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The good and bad practices in the

commissioning of current transformers
in a substation
By Muhammad Kashif   Jun, 5th 2023Save to PDF

Critical Aspects and Considerations

In the previous technical article (check here), we delved into primary injection
testing and the commissioning of current transformers. We explored the primary
and secondary sides of current transformers, learned key concepts and
terminology used by protection engineers, and examined components such as
the current transformer terminal box, junction boxes, and local control cubicles
(LCC) panels that enhance connectivity and control in substations and power
plants.
The good and bad practices in the commissioning of current transformers in a
substation
Additionally, we highlighted the significance of polarity marking in current
transformers to ensure accurate measurement and proper connection.

Now, in this second part, we will go deeper into the commissioning process

of current transformers and discuss various critical aspects and
considerations. The topics we will cover include the following:
We will begin by examining the nameplate of current transformers. The
nameplate provides essential information for identification and usage, including
details such as the total number of cores, protection and metering classes,
available taps, rated thermal current, and rated primary and secondary currents.

Adhering to applicable standards is vital to ensure compliance and optimal

performance.
Addressing non-compliance between the CT nameplate and the single-line
diagram during primary injection testing will be our next point of discussion. It is
crucial to rectify any discrepancies to ensure accurate testing and reliable
operation of the current transformer.
The importance of checking CT secondary test results and conducting
individual tests before performing primary injection testing will be emphasized.
This step ensures the integrity and reliability of the CT’s secondary circuit,
enabling accurate measurements and effective protection.
We will explore the circumstances that warrant primary injection testing.
Understanding when this testing procedure is needed allows engineers to make
informed decisions and maintain the reliability of electrical systems.

Another critical consideration is the prohibition of open-circuiting the current

transformer’s secondary. This section will highlight the potential risks and
detrimental effects of an open circuit, emphasizing the need for proper
connections and precautions during testing and operation.

During primary injection testing, specific aspects need to be verified to

ensure accurate results. These include examining the primary-side polarity
sign convention, investigating case studies of incorrect CT pole/phase polarity,
conducting CT ratio tests, verifying relay and meter CT ratio data, ensuring
phase verification, performing core verification tests, checking for any loose
connections in the CT secondary circuit, conducting the final trip test through
primary injection, and verifying CT polarity using primary injection. These
verification steps are essential for reliable operation and accurate
measurement.
Precautions to be taken during CT primary injection testing will be
discussed, highlighting the importance of gradually increasing current for safety,
fault detection, equipment protection, and test validation. These precautions
ensure a controlled and safe testing environment.
Finally, we will emphasize the significance of a final visual check and CT
terminal tightening test. These steps contribute to the overall integrity and
reliability of the current transformer, ensuring its proper functioning.

By exploring these topics in this technical article, we aim

to provide engineers and professionals with a
comprehensive understanding of the commissioning
process for current transformers.  This knowledge will
enable them to conduct accurate testing, ensure
reliable operation, and provide effective protection in
electrical systems.
Table of Contents:
1. Crucial to know – The nameplate of current transformer:
1. Total number of cores
2. Protection and metering classes
3. Taps available
4. CT secondary and primary terminal details
5. Polarity details
6. Rated thermal current
7. Rated primary and secondary current
8. Applicable standards
2. Addressing non-compliance of CT nameplate with single-line diagram during
primary injection testing
1. Double-check the CT accuracy
2. Consult the manufacturer or supplier
3. Seek guidance from experts
4. Assess the impact on the primary injection test
5. Document and report the discrepancy
6. Take corrective actions
3. Importance of checking CT secondary test results and individual tests prior to
primary injection testing
4. When there is a requirement to conduct a primary injection test?
5. Importance of maintaining a short-circuit condition in current transformer (CT)
circuits: Avoiding open CT loops and ensuring system safety
6. Key verification points in primary injection testing:
1. The sign convention for primary-side polarity in current transformers (CTs)
2. Case study when single CT pole / phase polarity is wrong
3. CT ratio test
4. Relay / Meter CT ratio data verification
5. Phase verification
6. Core verification test
7. Ensuring CT circuit integrity: Detecting loose connections in the CT
secondary circuit
8. Validating protection system functionality: The significance of final trip
testing by primary injection test for fault simulation and circuit breaker
evaluation
9. Verifying CT polarity through primary injection testing
10. Essential precautions for conducting CT primary injection testing
11. Importance of gradually increasing current in primary current injection
testing
 1. Safety
2. Fault detection
3. Equipment protection
4. Test validation
7. Conducting a thorough visual inspection and CT terminal tightening test

