Eaton has introduced the xEnergy Elite low-voltage motor control and power distribution center, supporting loads up to 7,500A and 690VAC.

The new low-voltage switchgear and motor control solution combines safety with optimized efficiency.

Power management leader Eaton has launched the xEnergy Elite low-voltage motor control and power distribution center, suitable for loads up to 7,500A and 690VAC. The xEnergy Elite motor control center (MCC) offers extended uptime and flexibility for critical business applications in various industrial environments, reducing maintenance costs. It complies with relevant IEC standards and is designed to maximize power availability while protecting operating and maintenance personnel.

The MCC’s fully isolated dropper busbar, optional fully isolated main busbar, and patented Elite contact system for withdrawable motor starters and energy feeders employ advanced motor control and protection technology. These features enhance safety by minimizing arc flash risks, exceeding IEC TR 61641 requirements and specifically designed to prevent arc flash events.

The Elite contact system allows operation with the compartment door closed, improving personnel safety. Using a key, the device can be placed in disconnect, test, or connect positions. The incoming air circuit breaker (ACB) includes Eaton's unique arc-flash maintenance system, significantly reducing incident energy during maintenance while maintaining overcurrent protection during normal conditions.

The robust design of the xEnergy Elite MCC increases uptime and reduces maintenance needs. Thanks to the unique rotary contact technology in Elite drawer units, contact wear on the vertical busbar is minimized. This ensures optimal electrical connections, even under short-circuit or heavy load conditions, preventing sparking.

As of July 1, 2023, motors with output ratings between 75kW and 200kW must use ultra-efficient motors (IE4). The xEnergy Elite’s withdrawable motor starter units support the new usage categories for high-efficiency (IE3) and ultra-high-efficiency (IE4) motor switching, allowing front-side replacement without system shutdown, enabling maintenance and expansion without production interruption. This plug-and-play solution has been tested for over 1,000 mechanical operations, far exceeding the IEC standard of 200 cycles.

The MCC has a compact footprint, providing greater flexibility through high-density, mini-drawer configurations. Its busbars are nearly maintenance-free, with all functions accessible from the front of the switchgear, minimizing the need for rear access (the main busbar is located at the rear and top). As a result, the xEnergy Elite can be wall-mounted with only a 5cm clearance for ventilation, saving up to 2 square meters per section and freeing up valuable floor space.

Additionally, the system offers a shared main busbar solution, further minimizing footprint and reducing copper usage. The latest developments also cater to customers requiring a rear cable compartment, with the busbar located at the top.

“With motor failures potentially leading to production downtime, costly repairs, and serious safety concerns, the robust control and protection provided by xEnergy Elite are core elements of a reliable and safe system,” said Lukasz Przybecki, Product Manager for Low Voltage IEC Components at Eaton.