Manufacturer: Lucy Electric
Original publication date: 16 July 2026
Topic: SF₆-free overhead distribution switchgear, vacuum interruption and grid automation

Lucy Electric has launched AirTec LX, a pole-mounted solid-dielectric vacuum load break switch for medium-voltage overhead distribution networks. The product family covers 12 kV, 24 kV and 38 kV system classes and is designed to remove SF₆ from this switching application while retaining the automation functions expected in modern distribution grids.

What has been launched?

AirTec LX combines vacuum interruption with hydrophobic cycloaliphatic epoxy insulation. It can be operated manually by hookstick, locally, or remotely. When integrated with Lucy Electric’s Gemini RTU, the device can operate as a remotely controlled load break switch or sectionaliser, supporting faster fault detection, isolation and service restoration.

Key technical data

• Rated voltages: 12 kV, 24 kV and 38 kV at 50/60 Hz.
• Rated normal current: 630 A for the 12 kV and 24 kV versions; 800 A for the 38 kV version.
• Rated short-time withstand current: 16 kA for 3 seconds.
• Rated short-circuit making current: 41.6 kA peak.
• Mechanical endurance: 10,000 operations, class M2; load-break electrical endurance class E3.
• Outdoor capability: IP68 enclosure and operating-temperature range from −30 °C to +70 °C.
• Standards stated by the manufacturer include IEC 62271-1, IEC 62271-103 and IEC 60529.

Why it matters

The launch brings the SF₆-free transition beyond indoor switchboards and ring main units into pole-mounted overhead-network equipment. For utilities, the combination of vacuum interruption, solid insulation and remote sectionalising can support both environmental targets and distribution-automation schemes. Engineers should still evaluate the complete application—including insulation coordination, pollution severity, control power, communications, protection philosophy and local operating practices—rather than selecting equipment from rated voltage alone.

Source note: This is an independent editorial summary prepared by Learn Switchgear. It is not an official Lucy Electric article and contains no sponsored content. Technical data is attributed to the manufacturer. Read the original Lucy Electric announcement and the official product page.