Prototype Development of

Automated Ring Main Unit System

TNB Distribution
Presentation Meeting

Project Background

RMUs Presently Used

What is an RMU?
Who operates it?
Are there safety concerns?

RMU Operation
Opening/closing of
the load break switch
or earthing switch:
Key/lever
Pushed to overcome spring force
Turn 90 at ~20 N.m (clockwise or counterclockwise depending on usage)

Who operates it?

Are there safety concerns?
Can it function remotely?

Project Objectives
To design a motorized retrofit for automatic
operation of (F&G*) Ring Main Unit (RMU) as
per technical specifications provided by TNB
Distribution.

Customer Requirements
??
??

Deliverables
A prototype RMU Motorization Unit for
operation of manually operated F&G* Ring Main
Units.

Project Impact
The proposed system would be able to switch the
RMU breakers in a safe manner via remote
control.
Reduce downtime via remote operation and
enhance the safety of TNBs personnel by
eliminating the need for manual operation of the
RMU.

Project Methodology
Stages of prototype development:
1. Torque and dimension measurements
2. Study of Actuation Mechanism
3. Grip frame design and material selection
4. Sensors & Alignment
5. Power & Controls
6. Testing & Trials

RMU Automation
Operational Block Diagram
Auto/Remote
Local/Manual Local/Manual
CW
CCW

Manual push
relays &
Indicators

M1
Power Supply Unit

28VDC
10A

Motor Driver

M2

w max current limit

CW/CCW
control signal

M3
Load switch limit switch

Microcontroller

SCADA

Components List
1. Power supply unit
2. Grip Frame
3. Motor Mounting Rails Assembly
4. Programmable Logic Controller
5. Motor Driver/controller
6. Auto/Manual Cam Selector Switch
7. Push Power Relays
8. Limit/position Sensors
9. Geared DC Motors
10. Miscellaneous

Features
1. Light-weight (require only one person for
mounting & installation)
2. Simple gripping and holding mechanism
3. Ready for remote and local operation
4. Completely detachable motor unit for manual
operation
5. Continuous Breaker load switch status indicator
6. Motor over-current protection
7. Response time of < 5 seconds
8. Motor interlock operation

Estimated Costing* per 2+1 RMU

(3 motor set)
Mechanical works (motor mounting and grip
frame) ~ RM1300
Geared motors 3 x RM700
Controller RM400
Motor driver RM700
Sensors and electronics components RM400
Power Supply Unit RM900 (for prototype
only)
TOTAL COST ~RM5000 (without PSU)
* For large quantities of order

Initial survey and testing in ILSAS

Load breaker switch sizing

Initial motor selection

Continuation of motor selection

Motor mount and torque testing

Testing torque capability

DC Motor on mount

A closer look at the

Motor Mounting Rail Assembly

Further testing on actual F&G RMU

Procurement of Test Bed RMU

Installation of Mount on Grip Frame

Motor mount installed on grip frame on an F&G RMU

Rear view of gripping clamp

F&G ZZTT and ZZT RMUs in UNITEN

ZZT F&G RMU

ZZTT F&G RMU

Grip Frame

Detachable Motor Mounting Rail Assembly

Motor Selection and Testing ILSAS

30VDC Circuit Breaker Motor

Gearbox Failure

Specified Torque 25N-m

Switching Key Failure

Testing on RMUs in UNITEN

Motor Mounting Rail Assembly

Play Video

Motor Mounting Rail Assembly

Play Video

Thank you.

Questions & Discussions

Timeline
Month 1

Month 2

Month 3

Month 4

Actuation
Mechanism Assy

Fabrication and
assy

Test and Trials

Cross Slide
Traversing Assy

Design and
Procurement

Fabrication

Actuation and
Cross slide
integration

Selection

Procurement

Integration

Test and Trials

Selection and
Procurement

Programming

Test and Trials

Sensors &
Alignment

Power & Controls

System

Networking and
Communication

PDSB

Test and Trials

Uniten Procurement Procedures

Quotation
Value: RM 100 K
Float period: 3 - 14 days
Min. : 3 companies

Tender
Value: > RM 100 K
Float period: 14 - 21 days
Min. : 5 companies