Key takeaways

True to the motto "challenge is also an opportunity", Schaltbau, together with ODCA, wants to actively address the lack of standards in the DC sector. For the launch of the NExT Factory, Schaltbau, on its own initiative and with the support of experts, has provided all the necessary proof that the NExT Factory is state-of-the-art. In addition to a system FMEA, an internal "E-check" was carried out. Grid operators were involved in Schaltbau's DC concept from very beginning. The protection concept of the NExT Factory is selectively divided into zones, and the combination of measuring instruments, fuses and DC contactors ensures reliable operation. In addition, intelligent and more responsive DC protection devices will be required in the future, for example to detect impending short-circuits ad hoc and to limit them during the transition process.  

More information

https://www.schaltbau.com/en/company/sustainability/next-factory-efficient-smart-green/

https://news.schaltbau.com/schaltbau-opens-next-factory-in-velden/

https://news.schaltbau.com/schaltbau-wins-german-innovation-award-2024/

https://news.schaltbau.com/schaltbau-wins-german-award-for-sustainability-projects/

https://news.schaltbau.com/schaltbau-wins-energy-efficiency-award-2024/

https://news.schaltbau.com/schaltbau-wins-german-excellence-award-2025/

Future DC plans

Expansion  

We have our own in-house machine engineering department that designs and builds our production facilities. This team has already successfully developed and constructed our first DC-powered production facility and will continue to build only DC-based systems in the future.

Whenever possible, new equipment acquisitions will be made in DC variants to further support our transition. Additionally, we have already started converting our ventilation systems to DC technology.