Connected Solutions

As the demand for energy increases, it's critical we rethink our grid architecture. 3M is at the forefront of helping utilities/grid operators shift their electrical grid technologies to a more sustainable future.

Learn more about connected solutions

Turning the grid into data

You can't solve a problem unless you know it's there. 3M grid solutions help utilities/grid operators extend the life of their existing infrastructure assets by retrofitting them with sensors, gaining insights into problems before a failure.

Here's how 3M can help:

Consumers in Command

The days of the passive energy consumer are rapidly coming to an end. As consumers take more responsibility and control over their energy usage, while increasing that usage through Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchains, the need for data transparency will increase.
Distributed Energy Resources

Integrating renewable power generation technologies at a local level that connect to the larger power grid will help ease strained systems, and provide more consistent reliability.
The Rise of Smart Cities

As cities look to better manage their electrical infrastructure, collecting and analyzing data has become a key component to optimizing their systems. To gain operational efficiencies, local authorities and utilities need to multi-directionally share this data so electrical systems can reduce usage by reacting to the needs of their environment.

What are 3M's strategic priorities to get there?

Focus on Medium Voltage (MV) Infrastructure

Outages have widespread impacts. With distributed intelligence, i.e. high-accuracy sensing in MV environments, you can gain critical insights.
Prioritize Future-Fitting, Not Costly Rip and Replace

The ideal business case for Grid Modernization is one that combines extending the life of current assets in a cost-effective manner… while preparing for future grid opportunities.

Upgrade your existing infrastructure with 3M™ Sensored Cable Accessories

Voltage and Current Measurement Made Easy

The 3M™ Sensored Cable Accessory QX-Generation 2.0 enables you to measure critical parameters (voltage, current, phase angle) in an underground MV electrical network. This solution incorporates highly accurate Voltage and Current measurement integrated into a medium voltage accessory: which means you get precise measurements without modification of the installed equipment. Additionally, the sensors are passive components thereby not requiring an external power source for sensing.

3M proprietary connection system and cold shrink technology technology provides customers with an easy and fast installation for a wide range of cable cross sections.

Real-Time Data for underground systems for primary medium voltage equipment.

High Accuracy
Economical
Quick and Easy Installation
Factory Calibrated
Short Design
Voltage and Current Sensors Integrated into One Product
Galvanic Isolation Through Capacitor
Wide broad compatibility with third-party manufacturers
Voltage and current sensing through one connection

Sensored Termination

3M™ Sensored Cable Termination QX-2.0 93-ES 620-1 TI24-vi1-C
Sensored Plug-In

3M™ Sensored Cable Separable Plug-In QX-2.0 93-EES 620-1 BI24-vi1-C
Sensored Insulating Plug

3M™ Insulating Plug Voltage Sensor (3M IPVS)

Navigate the challenges of the evolving grid

Learn how sensors and cable accessories work together

3M Sensored Cable Accessories combine industry-standard medium voltage cable accessories with high-accuracy voltage and current sensors. 3M IPVS can interface with various monitoring and control devices. Additionally, the existing equipment can be retrofitted using 3M industry-standard retrofit components within the required cable accessory.

Download Brochure (PDF, 3.9 MB)

Global Focus

We are actively developing predictive maintenance products that are tailored to US and Global Markets, including sensored cable accessories, along with monitoring and analytics platforms