Search
IP66 Weatherproof Switched Socket Outlets for Antarctica New Zealand 2.8MW BESS
July 28, 2023
Project Snapshot
Ross Island 2.8MW Battery Energy Storage System
Ross Island, Antarctica
2023 to 2028
Antarctica New Zealand
Outdoor BESS power distribution and auxiliary equipment connection
Project Background
Antarctica New Zealand manages Scott Base on Ross Island. As part of a major infrastructure upgrade, a 2.8MW Battery Energy Storage System was commissioned to replace aging diesel generators and integrate renewable energy sources at one of the harshest environments on Earth.
The project required electrical components rated for continuous 60Hz operation, compliant with Australian and New Zealand standards, and capable of functioning in extreme Antarctic conditions where temperatures routinely drop below minus 25 degrees Celsius.
The Engineering Challenge
Antarctic installations present challenges that conventional electrical products cannot meet. Moisture ingress into socket outlets poses serious risk of short circuits and equipment failure. The maintenance window at Scott Base is limited to the Antarctic summer season from October to February, making component reliability non-negotiable.
All electrical outlets needed to accept standard Australian and New Zealand plugs used by international research teams, operating at 60Hz rather than the 50Hz common in most ANZ installations.
| Requirement | Solution Provided by KRIPAL 56SO310 |
|---|---|
| 60Hz operation for Antarctic infrastructure | Rated 250Vac, 10A, 50/60Hz, fully supporting the 60Hz frequency requirement |
| Complete protection against snow, ice and moisture | IP66 ingress protection, dust tight and protected against powerful water jets |
| Function at extreme low temperatures | Operating range from minus 25 to plus 75 degrees Celsius |
| Automatic sealing when plug is removed | Patented self-sealing transparent cover snaps shut and locks instantly |
| Corrosion resistance in marine environment | Impact resistant ABS housing with corrosion resistant brass contacts |
| Full ANZ standards compliance | Meets AS/NZS 3112:2005 and AS/NZS 4417.1 with CE, CB, UL, VDE, TUV, KEMA, SAA, SEMKO, RoHS, CCC certifications |
The Solution
After evaluating multiple suppliers, the project engineering team selected the KRIPAL 56SO310 as the standard switched socket outlet for BESS auxiliary power distribution throughout Scott Base. The patented transparent self-sealing cover provides immediate visual indication of outlet status and automatically snaps shut when the plug is withdrawn, instantly restoring the IP66 seal.
Project Execution Timeline
- Phase 1 (2023/24 Antarctic Summer): Site preparation, foundation work, and cable routing.
- Phase 2 (2024/25 Antarctic Summer): BESS container delivery and installation.
- Phase 3 (2025/26 Antarctic Summer): System commissioning, grid integration testing and handover.
- Full Operations: The complete energy system upgrade is scheduled for completion by 2028.
How can we assist you?
Tell us a bit more so we can route your request to the right expert.
