What is the life expectancy of switchgear?

Issue:
Life expectancy data available for switchgear

Product Line:
Switchgear

Environment:
HVL
Metalclad
Metal Enclosed
Air and Gas breakers

Resolution:
There are no set limits per standards of the life of an equipment. The components, like a circuit breaker have a limited performance (10,000 mechanical operations, 10,000 load current and 50 maximum short circuit operations). After that the breaker can be replaced. The enclosure, bussing, etc. has a 15-30 year life span, but that is not a mandatory requirement. It is not uncommon to have 50 years and older switchgear in service and working well.

Released for:Schneider Electric USA