Medium Voltage Earthing Systems – Arrangements and Comparison
First, let’s define the different medium voltage earthing systems and then compare the advantages and disadvantages of each one. Earthing systems in medium voltage can be differentiated according to the neutral point connection method. The various earthing systems in medium… Read more
Jul 03, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
Basic Stand-Alone Application of Reclosers
Reclosers are self-contained fault interrupting and reclosing devices, specifically designed for overcurrent protection in secondary distribution systems. Reclosers are situated in selected locations within the overhead distribution network. With the correct protection setting and MV fuse selection coordination, concerning the… Read more
Apr 15, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
Configurations and characteristics of distribution substations
Distribution substations come in many sizes and configurations. A small rural substation may have a nominal rating of 5 MVA while an urban station may be over 200 MVA. Figures 1 through 3 show examples of small, medium, and large… Read more
Apr 13, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
Important primary distribution (radial and loop) system considerations
The primary distribution system is that part of the electric distribution system between the distribution substation and distribution transformers. It is made up of circuits called primary feeders or distribution feeders. These feeders include the primary feeder main or main… Read more
Apr 06, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
6 Transformer Types You Can See In Commercial Installations
Transformers in commercial installations are normally used to change a voltage level from a utility distribution voltage to a voltage that is usable within the building, and are also used to reduce building distribution voltage to a level that can… Read more
Mar 16, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
How can I select the right capacitors for my specific application needs?
Once you’ve decided that your facility can benefit from power factor correction, you’ll need to choose the optimum type, size, and number of capacitors for your plant. There are two basic types of capacitor installations: individual capacitors on linear or… Read more
Feb 13, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
Ring Main Unit (RMU) as an important part of secondary distribution substations
Before getting into “What is RMU” question, let’s say a word about the distribution system where RMU is often used. Distribution systems encompass power lines that transport energy from the transmission network or other sources to consumers, along with the… Read more
Feb 11, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
Important generator set (genset) rating considerations
A generator set (genset) consists of an engine and a generator and it is best to consider each of them as a system. Individually, each has unique characteristics, but together these qualities have a significant impact on the performance and sizing of the genset… Read more
Jan 30, 2015 | By Edvard Csanyi
Main and Transfer (Inspection) Bus Arrangement commonly used in AIS
The main and transfer bus configuration connects all circuits between the main bus and a transfer bus (sometimes referred to as an inspection bus). Some arrangements include a bus tie breaker and others simply utilize switches for the tie between… Read more
Aug 13, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
Site selection considerations for the future power substation
At this stage, a footprint of the future power substation should be developed, including the layout of the major equipment. A decision on the final location of the facility can now be made and various options can be evaluated. Final grades,… Read more
Jul 30, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
Satellite communication for remote control and monitoring of substations
Substation Automation is a supervisory management and control system that lies in between transmission and distribution systems. The interests on substation automation have been increasing rapidly due to its numerous benefits to utilities. It has advanced further than a traditional… Read more
Jul 28, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
What engineers should know about using conduits in power substation designs
There are several locations where conduit is used in power substation designs. The most common one considered is conduit used to provide cable access to equipment, such as breakers, transformers, instrument transformers, and motor-operated disconnect switches located in the yard… Read more
Jul 25, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
Microprocessor and conventional secondary systems compared
Secondary systems are all those facilities needed to ensure reliable operation of the primary system, e.g. a high voltage substation. They cover the functions of controlling, interlocking, signalling and monitoring, measuring, counting, recording and protecting. With conventional secondary systems, the… Read more
Jul 09, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
Arriving at the scene of a substation fire. What should you do first?
Power substations contain transformers, large quantities of oil, energized electrical equipment and, in some cases, cylinders of compressed gas. Some of the oil may contain polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). On arriving at a substation fire, normally you should first call for firefighters… Read more
Jun 23, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
Why is continuous on-line monitoring of partial discharge in the switchgear necessary?
Not sure? You know that periodical maintenance test like partial discharge test can still leave switchgear in virtually unknown condition. Insulation defects and deterioration may very well develop in service within maintenance cycle. These defects are often not detectable with… Read more
Jun 16, 2014 | By Edvard Csanyi
