A vacuum circuit breaker nameplate should be transcribed into an RFQ as an equipment-identification record, then paired with the system, application, interface, documentation, and project requirements that a label cannot establish. Accurate copying reduces ambiguity, but it does not by itself prove that a replacement or proposed model is suitable.
Part 1. Start With Identification, Not a Replacement Decision
A VCB nameplate is a practical place to begin an inquiry because it identifies the equipment being discussed. It should be copied carefully before any supplier is asked to assess a product route.
The label is not a complete system specification. A procurement team still needs application, interface, documentation, and project requirements before it can request a responsible model-specific response.
Part 2. Transcribe the Nameplate in Field Groups
Copy the label exactly as seen, including prefixes, suffixes, and revision markings. When a field is unreadable or missing, record it as unknown rather than guessing a value from a similar product.
| Field group | What to copy | Why it matters in the RFQ |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer and model identity | Full maker, model, and identifying markings | Keeps the inquiry tied to a specific item |
| Rated information shown on the label | Each stated value with its unit and label wording | Prevents a value being retyped without context |
| Serial or production reference | Visible reference and label image | Helps distinguish units that look similar |
| Mechanical or operating information shown | Exact field names and values where present | Avoids converting label text into an assumption |
| Label condition | Legibility, missing areas, or photo limitations | Shows what still needs confirmation |
The goal is traceability. A clean transcription gives every reviewer the same starting point without turning an incomplete label into a design conclusion.
Part 3. Preserve the Label and Its Context
Keep a clear photograph of the full nameplate and a wider product photograph where permitted by site rules. Include the asset tag, location, and the date the record was captured. This helps a supplier ask focused follow-up questions instead of inferring details from an abbreviated email.
Important: Do not fill an unreadable label field with a value taken from another VCB, catalogue image, or previous quotation. A nameplate is an identification record, and any missing value should remain a confirmation item. The IEC Webstore can help teams locate relevant standards, but it does not approve a project configuration.
Part 4. Add the RFQ Information a Label Cannot Show
The nameplate should be the first attachment, not the entire RFQ. Add the application and project information that determines what must be reviewed beyond the installed label.
| Buyer should provide | Why the label is not enough | Review requested |
|---|---|---|
| Single-line information and application description | A label does not describe the whole system role | Confirm the information needed for model review |
| Panel, mounting, or interface details | Similar VCB labels can sit in different arrangements | Identify interface questions before quotation |
| Existing drawings and approved project documents | The label cannot show all project constraints | State documentation gaps clearly |
| Required test, acceptance, or approval evidence | Requirements are project controlled | Verify what can be supplied for the offered model |
| Replacement objective and outage constraints | A label does not define the procurement plan | Keep the response within the stated scope |
This is also why a label should not be used as a standalone replacement instruction. The CIGRE Electra technical journal is a useful resource for broader power-system context, while the project team remains responsible for its approved design and maintenance process.
Part 5. Keep VCB Sibling Articles in Their Own Roles
This article owns nameplate transcription. Use the 11kV VCB selection inputs article when the discussion is about system inputs beyond a label. Use the VCB panel RFQ checklist when panel requirements need their own evidence list.
For condition-oriented documentation, the vacuum interrupter inspection evidence article is a separate companion. These boundaries keep a nameplate checklist useful without duplicating a selection or inspection guide.
Part 6. Route a Model-Specific FUERTE Inquiry
After transcribing the label and adding system context, contact FUERTE with the complete package. A Vacuum Circuit Breaker route may be discussed when the inquiry identifies the application and evidence required for the offered model.
| Inquiry need | FUERTE route | Boundary |
|---|---|---|
| Begin a model-specific VCB conversation | Vacuum Circuit Breaker | Verify the offered model against project inputs |
| Discuss a column-style product route | Column Vacuum Circuit Breaker | Confirm application and interface before recommendation |
| Submit the evidence package | Contact FUERTE | Attach clear label and project information |
Do not recommend a replacement only because its label appears similar. A nameplate cannot establish system fit, panel fit, protection coordination, project approval, or commissioning requirements.
Part 7. Fit Boundaries for Nameplate Checklists
Use this page to prepare a more reliable inquiry. It does not provide system design, confirm rating compatibility, approve a replacement, or substitute for the required engineering and project review.
FAQ
What is a VCB nameplate used for in an RFQ?
It is an equipment-identification record. Copy it accurately and add the system and project information that the label cannot show.
Which fields should be copied first?
Copy the manufacturer and model identity, all visible labeled values with units, serial or production references, and any visible operating information.
What if the nameplate is damaged or unreadable?
Record the field as unknown, keep a clear photograph, and request confirmation. Do not guess from a similar unit.
Does a nameplate prove that a replacement is compatible?
No. It is a starting record, not a compatibility or approval decision.
Should panel information be included with the label?
Yes. Panel, mounting, and interface details should be provided because a label does not establish those conditions.
Is nameplate transcription the same as vacuum-interrupter inspection?
No. Inspection evidence and label transcription are different activities with different questions.
Which FUERTE page should be used for an inquiry?
Start with the Vacuum Circuit Breaker product route after preparing the label record and project context, then send the package to FUERTE.
Does this article approve a VCB installation or replacement?
No. The responsible project and engineering parties must verify those decisions against the applicable requirements.