1. Nameplate of Current transformer

Every current transformer (CT) is equipped with a nameplate that contains
essential information about its specifications and characteristics. During the
commissioning process, it is crucial for engineers to carefully inspect and verify
the details mentioned on the CT nameplate, comparing them with the provided
schematics or documentation.
The CT nameplate serves as a comprehensive reference, offering valuable
insights into various aspects of the transformer.

Here are the key pieces of information typically found on a CT nameplate:

1.1 Total Number of Cores

This indicates the number of separate cores within the CT assembly. Multiple
cores may be present in cases where different functions or measurements are
required.

1.2 Protection and Metering Classes

CTs are designed to fulfill different purposes, such as protection or metering.
The nameplate specifies the applicable classes for each core, ensuring the CT
is suitable for its intended use.
Figure 1 – Current transformer (CT) nameplate
Figure 1 – Current transformer nameplate
1.3 Taps Available
In some cases, CTs may have multiple tapping points on the primary winding,
allowing for adjustment of the transformation ratio. The nameplate specifies the
available tap settings, providing flexibility for specific applications.

1.4 CT Secondary and Primary Terminal Details

The nameplate displays the configuration and labeling of the CT’s secondary
and primary terminals, indicating how the wiring connections should be
made.

1.5 Polarity Details

Polarity information, such as dot notation or specific markings, may be
included on the nameplate. This assists in ensuring correct installation and
alignment of the CT with the associated electrical circuits and protective
devices.
Figure 2 – 110 kV current transformer nameplate
Figure 2 – 110 kV current transformer nameplate

1.6 Rated Thermal Current

This indicates the maximum continuous current that the CT can handle without
exceeding its temperature limits. It is an essential parameter for determining the
CT’s suitability for the intended application.

1.7 Rated Primary and Secondary Current

The nameplate provides the rated current values for both the primary and
secondary sides of the CT. These values determine the transformation ratio
and help in selecting the appropriate protection and metering devices.
1.8 Applicable Standards
The nameplate often references the relevant standards or specifications that
the current transformer (CT) complies with. This ensures that the CT meets the
required industry guidelines for performance, accuracy, and safety. By carefully
reviewing the information on the CT nameplate and cross-referencing it with the
provided schematics or documentation, commissioning engineers can verify the
CT’s specifications and ensure proper integration into the electrical system.

This thorough verification process helps in preventing errors, ensuring optimal

performance, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.
Figure 3 – Nameplate of the Current Transformer

Figure 3 – Example of the nameplate of a current transformer with two

secondaries

Go back to the Contents Table ↑

2. Addressing Non-Compliance of CT
Nameplate with Single-Line Diagram During
Primary Injection Testing
If you discover that the information on the CT nameplate does not align with the
single-line diagram or schematics during a primary injection test, it is important
to take appropriate steps to rectify the situation.

Here’s what you can do:

2.1 Double-Check the CT Accuracy!

First, carefully review the CT nameplate and the single line diagram or
schematics once again to ensure that there are no misunderstandings or
oversights. Verify that you are comparing the correct information and that there
are no discrepancies or misinterpretations.
Suggested Reading – The most frequent errors in specifying current transformers
(CTs)

2.2 Consult the CT Manufacturer or Supplier!

If there is a clear mismatch between the CT nameplate and the provided
documentation, contact the manufacturer or supplier for clarification. They can
provide insights into the discrepancy and advise on the necessary steps to
resolve the issue.

