Norelco: the revamped NorMax medium voltage switchgear for effective electricity distribution

Norelco NorMax is a modular air-insulated switchgear designed for medium voltages (12–24 kV) to meet the needs of modern distribution networks. In the development of NorMax the key selection criteria for the main devices were reliability and environmental sustainability. 

NorMax is an excellent choice for applications such as transformer substations of real estate, solar power plants, substations and many other secondary distribution needs. Each project is designed and implemented on a case-by-case basis. The switchgear system consists of standardised cubicles tailored to the customer’s needs. The switchgear can be fitted with the protection relays specified by the customer.

Significantly less SF6 gas – easy future conversion into an SF6-free configuration

The load breakers in the new NorMax contain significantly less SF6 gas than earlier designs. The revamp also gave the NorMax medium voltage switchgear a simplified and optimised mechanical structure so that future conversion to SF6-free switchgear is easy.

“The use of SF6 gas in medium voltage equipment will most likely completely cease in the EU area as of the beginning of year 2026. The availability of entirely SF6-free components is still poor and procuring them now would be more costly for our customers than it will be in the future. During this transition phase, the revamped NorMax is a wise choice for our customers,” says Norelco’s Sales Director Juha Katainen.

Fuse-disconnector with even higher capacity

The new fuse-disconnector design makes it possible to supply more powerful transformers with a simple and much more affordable fuse-disconnector instead of a circuit-breaker. This cost-effective solution is suitable for distribution transformer substations with no need for selective protection.

More user-friendly control panel

Thanks to generous installation space, NorMax switchgear offers fast installation and speedy commissioning. Quick installation saves time at the worksite and keeps installations costs in check.

The revamp of NorMax gave it a clearer and more user-friendly control panel. White was also selected as the standard colour of the NorMax switchgear, giving it a high-quality finish and modern overall appearance. 

NorMax has a voltage presence indicator in compliance with the IEC 62271-206 standard in all its cubicles. NorMax can be equipped with either an analogue or a digital gas pressure gauge. The switchgear is equipped with a reliable, maintenance-free, spring-operated vacuum circuit-breaker.

More information: Juha Katainen juha.katainen@norelco.fi +358 50 5255100