Finite element analysis of reinforcement for gas insulated switchgear

Abstract

Considering the burgeoning requirement for reinforcing gas-insulated metal-enclosed switchgear, a three-dimensional elastic-plastic finite element model was established to examine the stress distribution before and after reinforcement. The results showed that, under an internal pressure of 3.8 MPa, the maximum stress of the defective sample surpassed the yield strength of the material, leading to its destruction. On the other hand, the maximum stress value of the reinforced sample, with a gel and a reinforcing plate, decreased to 145 MPa and was lower than the yield strength of the material. Moreover, the results of the hydrostatic test further demonstrated that the gel was effective in reducing the stress concentration at the defect within a certain range. In particular, the results indicated that the gel was capable of decreasing the maximum stress value by 33 MPa, thereby safeguarding the structural integrity of the switchgear.