June 14, 2004

UnderCover™ Style Vista Enhances Aesthetics of Downtown Area.

When the resort town of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, decided to widen their main boulevard from two to four lanes, local businesses pushed to have the electrical distribution system placed underground. Local politicians were supportive of the idea since aesthetics of the downtown area would be vastly improved.

Although conventional pad-mounted gear would have sufficed for this application, the local utility instead chose sub-surface UnderCover Style S&C Vista® Underground Distribution Switchgear rated 15 kV. UnderCover Style Vista gear is available in manual, remote supervisory, and source-transfer versions, with up to six “ways,” in ratings through 38 kV and 25 kA symmetrical short-circuit.

All models feature load-interrupter switches and/or microprocessor controlled, resettable arc-spinner or vacuum fault interrupters, enclosed in a submersible, SF6-insulated, welded stainless-steel tank. The Vista overcurrent control provides a variety of time-current characteristic curves, including “ANSI/U.S.” and “IEC” curves. These new curves provide excellent coordination with the utility’s “KS” speed power fuses.

Although UnderCover Style Vista gear is completely hidden from view below grade, all routine switching operations are easily performed by one person—from the operating panel located near grade level. There’s no need for personnel to enter a vault to operate the gear. Large windows in the tank provide a clear view of the open gap and grounded positions. The optional voltage indication feature was selected to permit testing for voltage without removing cables. No ungainly stick-mounted voltage tester is needed.

The use of UnderCover Style Vista gear made it easier for the utility to obtain right-of-way agreements and easements. It also simplified coordination with the water, gas, and telephone utility companies. All installations of the new Vista gear have gone well.

The City of Myrtle Beach has further enhanced the look of their downtown with new landscaping and sidewalks. Other cities served by the utility, upon learning of the success of the project, are now moving forward with similar projects.