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Overview

Major refits are carried out on all Royal Naval Warships and Submarines on a planned basis, to ensure they are ready and able to undertake the multiplicity of tasks the UK Navy carries out around the world.

When a major refit takes place, temporary power and lighting has to be installed throughout the vessel, as the fixed power and lighting is out of service during the refit. Although this is a temporary installation, a major refit can take 12 months or more to complete and the equipment must be able to endure harsh operating conditions over an extended period and also be capable of being used on many refits over a period of years.

The Blakley Electrics Project Team has recently completed a contract for 6 no. 41.25 kVA Dockside Transformers, which are to be used exclusively for Royal Navy ship refits. The assemblies have been specifically designed to withstand the arduous physical conditions and highly corrosive atmosphere encountered in this environment, as well as meet the stringent electrical safety requirements outlined below.

All temporary lighting and most power tools used on a refit operate at 110 volts. In addition, there is also a requirement for a maximum voltage to earth of 55V, which precludes the use of a conventional three-phase Reduced Low Voltage (RLV) site transformer, where a line to earth voltage of up to 63.5V is permitted. Due to the long 110V cable runs and the prevalence of conductive materials across most vessels, RCD protection is also required to ensure that earth leakages can be cleared well within the 5 seconds designated in the 17th Edition Wiring Regulations for RLV circuits. The multi layered 110V reticulation system used on the vessel requires adjustable, selective RCDs to be fitted in the Dockside Transformers to ensure discrimination with downstream RCDs.

To withstand the salt laden atmosphere and harsh operating conditions, these high specification assemblies utilise purpose built, non-vented, IP55 enclosures made from grade 316L stainless steel, finished with a conspicuous top coat. To protect the enclosure structure from physical damage, it is mounted within a heavy duty crash frame, which also provides a safe method of moving these 620kg assemblies, whether by fork lift or crane.

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Project No:

SP020

Industry

Docks and Harbours

Category

Permanent Distribution

Year

2014

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