Question 1

What is the difference between an MCC and a TGBT?

Accepted Answer

The main low-voltage switchboard (TGBT) distributes power across a site: it receives power from the transformer and distributes it to the outgoing circuits. The motor control center (MCC) groups the motor circuits for a process: protection, control, and speed variation for each motor. Both comply with the IEC 61439 standard.

Question 2

What do forms 2 and 3 of the IEC 61439 standard mean?

Accepted Answer

The shapes describe the degree of internal separation within an assembly: shape 1 has no separation, shape 2 separates busbars, and shape 3 separates functional units from each other. The higher the shape, the safer the operation and maintenance under partial power.

Question 3

What is a FAT test and a SAT test?

Accepted Answer

The Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is the factory acceptance test: the entire system is tested on a platform at the manufacturer's facility, in the presence of the customer, before shipment. The Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is the on-site acceptance test, after installation and connection. SIMEF Industrie performs individual series tests and FATs on its systems before delivery.

Question 4

What is the difference between an ATEX zone 2 and an ATEX zone 22?

Accepted Answer

Zone 2 concerns explosive atmospheres due to gases or vapors, which are unlikely to occur during normal operation; Zone 22 is its equivalent for combustible dust. In both cases, Category 3 equipment (3G for gases, 3D for dust) as defined in Directive 2014/34/EU is required.

Question 5

What is an IRVE HPC cabinet?

Accepted Answer

HPC (High Power Charging) refers to high-power charging, typically exceeding 150 kW DC. An HPC EV charging station centralizes power conversion and distribution to supply multiple fast charging points, along with associated protection, monitoring, and cooling.

Question 6

What is a photovoltaic shelter?

Accepted Answer

A photovoltaic shelter is a prefabricated and pre-equipped technical unit (inverters, AC/DC distribution, auxiliary equipment, monitoring) delivered ready to be connected to a solar power plant. It significantly reduces on-site assembly and commissioning time, as the entire unit arrives pre-wired and tested.

Question 7

Does SIMEF Industrie work on a white label (OEM) basis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. SIMEF Industrie manufactures sub-assemblies and finished products for manufacturers and integrators, under their brand: studies, prototyping, industrialization, series production and logistics. Confidentiality and traceability are contractually guaranteed.

Question 8

Do you carry out electrical studies and calculations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The SIMEF Industrie design office prepares the electrical diagrams and calculation notes (cable sizing, protection devices, busbars) in accordance with current standards, prior to manufacturing. These deliverables are provided with the complete project documentation.

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