Metal Enclosed vs Metal Clad Switchgear: Key Differences for Medium Voltage Systems
A2Z Energy explains the key differences between metal enclosed and metal clad switchgear for medium voltage power distribution projects.
Medium voltage switchgear plays a critical role in safe and reliable power distribution. In industrial facilities, substations, commercial projects, infrastructure investments and energy distribution networks, choosing the right switchgear type directly affects safety, service continuity, maintenance efficiency and long-term system performance.
Two commonly used switchgear solutions in medium voltage applications are metal enclosed switchgear and metal clad switchgear. Although both solutions are used for power distribution and protection, they differ in terms of compartment structure, accessibility, internal separation, service continuity and application area.
At A2Z Energy, we support our partners with project-based medium voltage switchgear solutions through technical coordination, reliable sourcing and Türkiye-based manufacturing partners.
What Is Metal Enclosed Switchgear?
Metal enclosed switchgear is a medium voltage switchgear solution where electrical components are placed inside an earthed metal enclosure. This structure helps protect the equipment against environmental effects such as dust, humidity and mechanical impact, while also helping reduce the risk of accidental contact with live parts.
Metal enclosed switchgear may include circuit breakers, load break switches, disconnectors, earthing switches, busbars, current transformers, voltage transformers, protection relays, measuring devices and control equipment.
This type of switchgear is generally preferred for medium voltage distribution systems where a practical, reliable and cost-effective solution is required.
What Is Metal Clad Switchgear?
Metal clad switchgear is a more compartmentalized switchgear solution. In this design, major components such as the circuit breaker, busbar section, cable connection section and low voltage control section are separated from each other by earthed metal partitions.
This compartmentalized structure provides a higher level of operational safety and allows more controlled access during inspection and maintenance activities.
Metal clad switchgear is commonly preferred in applications where higher fault levels, improved service continuity, enhanced safety and more demanding operating conditions are required.
Main Difference Between Metal Enclosed and Metal Clad Switchgear
The main difference between metal enclosed and metal clad switchgear is the level of internal separation.
In metal enclosed switchgear, several components may be located in common or partially separated compartments. This makes the structure simpler and more economical for many standard medium voltage applications.
In metal clad switchgear, the main functional sections are separated by metal partitions. This allows safer access to specific compartments and supports better service continuity during maintenance operations.
Simply put, metal enclosed switchgear focuses on practical and cost-effective medium voltage distribution, while metal clad switchgear provides a higher level of compartmentalization, safety and operational continuity.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Metal Enclosed Switchgear | Metal Clad Switchgear |
|---|---|---|
| General structure | Components inside metal enclosure | Components separated by metal partitions |
| Compartmentalization | Lower or moderate separation | Higher separation between main sections |
| Service continuity | Suitable for standard MV applications | Better service continuity in demanding systems |
| Maintenance access | Easier general access | More controlled compartment-based access |
| Safety level | Reliable for many standard applications | Higher operational safety due to separation |
| Typical use | Distribution networks, transformer protection, standard MV systems | Industrial facilities, substations, high-demand projects |
| Cost level | Generally more economical | Generally higher investment cost |
| Project suitability | Practical and compact solutions | Critical systems requiring higher reliability |
Service Continuity and Safety
Service continuity is one of the most important criteria when selecting medium voltage switchgear. In many facilities, even a short power interruption can cause production loss, operational delays or safety risks.
Metal enclosed switchgear can provide reliable performance for standard distribution requirements. However, in systems where maintenance access, fault isolation and operational continuity are more critical, metal clad switchgear may offer a stronger solution.
The compartmentalized design of metal clad switchgear helps limit the impact of possible faults and allows technical teams to access specific sections more safely.
Where Is Metal Enclosed Switchgear Used?
Metal enclosed switchgear is commonly used in medium voltage applications where the system requirements are clear, the fault level is moderate and the project needs a reliable but cost-effective solution.
Common application areas include:
Industrial facilities
Transformer protection systems
Commercial buildings
Distribution centers
Renewable energy projects
Infrastructure projects
Compact substations
Medium voltage distribution networks
Factory power distribution systems
For many project-based applications, metal enclosed switchgear offers a balanced solution in terms of cost, reliability and functionality.
Where Is Metal Clad Switchgear Used?
Metal clad switchgear is generally preferred in more demanding applications where higher safety, stronger internal separation and better service continuity are required.
Common application areas include:
Power plants
Main substations
Heavy industrial facilities
Mining facilities
Transportation and railway projects
Large infrastructure projects
Utility distribution networks
Critical energy systems
High fault current applications
In these projects, the additional compartmentalization and safety structure of metal clad switchgear can provide important operational advantages.
Which Switchgear Type Should Be Selected?
There is no single correct answer for every project. The right choice depends on the technical requirements of the electrical system.
Before selecting a medium voltage switchgear solution, the following points should be evaluated:
Rated voltage
Rated current
Short-circuit level
Internal arc requirement
Service continuity expectation
Installation area
Maintenance strategy
Protection and control requirements
Project budget
Applicable standards
Environmental conditions
Future expansion needs
For standard medium voltage distribution projects, metal enclosed switchgear may be sufficient and cost-effective. For critical facilities, high fault levels or projects requiring stronger service continuity, metal clad switchgear may be the better choice.
A2Z Energy Approach
A2Z Energy supports international partners with project-based medium voltage switchgear and electrical infrastructure solutions. Our role is to help customers evaluate the technical requirements of their projects and coordinate suitable solutions through reliable manufacturing partners in Türkiye.
We focus on clear communication, technical suitability, quality-focused sourcing and long-term cooperation. Whether the project requires metal enclosed switchgear, metal clad switchgear, compact substations, transformer kiosks or other energy distribution equipment, A2Z Energy aims to provide dependable support from Türkiye.
Conclusion
Metal enclosed and metal clad switchgear are both important solutions in medium voltage power distribution. The difference lies mainly in their internal structure, compartmentalization, service continuity and application area.
Metal enclosed switchgear is often preferred for practical and cost-effective medium voltage distribution needs. Metal clad switchgear is better suited for demanding applications where safety, fault isolation and service continuity are more critical.
Choosing the right switchgear type requires a project-based technical evaluation. With reliable sourcing capability and Türkiye-based manufacturing partners, A2Z Energy supports contractors, distributors, industrial companies and project developers with suitable medium voltage switchgear solutions.