDs are particularly important for protection against external transients such as lightning strikes, and should be installed at the point of entry for the electrical supply.
Another reason for high rates of tripping in LV switchboards is due to overloading. This can occur when too much electrical current is flowing through the switchboard, causing it to become overheated and trip. To solve this problem, it is important to ensure that the switchboard is appropriately sized for the load it is carrying and to regularly monitor the current flowing through the switchboard.
A third common reason of high rate of tripping is the worn out and ageing equipment. Over time, components in the switchboard such as fuses, circuit breakers and contactors can become degraded, reducing their ability to perform properly. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain all equipment in the switchboard, and to replace any components that show signs of wear or damage.
Another factor that can cause tripping is the presence of dirt, dust, or other contaminants in the switchboard. This can cause the components to overheat or malfunction, leading to tripping. To prevent this, it is important to regularly clean the switchboard and ensure that it is well-ventilated.
Finally, human errors, such as improper wiring, incorrect installation of devices, or overloaded circuits, can also contribute to tripping. It is important to ensure that all work on the switchboard is performed by qualified and experienced electricians and that proper training is provided for those who will be working with the switchboard.
In summary, there are several reasons why LV switchboards in Malaysia can experience a high rate of tripping, including frequent thunderstorms, overloading, aging equipment, contaminants and human errors. To reduce the frequency of tripping and improve the overall performance of the LV switchboard, it is important to install surge protection devices, ensure the switchboard is appropriately sized, regularly inspect and maintain all equipment, and clean the switchboard to prevent contaminants, and to ensure that all work on the switchboard is performed by qualified electricians.
Opmerkingen