Substation Design Course

This course is ideal for professionals working in electrical engineering and the utility industry who are responsible for the design, implementation, or management. It is particularly beneficial for:

• Engineers and designers tasked with substation design and development.
• Professionals involved in the planning and operation of electrical utilities.
• Technicians and consultants who oversee equipment and maintenance.
• Project managers and planners working on power systems and infrastructure projects.

DAY ONE

Section 1: Basic Design Parameters – Single Line Diagram

Objective: Understand the key design considerations, including environmental and regulatory factors.

Single Line Diagram (SLD) Overview

• Introduction to SLD, its role in substation design, and interpreting SLDs for various configurations.

Design Influencing Factors

• Environmental considerations: Altitude, wind, ambient temperature, and seismic areas.
• Site-specific requirements and constraints.
• Impact of these factors on equipment choice and configuration.

Industry Standards and Practices

• Overview of domestic and international standards for substation design (e.g., IEEE, IEC).
• Understanding how these standards guide the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of substation designs.

Substation Configuration Variations

• Why subs are configured differently based on their function, environmental factors, and grid requirements.
• Case studies highlighting different configurations for similar functions.

Section 2: Power Transformers

Objective: Explore transformer types, applications, and their role in substations.

Overview of Transformer Types

• Step-up vs. step-down transformers and their specific roles in distribution systems.
• Autotransformers and their application in voltage regulation.

Cooling Methods for Transformers

• Understanding ONAN, ONAF, OFAF, OFWF cooling methods and how they impact transformer ratings and performance.
• The role of cooling in extending transformer life and ensuring operational efficiency.

Transformer Configurations and Components

• Discussion of transformer winding configurations: Delta-Wye, Wye-Wye, etc.
• Components: core, windings, tap changers, bushings, cooling fans, and radiators.
• General arrangement of a power transformer.

Section 3: Switchgear

Objective: Understand the function and types of switchgear used in subs.

Introduction to Switchgear

• Definition and purpose of switchgear in electrical engineering and substation design.
• Difference between Low Voltage (LV), Medium Voltage (MV), and High Voltage (HV) switchgear.

Types of Switchgear and Their Applications

• Overview of LV switchgear and typical industry applications.
• Explanation of components such as circuit breakers, fuses, isolators, and relays.

Safety Features

• Discussion of the critical safety features employed in switchgear, including arc flash protection, grounding, and interlocks.

Section 4: Lightning Protection Systems

Objective: Learn about lightning protection systems and their importance in substations.

Introduction to Lightning Protection

• Overview of how lightning strikes affect power systems and the role of protection systems in mitigating risk.

Components of a Lightning Protection System

• Components such as lightning rods, surge arresters, ground wires, and grounding systems.

• Design considerations to protect equipment from high-voltage surges caused by lightning.

Best Practices for Lightning Protection

• International standards and best practices for designing effective lightning protection systems.

DAY TWO

Section 5: Control System Components

Objective: Gain familiarity with control system components.

Standard Components and Applications

• Overview of critical components such as Push Buttons (PB), TNC control switches, selector switches, time delay relays, and indicating lamps.
• Discussion of terminal blocks and how they help in wiring and control.

Applications and Functions

• How these control components are integrated into operations for safe and efficient performance.
• Real-world examples of control system setups.

Section 6: Substation AC/DC Auxiliary Power Systems

Objective: Understand the role of auxiliary power systems and how they are configured.

Introduction to AC/DC Aux Power Systems

• Overview of the auxiliary systems required for the proper functioning of a sub.

Classification of Loads

• Categorization of loads into vital, essential, and non-essential.
• How to prioritize and supply these loads based on their importance.

AC and DC Power Distribution

• Basics of AC and DC auxiliary power systems, including distribution methods and load management.

Auxiliary Transformer Sizing

• Practical case study on transformer sizing, considering factors like load requirements, system capacity, and redundancy.

Section 7: Substations and the Smart Grid

Objective: Learn about the role of subs in modern smart grid technology and challenges in connectivity.

Smart Grid Overview

• Definition of the smart grid and its significance in modern electrical utilities.

Integration of Substations into the Smart Grid

• How substations are connected to smart grids for enhanced monitoring, control, and performance.
• Role of digital subs and automated systems in supporting smart grids.

Challenges in Connectivity and Performance

• Key issues related to integrating subs with smart grids, including communication protocols, cybersecurity, and data management.

Solutions for Improved Performance

• Best practices for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of smart grid-connected subs.

COURSE TIMETABLE

Both days:
Start: 8:00 a.m.
Coffee Break: 10:00 a.m.
Lunch: 12:00 noon
Restart: 1:15 p.m.
Finish: 4:30 p.m.