A 2003 Space Quality Inspection Sheet Reveals: How Zhejiang Sangao's Electrical Equipment Carried the Mission of Power Supply at the Launch Site

​Do you remember the early morning of October 15, 2003? As the Shenzhou V manned spacecraft ignited and lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, behind every light and every operating device in the ground control room lay a group of "unsung heroes"—among them, the "heart of power" produced by Zhejiang Sangao Electric.

In the 10kV distribution room responsible for the crucial power supply for the Shenzhou V launch, three devices bearing the "Zhejiang Sangao" label were online throughout the entire process: the ZW32-12 load switch, the FN5-12R load switch, and the HY5WS-12.7/50W lightning arrester. While these names may sound demanding, they perform life-saving tasks—a single spark in the power distribution system during a spacecraft launch could rewrite history.

Traditional Chinese products escort the "Shenzhou V"! Sangao brand switches appeared at the Jiuquan launch site, this wave of operations is stable​

"Technologically advanced, unadulterated, and quality as stable as a stabilizing force!" The Jiuquan Launch Center gave the Sangao switchgear a rare high rating in its feedback document. Under extreme operating conditions of ultra-high voltage, high current, and 24/7 continuous operation, this batch of switchgear withstood the pressure of continuous operation. The after-sales team was on call 24 hours a day, and even the launch countdown was not delayed.

One aerospace engineer privately joked, "During launch, I'm most afraid of a draft in the distribution room, but Sangao's equipment is textbook quiet." This confidence stems from the fact that domestically produced power equipment played a crucial role in a manned space mission for the first time. The project manager revealed that even the temperature differential coefficient of a single screw was carefully considered during product selection, and Sangao responded to all doubts with a zero-failure record.

Twenty years later, this "Product Usage Feedback" with its red seal has long since yellowed, but the message at its conclusion remains resonant: "Adhere to promises, prioritize quality, and build a shield for the nation." Today, the new explosion-proof switches of Sangao have been used in the new generation of space launch sites, and the "old buddies" who escorted Shenzhou V back then are still waiting in the distribution room in Jiuquan for the next miracle of flying.

​FAQs About Zhejiang sangao’s Products in Shenzhou-5

Q: What exactly do load switches and arresters do in a power system?

A: Load switches control the flow of electricity, while arresters protect equipment from voltage spikes. Both are vital for keeping power systems stable—especially in high-stakes settings like space launch centers.

Q: Did any issues come up with the products during use?

A: No. Feedback notes the products performed well with no reported issues, from installation through the launch.

Q: Why is Zhejiang sangao’s role in Shenzhou-5 significant?

A: It shows their products meet the strict standards of national defense and space missions—proof of their reliability.