2.3 Seek Guidance From Experts!

Consult with experienced electrical engineers or professionals who are
knowledgeable in current transformers and electrical system design. They may
be able to provide guidance on how to reconcile the conflicting
information and suggest appropriate solutions.
Premium Membership Required
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medium- and high-voltage engineering fields.
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Related electrical guides & articles

Advice and warnings for proper handling, earthing and testing of current
transformers

Comprehensive Guide to Secondary Injection Testing of the Current Transformers

(Part 2)
Comprehensive Guide to Secondary Injection Testing of the Current Transformers
(Part 1)

Primary injection testing and CTs commissioning in power substations (for true
engineers)

Thumb rules, dos and don’ts in MV/HV switchgear testing and commissioning

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SHOULD know
Premium Membership
Get access to premium HV/MV/LV technical articles, electrical engineering
guides, research studies and much more! It helps you to shape up your
technical skills in your everyday life as an electrical engineer.
MORE INFORMATION

Muhammad Kashif
Muhammad Kashif Shamshad is an Electrical Engineer and has more than 17 years of
experience in operation & maintenance, erection, testing project management,
consultancy, supervision, and commissioning of Power Plant, GIS, and AIS high voltage
substations ranging up to 500 kV HVAC & ±660kV HVDC more than ten years
experience is with Siemens Saudi Arabia. He completed over 20 high voltage
substation projects, Operation & Maintenance of Substations & Power plants in
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia for different electric utilities, including Saudi Electricity
Company (SEC), Saudi Aramco, SABIC, Marafiq, National Transmission & Dispatch
Company (NTDC), WAPDA, and K-Electric. Also, he led testing and commissioning
teams to implement electrical infrastructure projects for many industrial clients (Steel,
Petrochemical, etc.) in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

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Power Substation / Premium Content / Protection / Testing and Commissioning

Primary injection testing and CTs

commissioning in power substations (for
true engineers)
By Muhammad Kashif   May, 29th 2023Save to PDF
Do’s & Don’ts in Primary Injection Testing
Primary injection testing is a vital procedure in the commissioning and
maintenance of current transformers (CTs). These transformers are integral
components of electrical systems, enabling precise measurement and effective
protection of electrical currents. In this article, we will explore the fundamental
concepts of primary injection testing and dive deep into the essential aspects of
current transformer commissioning.

Primary injection testing and CTs commissioning in power substations (for true
engineers)
We’ll begin by understanding the primary and secondary sides of a current
transformer. The primary side is where the current to be measured or protected
flows, typically connected to the power system. On the other hand, the
secondary side provides an output current proportional to the primary current,
utilized for measurement or relaying purposes.
Distinguishing between these sides is crucial for comprehending the role of
current transformers in electrical systems.
To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of current transformer
commissioning, we’ll delve into essential terminology and key concepts. This
includes exploring the significance of components such as the current
transformer terminal box, which serves as a wiring hub for CT secondary
connections, ensuring proper connectivity and control.

Additionally, we’ll examine the role of current transformer junction boxes or

dedicated CT panels in enhancing CT connectivity and control in substations,
streamlining installation and maintenance procedures.
Local control cubicles (LCC) panels play a crucial role in centralized control
and monitoring in substations and power plants. They provide a central hub for
managing and monitoring various equipment, including current transformers,
ensuring smooth operation and prompt response to abnormalities.
Furthermore, we will unveil the significance of polarity marking in current
transformers, which ensures accurate connection and measurement. We shall
explore the marking of primary polarity and the understanding of secondary
polarity marking, shedding light on their importance in achieving precise results.

Figure 1 – Performing primary injection testing on-site

Figure 1 – Performing primary injection testing on-site
In the second part of this article, we’ll delve deeper into multi-core current
transformers. These transformers feature both protection and metering cores,
each serving distinct purposes. The protection core is responsible for overload
protection, fault detection and clearing, and coordination with protective relays.
It is designed to handle high currents and maintain accuracy even under high
saturation conditions.
Conversely, the metering core facilitates accurate measurement of current,
power quality monitoring, data logging, and recording. It operates at a low
saturation point to ensure precise measurement in various conditions.
Understanding the distinct purposes served by protection cores and
metering cores is crucial for designing effective protective and monitoring
systems in current transformers.
Additional considerations in the commissioning process include the role of the
low voltage compartment and the CT loop in medium voltage switchgear. These
components play a vital role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of
current transformers and their integration into switchgear systems.

