PR-00 mechanisms are intended for manual operation of disconnectors and earthing switches. The mechanisms are manufactured to current industry practice for medium-voltage switchgear and controlgear.
The PR-00 is used to operate the main blades or earthing switches of the latest disconnector series RDZ, RG, RLK, etc., for rated voltages up to 35 kV.
PR-00 is supplied with a single main shaft.
Reliable operation is ensured under the following conditions:
– installation altitude up to 1000 m above sea level;
– upper service ambient temperature +40 °C;
– lower service ambient temperature -60 °C.
The mechanism consists of an enclosure, output shaft, interlock based on the ZB-1M UHL1 electromagnetic lock, a switching mechanism, operating handle, and cable glands.
Access to internal mechanisms (for installation and commissioning) is available after unlocking with a special key and lowering the enclosure cover.
Connection to the disconnector/earthing-switch shaft is made by a clamping hub on the output shaft, allowing adjustment during switching ON/OFF of the disconnector or earthing switch.
The operating handle can be pinned in the horizontal position during an operation; when the operation is completed the handle is set vertically and can be locked with a padlock.

Technical data

Purpose and application

The PR-00 manual mechanism is a universal device for driving the main blades of outdoor and indoor medium-voltage disconnectors up to 35 kV, as well as for operating earthing-switch blades within single- and three-pole disconnectors of the RDZ, RG, RLK types and their modifications. The mechanism provides reliable transfer of the apparatus to the end fixed positions “ON”/“OFF”, stable position holding under external influences (wind load, vibration), and both mechanical and electromagnetic interlocking to avoid mal-operations in substation distribution schemes. Typical applications: KRU and KRUN 6–35 kV, outdoor switchyards 10–35 kV, distribution points, industrial and utility interconnection nodes, sectionalizing points, and maintenance isolation on substations.

PR-00 is used in upgrades of existing disconnectors and in new equipment sets. Mechanical compatibility, an adjustable clamping hub on the shaft, unified connection parts, and a wide allowable operating force range make the PR-00 a drop-in replacement for similar manual mechanisms. Manual operation ensures independence from external auxiliary power during switching and increases installation survivability in emergency conditions.

Service conditions

Climatic/environmental category suitable for outdoor use and unheated indoor locations, with a service temperature range from -60 °C to +40 °C. Permitted installation altitude - up to 1000 m a.s.l. The design withstands precipitation and dust typical for outdoor switchyards, provided standard maintenance practices are observed, including periodic checks of gland tightness and seal integrity. In heavy icing regions, protective hoods/covers against direct icing are recommended, along with seasonal servicing of moving joints (cleaning, lubrication, fastener torque check). Operation within KRU/KRUN cubicles is allowed with normal ventilation and in the absence of corrosive gases.

Design and layout

The basic layout includes a metal enclosure with a drop-down cover, a main output shaft with a clamping hub, a switching mechanism with fixed end positions, and a hand-operated lever that can be extended to increase the operating arm. The kinematics ensure a 90° rotation of the main shaft with stable end-position latching. Adjustment of transport and working positions is achieved by repositioning the clamping parts on the disconnector shaft and selecting link lengths. The enclosure design allows left/right handle arrangement relative to the shaft axis, simplifying integration of the PR-00 into existing panels and racks.

An electromagnetic interlock based on the ZB-1M UHL1 lock is integrated. The interlock controls access to the mechanism and prevents erroneous ON/OFF operations when supervisory interlocks are active (e.g., from protection relays, auto-reclosing/transfer schemes, inter-equipment interlocks). Unlocking the cover and moving the handle from the “neutral” position are permitted only when an enabling signal is applied to the electromagnet circuit. For commissioning, an emergency key is provided to allow servicing with auxiliary power removed, in line with safety rules.

The output shaft is rated to provide the torque required to move the disconnector blades considering bearing friction and external influences (icing, pollution). The clamping hub ensures precise synchronization of angular positions between apparatus and mechanism, preventing blade skew and incomplete operations. The handle is mechanically latched horizontally during an operation; upon completion it is set vertically and can be padlocked.

Safety and interlocking

The PR-00 interlock system integrates into typical substation interlocking schemes and provides:

• electromagnetic access interlock (ZB-1M UHL1) powered by 220 V control circuits;
• mechanical latching of the handle and cover to prevent unauthorized operation;
• provision for electrical position signalling (installation of KSA limit switches on the shaft) for panel indication and telemetry;
• process interlocks such as “earthing switch - only with disconnector OFF” (implemented within the site’s kinematic linkages).

The design and materials comply with applicable safety requirements for medium-voltage equipment. Operating procedures should define a clear sequence for personnel: verify absence of voltage, apply earthing, and seal key positions.

Versions and options

The PR-00 is available with different output-shaft orientations and handle placements to facilitate installation and maintenance across various KRU/KRUN and outdoor layouts. Typical options supplied per data sheet, as well as items available as accessories, are listed below.

*Applicability and composition for operation with an earthing-switch shaft depend on the specific disconnector model and the panel/rack layout.

Compliance with standards

Design and manufacture of the PR-00 take into account applicable international standards for disconnectors, earthing switches, their operating mechanisms, environmental categories, and safety:

• EN/IEC 62271-102 - Alternating-current disconnectors and earthing switches (includes requirements for operating devices and auxiliaries);
• EN/IEC 62271-1 - Common specifications for AC switchgear and controlgear;
• EN/IEC 62271-200 - AC metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear (when applied within KRU/KRUN panels);
• EN/IEC 60721-3-4 / EN/IEC 60721-3-3 - Environmental conditions classification for stationary use at non-weather-protected / weather-protected locations (replacement for legacy climate categories).

Engagement with contractors and partners

We are open to cooperation with mechanical manufacturers, electrical apparatus makers, investors, and integrators. Cooperation can include machining, painting, assembly, and testing of mechanisms and related parts. We provide technology packages, routing sheets, bills of materials, and specifications, along with advice on sourcing components. For disconnector manufacturers, we adapt connection dimensions and kinematics to your apparatus, ensuring compatibility in rotation angles and operating forces.

Documentation offered

Engineering documentation is available for design, manufacturing, and commissioning: manufacturing drawings (DWG/DXF), 3D models (STEP/Parasolid), BOMs, installation and operating manuals, schematic and wiring diagrams for KSA, parts lists, and recommended spares. Documentation is tailored to project requirements and your production capabilities.

Advantages of the PR-00

• Simple, rigid kinematics - accurate end-position latching and repeatable operations.
• Manual operation independent of auxiliary power - high reliability in abnormal conditions.
• Unified connection dimensions and clamping hubs - simplified modernization of existing switchgear.
• Integrated electromagnetic interlock - reduced operational risk.
• Adaptable left/right arrangement and enclosure configuration - fewer installation modifications.

Why work with us

– No need to maintain a large engineering team - you get a complete documentation set that can be used by mid-level engineers.
– No pilot units required - our experience allows immediate launch of serial production.
– Working from our documentation, your specialists receive consulting on every nuance of PR-00 manufacturing.

– Flexible cooperation: we help select contractors for machining, painting, supply of standard parts (bearings, seals, fasteners, ZB-1M locks), and commissioning fixtures.
– Reduced production ramp-up times: we provide ready templates of setup sheets and instructions for assembly stations.
– Scalable: documentation supports both small-batch and serial production with standard routings and BOMs.

For additional information on the PR-00 mechanism please contact: inbox@proekt-energo.com

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