Key Takeaways:

• Sealed reclosers drastically reduce arc flash risks.

• Siemens vacuum-insulated CMRs eliminate external sparks and wildlife electrocutions.

• Arc flash prevention reduces the risk of fires, equipment damage, and injuries to personnel.

• Upgrading to sealed reclosers supports a safer, cleaner, and more reliable power grid.
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Comparing Sealed Reclosers to Open-Air Systems

Open-air systems expose live components to the environment, increasing the likelihood of arc flashes, equipment fires, and wildlife-related outages. These systems also demand more frequent maintenance and carry a higher risk of environmental contamination from oil leaks.

In contrast, Siemens’ sealed reclosers contain all interrupters within vacuum-insulated or solid-dielectric enclosures, protecting critical components from external hazards. This not only improves safety but also enhances reliability, especially in regions prone to wildfires, storms, or regulatory pressure.

Real-World Benefits: Fewer Fires and Environmental Hazards

Utilities using Siemens sealed reclosers experience fewer fires, reduced environmental damage, and significantly decreased wildlife incidents.

These systems eliminate the need for oil, reducing the risk of hazardous spills and costly cleanup. With their enclosed design, sealed reclosers also deter bird and animal contact, a common cause of outages and fires.

The result is a more resilient grid, lower environmental impact, and improved public trust—all of which support long-term utility goals.

Preventing Failures, Fires, and Environmental Hazards

Choosing Siemens sealed reclosers not only reduces immediate hazards but proactively prevents future equipment failures, wildfires, and environmental threats.

Operational & Regulatory Advantages of Sealed Reclosers

In addition to improving safety and reducing environmental risks, Siemens’ sealed reclosers offer long-term operational and regulatory advantages. Utilities adopting sealed systems are better equipped to meet evolving safety codes and environmental standards.

With minimal maintenance needs, these reclosers lower operational costs and free up crews for more critical tasks—especially valuable amid ongoing labor shortages and pressure to maintain uptime.

They also help reduce regulatory exposure by eliminating oil leaks, fire risks, and wildlife-related outages—common causes of fines, cleanup costs, and reputational damage.

Upgrading to sealed reclosers is not just a technical upgrade—it’s a strategic step toward greater reliability, compliance, and sustainability.

Bottom Line

Upgrading from open-air systems to Siemens sealed reclosers dramatically enhances arc flash prevention, safety, and sustainability while minimizing risks to communities and wildlife.

If you have any questions please reach out to info@below38kv.com or give us a call at (877) 881-8745.