Finally, we shall explore the concept of CT ratio, which represents the

relationship between primary and secondary currents. Understanding CT ratios
is really essential for accurate current measurement and coordination with
protective relays.
Throughout this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of primary
injection testing and current transformer commissioning, providing engineers
and professionals with the knowledge and understanding required to ensure
accurate measurement and effective protection in electrical systems.

Also, I believe you can find my courses very useful in further studying this and
many other topics related to power substations and relay protection.
Table of Contents:
1. Introduction to primary injection testing
2. Essential Terminology and key concepts for CTs Commissioning
1. CT Terminal Box: Wiring Hub for CT Secondary Connections
2. CT Junction Boxes or Dedicated CT Panels
3. Local Control Cubicles (LCC) Panels: Centralized Control and Monitoring
4. Comprehending the Current Transformer Loop and its Verification
Procedure
5. Polarity Marking in CTs: Ensuring Accurate Connection and Measurement
1. Marking of Primary Polarity in Current Transformers
2. Secondary Polarity Marking in Current Transformers
3. Current Transformer Orientation: CT P1 Towards Line vs. CT P1
Towards Bus
3. Multi-Core Current Transformers
1. Protection Core of Current Transformer
1. Overload Protection
2. Fault Detection and Clearing
3. Coordination with Protective Relays
4. High CT Saturation Point For Protection Cores
2. Metering Core of Current Transformer
1. Accurate Measurement of Current
2. Power Quality Monitoring
3. Data Logging and Recording
 4. Low CT Saturation Point For Metering Cores
4. Distinct Purposes: Protection Cores and Metering Cores in CTs
5. Role of LV Compartment and CT Loop in MV Switchgear
6. Understanding CT Ratio: The Relationship Between Primary and Secondary
Currents
7. Current Transformer Circuit Shorting and Grounding Facility
8. BONUS! 13.8kV and 132kV Substation Single-Line Diagrams (PDF)

1. Introduction to Primary Injection Testing

Primary injection testing is a method used to verify the performance and
functionality of protective devices, such as current transformers, relays, and trip
units, by injecting a calibrated current directly into the primary side of the
equipment. In electrical systems, the terms “primary side” and “secondary
side” refer to different sections of a device or system based on their relative
position in the power flow.
Here’s an explanation of these terms:

Primary Side of CT
The primary side of a device or system is where the input power is received
or supplied. It is typically connected to the higher voltage or higher power side
of the system. In the case of current transformers, the primary side is where the
high-voltage power is delivered, and it is usually connected to the utility power
source or the power generation system.
For example, in a current transformer used in medium voltage level, the primary
side considered as the conductor, where power is being delivered, primary side
of current transformer senses the current flowing in the conductor / busbar /
line.

Figure 2 – Primary and the secondary sides of the HV current transformer
 Figure 2 – Representation of the Primary
and the secondary sides of the HV current transformer

Secondary Side of CT
The secondary side of a device or system is where the output power is
delivered or used. It is typically connected to the lower voltage or lower power
side of the system. In the case of current transformers, the secondary side is
where the stepped-down current is available.
At the CT secondary not only the current but also the voltage is reduced.
For example, if a current transformer primary is connected at 380kV system
voltages and having a CT ratio of 2000/1 Amp, it indicates that if 2000 thousand
amp is flowing through the CT primary then 1 amp will be available at the CT
secondary side, furthermore voltage available at CT secondary will also be low
voltages in order of few volts.

Figure 3 – Medium Voltage Current Transformer (CT)

 Figure 3
– Medium Voltage Current Transformer (CT)
Generally speaking, transformers are used to facilitate coupling whenever the
voltage or current in a power circuit is too high to allow for the direct connection
of measurement instruments or relays. These measuring transformers are
essential for producing a scaled-down duplicate of the input quantity to the
necessary level of precision for the specific measurement.

