Understanding Grid Substation Components
A grid substation is a key part of the power system that helps in transmitting and distributing electricity. It adjusts voltage levels and ensures system safety.
๐ง Main Parts and Their Uses:
โก Surge Arrester with Counter โ Protects equipment from high voltage (lightning or switching) by diverting it to the ground. The counter shows how many surges happened.
๐ CVT (Capacitive Voltage Transformer) โ Reduces high voltage to safe levels for protection and metering.
๐งฒ 3-Phase Disconnecting Switch with Earthing Blades โ Isolates parts of the circuit for maintenance with a clear visible gap.
๐ CT (Current Transformer) โ Converts high current to measurable values for meters and protection systems.
๐ Circuit Breakers โ Stop electricity flow during faults like short circuits or overloads:
๐ซ๏ธ SF6 Circuit Breaker
๐จ Air Circuit Breaker
๐งช Vacuum Circuit Breaker
๐ท Bus Bar โ Carries electricity within the substation, connecting equipment like transformers.
๐ง Auxiliary Transformer โ Steps down voltage for substation internal needs (lights, control panels, etc.).
๐ Power Transformer โ Converts 132kV transmission voltage to 33kV distribution level. (31.5 MVA, ONAN cooling)
๐ก๏ธโ Power Transformer Protection
The differential protection and restricted earth fault (REF) protection.
safety devices like the pressure relief valve and Buchholz relay.
๐งฐโ
Transformer & OLTC Maintenance
The routine transformer health checks (oil testing, insulation resistance).
OLTC (On Load Tap Changer) operation for voltage regulation.
๐โ
Transmission Line Protection Relays
The distance, overcurrent, and directional relays.
The way relays detect faults in real time and improve grid stability.
๐ฆบโ
Safety in High Voltage Work
๐ท๏ธ LOTO (Lock Out Tag Out)
๐ฅฝ PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
๐ Interlocks and ๐ work permits
Understood how safety systems protect technicians and reduce risk.
๐โ
DC System in the Substation
The setup of battery banks, chargers, and DC panels.
The role of DC systems in relay protection and emergency operations.
The maintenance to ensure long-term DC system performance.