The Switch DC-Hub

The Switch DC-Hub is built from our proven building blocks to provide a vessel with a flexible choice of power generation, energy storage, charging, propulsion power and clean power – all connected to the DC bus, the backbone of The Switch DC-Hub. It comes with a suite of four game-changing building blocks to secure ride-through operations. Vessels can continue operating at full power, unaffected by any electrical fault.

These proven blocks make it easy for you to build your own DC-Hub to fit the exact needs of your vessel. For system integrators, our simulator allows you to develop the configuration without hardware. Our maintenance tools are purpose-built for the job.

The Switch DC-Hub includes the following building blocks:

  • Motor/generator inverter (MI/GI)
  • Active front end (AFE) for grid connection
  • Electronic Bus Link (EBL) to connect DC-Hubs together
  • DC/DC chopper to connect DC sources to the system

Interested in vessel protection?

In our last master class, our experts talked about:

  • Introduction of two new protection devices
  • Purpose and applications of the devices
  • Case study showcasing their effectiveness
  • Q&A session for participant questions

Master Class #3: How to connect large-scale batteries to a DC system

Sign up to watch our master class recording!

Full suite for safety

The Switch Electronic Bus Link

Technology
The Switch Electronic Bus Link (EBL) connects the vessel’s DC-Hubs and protects against faults between DC-Hubs. The DP3-rated and DNV-approved EBL provides protection outside the DC-Hub by splitting onboard grids in microseconds to isolate any faulty DC-Hub.
  • Ensures complete redundancy
  • Forms a ring network from multiple DC-Hubs
  • Guarantees selectivity between DC-Hubs
  • DP3 tested and approved by DNV

The Switch Electronic DC Breaker

Technology
The Switch Electronic DC Breaker (EDCB) protects against short-circuit faults inside a DC-Hub and ensures ride-through. The semiconductor-based device disconnects any failing drive module within 10 microseconds from the common DC link.
  • Ensures least possible energy disruption
  • Cuts and isolates faults within 10 microseconds
  • Integrated in every inverter connected to a common DC link
  • Prevents any voltage drop, enabling ride-through

The Switch Electronic Current Limiter (ECL)

Connects the battery directly to the DC link to protect it from external failure and ensure ride-through. It functions similar to the EBL.

The Switch Battery Short-Circuit Limiter (BSCL)

Restricts any short-term current from batteries, immediately blocking the short-circuit system. This allows more batteries to be connected to the electrical system and fewer DC-Hubs, making the entire system more compact.

Easy to configure with our library of building blocks

  1. Choose building blocks from the library
    • Application
    • Electrical parameters
  2. Select your DC link configuration
  3. Define your power scope and physical size
Ask us more

No compromises in features, materials or solutions

Ready for harsh marine operation

  • Allows system-level optimization and easy at-sea servicing
  • Rigid foundation with vibration dampers
  • Can be connected to the vessel’s freshwater cooling system

Unique ultrafast semiconductor-based protection concept

  • Suite of 4 fit-for-purpose, game-changing products
  • Electronic DC Breaker (EDCB) is unique in the market
  • Ride-through capability

Fast and reliable maintenance

  • Crew can change the module
  • Power module precharge included
  • Fast AC and DC connectors in power module
  • Closed IP44 power module and cabinet structure
  • No bolt connections in the main electrical path