Figure 4 – Basic representation of the current transformer primary and

secondary sides
Figure 4 – Basic representation of the current transformer primary and
secondary sides

Go back to the Contents Table ↑

2. Terminology and Key Concepts

(Essential For Current Transformers
Commissioning)
To comprehend the commissioning of current transformers, it is vital for
protection engineers to familiarize themselves with specific terminologies
employed during primary injection testing. These terminologies hold
significance in grasping the fundamental concepts related to current transformer
operation and evaluation.

Having covered the primary and secondary sides of current transformers, let’s
now dive into a deeper understanding of the following aspects:
Premium Membership Required
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an annually based Plus, Pro, or Enterprise membership plan. Subscribe and
enjoy studying specialized technical articles, online video courses, electrical
engineering guides, and papers. With EEP’s premium membership, you get
additional essence that enhances your knowledge and experience in low-
medium- and high-voltage engineering fields.
Check out each plan’s benefits and choose the membership plan that works
best for you or your organization.

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Related electrical guides & articles

Comprehensive Guide to Secondary Injection Testing of the Current Transformers

(Part 2)

Comprehensive Guide to Secondary Injection Testing of the Current Transformers

(Part 1)
The good and bad practices in the commissioning of current transformers in a
substation

Technical specification of switchyard equipment in a nutshell (how-to guidelines

and advice)

A case study of a new 220 kV Gas-Insulated Switchyard (GIS) design for a

generation plant

Medium voltage switchgear: Important design considerations and applications

Premium Membership
Get access to premium HV/MV/LV technical articles, electrical engineering
guides, research studies and much more! It helps you to shape up your
technical skills in your everyday life as an electrical engineer.
MORE INFORMATION

Muhammad Kashif
Muhammad Kashif Shamshad is an Electrical Engineer and has more than 17 years of
experience in operation & maintenance, erection, testing project management,
consultancy, supervision, and commissioning of Power Plant, GIS, and AIS high voltage
substations ranging up to 500 kV HVAC & ±660kV HVDC more than ten years
experience is with Siemens Saudi Arabia. He completed over 20 high voltage
substation projects, Operation & Maintenance of Substations & Power plants in
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia for different electric utilities, including Saudi Electricity
Company (SEC), Saudi Aramco, SABIC, Marafiq, National Transmission & Dispatch
Company (NTDC), WAPDA, and K-Electric. Also, he led testing and commissioning
teams to implement electrical infrastructure projects for many industrial clients (Steel,
Petrochemical, etc.) in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Leave a Comment
Tell us what you're thinking. We care about your opinion! Please keep in
mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. So, please
do not use a spammy keyword or a domain as your name, or it will be deleted.
Let's have a professional and meaningful conversation instead. Thanks for
dropping by!
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Power Substation / Premium Content / Transmission and Distribution

A case study of a new 220 kV Gas-

Insulated Switchyard (GIS) design for a
generation plant
By Edvard Csanyi   Jan, 23rd 2023Save to PDF
The Art of a Switchyard Design
This technical article describes detailed planning and design phases of a new
220 kV Gas-Insulated Switchyard (GIS) in a 450 megawatt (MW) coal-fired
combined heat and power plant (CHP) that was being considered for
Ulaanbataar, Mongolia. The project is assumed to have been abandoned or
canceled due to public opposition brought on by Ulaanbaatar’s poor air quality.
Too bad, because no renewable energy project can actually replace this one.
A case study of a new 220 kV Gas-Insulated Switchyard (GIS) design for a
generation plant
However, the subject of this article is a 220 kV Gas-Insulated Switchyard (GIS),
its layout, specification, busbar configuration, cost and finally its
interconnections with generation plant.

Table of Contents:
1. Introduction to 220 kV GIS Switchyard
2. Decisions Taken
1. Decision #1 – GIS or AIS
2. Decision #2 – Busbar Configuration and Design
1. Single Busbar
2. Double Busbar
3. Double Busbar With Transfer Bar Configuration
4. One and a Half Breaker Busbar Configuration
5. Conventional and New Busbar Configuration at New 220kV
Switchyard
3. Decision #3 – Non-Availability
 4. Decision #4 –Point of Connection With CHP and Existing Circuits
3. Observations Concerning 220kV Switchyard Design
1. Standards and Codes
1. Electrical System Parameters
2. Environmental Factors
3. Seismic Data
2. 220kV GIS Switchyard Facilities
1. GIS Components
1. Current Transformers (CTs)
2. Voltage Transformers (VTs)
2. GIS Specifications
3. Installation of 220kV GIS
4. Cable Termination
5. Earthing
6. SCADA
7. Telecommunication Infrastructure

