Enhanced Mechanical Operations to Enable Flexible Control and Protection in AC/DC Grids

The integration of renewable energy sources and the ongoing energy transition demand raise the request of flexibility in managing and controlling electrical grids for both AC and DC distribution networks. The new protection equipment is asked to address increased electrical stress, transient mitigation and frequent operations posing design challenge to reduce mechanical wear, extend lifespan, and minimize maintenance cycles. Lubrication is crucial in keeping the kinematic chain operations performance in mechanical equipment, yet the traditional solutions based on oils and greases, have limitations. This paper introduces the use of a novel graphene-based surface treatments for mechanical components in DC and AC circuit breakers as promising manufacturing practices. These treatments aim to extend scheduled maintenance intervals, while maintaining reliability and safety in this sector and enabling Medium Voltage equipment at lower maintenance levels.