VD4/VD4 evo

Standard and versatile circuit breakers for all primary applications

Standard and versatile circuit breakers for all primary applications

 

VD4, up to 46 kV, is a medium voltage vacuum circuit breaker with mechanical actuator (spring mechanism) for primary distribution. With a global installed base of over 2 million units, VD4 can perform 30,000 overhaul-free* mechanical operations on most ratings. 

The next generation of ABB’s VD4 is called VD4 evo. VD4 evo up to 17.5 kV, is available with integrated sensors for monitoring and diagnostics of critical parameters for remote asset management, maintenance optimization and operational cost reduction. 

*   Please refer to BS EN 13306-2010.clause 8, for maintenance type definitions.

** ABB’s ZEE600 SCADA

Product scope

 

 

 

 

VD4 / VD4 evo

 

 

Rated voltage 

 

 

up to 46 kV 

 

 

Rated current

 

 

up to 4,000 A 

 

 

Rated short circuit current

 

 

up to 63 kA 

 

 

Technology 

 

 

Vacuum 

 

 

Operating mechanism 

 

 

Mechanical 

 

 

Mechanical operations

 

 

30,000 maintenance-free operations on most ratings 

 

 

Monitoring & Diagnostic

 

 

Yes, VD4 evo for 17.5 kV, 31,5-40 kA*

 

 

Standards 

 

 

IEC, CSA 

 

 

Industries 

 

 

Generic: all applications, incl. marine 

*Monitoring and diagnostics to be constantly added to more ratings.
For ANSI standards of VD4 please check our ADVAC portfolio here. 

 

Related offering

Primary vacuum circuit breakers

Ensuring grid integrity for primary distribution, Primary Vacuum Circuit Breakers safely interrupt power flow during major anomalies (like short circuits or overcurrents) and quickly restore service, guaranteeing continuous power for critical users.

Primary protection relays

Critical for grid safety and reliability, Primary Protection Relays continuously monitor the system to recognize abnormal conditions and instantly initiate corrective actions, preventing faults from spreading across the network.

Centralized protection and control

With a centralized protection and control (SSC600) approach, all protection and control functionalities that several individual protection relays offer are centralized into one single device on the substation level for minimal engineering, station-wide visibility and optimal process management.

Secondary protection relays

Specifically designed for the final stage of power delivery, Secondary Protection Relays monitor the secondary distribution network to quickly detect and resolve local system abnormalities, ensuring safety and continuous service.

Poles

Medium voltage poles with vacuum interrupters embedded for circuit breaker construction, up to 40.5 kV, 4,000 A, 50 kA combine the latest ABB vacuum technology with embedding technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

ABB’s VD4 circuit breakers offer reliable performance for primary protection, with over 2 million units installed globally. They are versatile and powerful, ideal for various applications such as capacitor bank switching and marine environments. The VD4 series is fully interchangeable with ABB HD4 gas circuit breakers and features a common plug-and-play actuator compatible with a wide range of accessories. 

VD4 products are medium voltage circuit breakers with a mechanical actuator (spring mechanism) designed for primary distribution up to 46 kV, 4000 A, and 63 kA. They provide reliable protection and are suitable for a wide range of applications.

The VD4 circuit breakers feature vacuum interrupters embedded in poles, which protect against humidity, shocks, and dust. This design ensures durability and reduces the risk of failure due to contamination, tracking, or partial discharge. 

They have a modular spring-operated mechanical actuator that ensures easy operation even without an auxiliary supply. The design allows for quick and safe servicing, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. 

Yes, ABB’s VD4 circuit breakers offer cassettes and module systems for OEMs and panel builders to create tailored solutions. They cover global standards and ratings, fitting specific needs and providing an optimum interface for asset protection.

The VD4 evo is the digital evolution of the globally recognised VD4 indoor vacuum circuit breaker. It is designed to control and protect cables, transformers, motors, and capacitor banks in medium-voltage power distribution systems. With integrated sensors, it offers real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and remote asset management, reducing maintenance costs, minimising downtime, and improving operational efficiency.

Yes, VD4 evo offers flexible design options, including standard configurations without sensors. These can be also upgraded to include digital functionality, such as integrated sensors, when needed. This future-proof design makes it an ideal choice for evolving power distribution systems. 

The VD4 evo supports seamless integration with ABB’s ZEE600 SCADA solution (including optional cloud connectivity) or third-party SCADA and gateway systems via Modbus protocol. It features a web browser-based intuitive dashboard for monitoring and diagnostics, along with a QR code for fast access to online documentation. Connectivity is enabled via Wi-Fi or cable.