1. Introduction to 220 kV GIS Switchyard

To evacuate power from a new thermal power plant, a small 220 kV GIS
switchyard is needed. A building with dimensions of 130 x 66 meters will house
GIS switchgear with a 245 kV rating. The structure will stand next to the thermal
power plant in a designated switchyard area. The design of the GIS switchgear
will include a double busbar with eight feeder bays, two bus sections, two bus
couplers, and four transformer bays (the thermal generator transformers will be
located within the thermal power plant).

The 220 kV switchyard will have SCADA monitoring hardware. It’s important to
note that the operation of GIS switchgear will require a number of accessories.

Figure 1 – Main components of CHP generation plant

Figure 1 – Main components of CHP generation plant
Figure 2 – 220 kV GIS Area (130 m x 66 m
Figure 2 – 220 kV GIS Area (130 m x 66 m)
Figure 3 – 220 kV GIS Area Zoomed

Figure 3 – 220 kV GIS Area Zoomed

Figure 4 – 220 kV GIS Building Layout
Figure 4 – 220 kV GIS Building Layout
The 220kV GIS switchyard only needs a small footprint, as shown in the site
layout figures above, and its small size allows it to overcome any land
restriction or limitation problems. Additionally, the environment resistivity is high
because all GIS will be housed in a substation building and be enclosed by a
grounded metal case.

The 220kV GIS can operate more effectively in the worst environmental

conditions, such as a minimum temperature of -50 °C in Mongolia, when
compared to the 220kV AIS switchyard, which requires a much higher area and
is always located outside to provide better ventilation.
Ok, let’s get to the essential decisions that must have been made in order to
continue with the project.

Go back to the Contents Table ↑

2. Decisions Taken
Decision #1 – GIS or AIS
Gas Insulation Switchgear or Air Insulated Switchgear?
Let’s remind ourselves of the basics in a few sentences. Substation is a
component of the electrical grid constructed to serve as a connection between
generating units and distribution and transmission networks. Switchgear is a
crucial part of the substation’s load switching or fault-breaking infrastructure. In
our case, conventional Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS) and Gas Insulated
Switchgear (GIS) are taken into consideration when analyzing the options for
the switchgear to be used at 220kV switchyard connected with thermal
power plant.
Due to its small size and electrical safety design, GIS can be located close to
the generation and load centers. The shortest possible underground cable
could be used to connect the generation facility to the GIS substation.

However, for AIS, the AIS substation must be placed further away from the
generation plant and is typically connected by an overhead line due to the
requirement for electric clearance and larger electrical components, such as
breakers and isolators. As a result,  transmission losses between the
generation plant and GIS substation are much lower than that between the
latter and AIS substation.
An example of GIS and AIS footprints comparison and detail comparison study
between the two switchgear types and other details GIS and AIS comparison
study are as follows:

Figure 5 – Example of GIS and AIS footprints comparison

Figure 5 – Example of GIS and AIS footprints comparison
As a result, the plant’s electrical transmission efficiency to the GIS substation
will be significantly higher. Because the GIS panels are grounded at the metal
enclosure, operating a GIS is safer than operating an AIS. Additionally, the
strength of the SF6 insulation means that the electric arc produced when the
mechanism is switched from closed to open is much smaller.
The GIS is typically housed in the substation building, where all operations can
be carried out even in unfavorable weather conditions. However, factors such
as humidity, environmental concerns like rain, storms, and pollutants will have
an impact on the level of air insulation. In the winter or under other unfavorable
conditions, the operation period will also be shortened.
GIS has the benefit of a maintenance-free operation mechanism, whereas
AIS calls for routine mechanism inspection and maintenance. GIS is generally
much shorter than AIS for the operating check-up due to the grounded metal
enclosure and proven reliable gas insulation. The associated pressure gauge
continuously measures the gas insulation pressure level, sending the status to
the central SCADA system for recording and monitoring.
The total enclosed GIS switching mechanism can be resisted insulation
deterioration against the environment and result maintenance free and operating
check-up as minimum.
The initial capital expenditure for the substation includes the cost of the
equipment as well as any associated civil and electrical system interface costs,
like cable costs. Despite having more expensive equipment than AIS, GIS
requires less space to operate and requires less concrete to load its equipment,
which results in lower civil construction costs.

Additionally, GIS only needs shorter cables to connect to the generation plant,
so using GIS will definitely result in lower costs for the interface components
like cables.

Suggested Reading – GIS AC/DC auxiliary circuits and circuit breaker closing
circuit
Mastering GIS control circuits: AC/DC auxiliary circuits
and circuit breaker closing circuit
When that happens, the GIS substation’s total capital cost will be comparable to
the AIS substation’s. In the meantime, a significant issue for long-term
consideration is the cost of operating the substation. The GIS has lower
operational costs than the AIS type because the switching mechanism is
maintenance-free and there are fewer operating inspections required.

Low fault rates and higher reliability will reduce the long-term operational
costs of GIS. The fault rate is influenced by grid reliability, which includes the
fault rate across the entire network, the maximum fault level, and environmental
factors.
So, the adoption of GIS is recommended to provide a high reliability and
efficient switching and protection way in connection with the new coal-fired
combined heat and power plant and the new/existing power lines after taking
into account the safety, technical, environmental, financial, and economical
factors between the GIS and AIS. GIS substation has advantage of compact
size which only 1of 10 times when comparing with AIS substation.
Following table is summarized the comparison between GIS and AIS:

Table 1 – Comparison between GIS and AIS

Comparison of: GIS AIS

Size 10% of AIS 10 times of GIS

Dielectric Superior Normal

clearance

Modular Yes No
assembly

Maintenance Free Periodic

Fault related Lower Higher

outage

Gas monitoring Yes No

Environment Higher Lower

resistivity

The major components of GIS are shown in following figure below.

Each compartment of the GIS is filled with SF6 gas that provides as insulation
and results superior dielectric clearance and compact switchgear size. The high
reliability of GIS will minimize fault outage time and support maintenance free.
However, as the filled SF6 gas pressure to maintain the electrical insulation; the
pressure is continuously monitored by gauges and the signal will not only be
read on site, but also sent out to SCADA system for record and remote
supervision.

Figure 6 – Gas-insulated switchgear structure and components

Figure 6 – Gas-insulated switchgear structure and components

Go back to the Contents Table ↑

Decision #2 – Busbar Configuration and Design

The choice of busbar configuration is another crucial factor in the design of the
switchyard. Following is a discussion of various busbar configurations, including
single busbar, double busbar with or without transfer busbar, and one and a half
busbar:

1. Single Busbar
A single busbar configuration is the simplest and least expensive design.
However, any busbar maintenance or fault will result in a complete substation
switchout. Additionally, any circuit breaker failure on a line or transformer
necessitates the shutdown of the load on that line or transformer.
Distribution substations up to 35 kV use this configuration, but transmission
substations with higher voltage levels and capacity demands, like the new 220
kV switchyard applicable, are not suitable for it.
Figure 7 – Single Busbar arrangement
Figure 7 – Single busbar arrangement
Figure 8 – Switchgear bay with a single busbar arrangement
Figure 8 – Switchgear bay with a single busbar arrangement

Go back to the Contents Table ↑

2. Double Busbar
This type of busbar configuration is a high flexibility one that half the feeder
circuits are being connected to each busbar. Bus-coupler is required for the
normal operation and any feeder circuit can be transfer to any busbar.
The disadvantage of this type is that outage on the circuit breaker of the feeders
will require shut-down of the whole feeder and failure of protection scheme
may cause loss of substation supply.
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MORE INFORMATION
Edvard Csanyi
Electrical engineer, programmer and founder of EEP. Highly specialized for
design of LV/MV switchgears and LV high power busbar trunking (<6300A) in
power substations, commercial buildings and industry facilities. Professional in
AutoCAD programming.

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