Lecture 12
Electrical substation & protection
Third Year Mechanical Engineering
بـرنامج هـندسـة الـقوى واالالت الكـهربيـة
Dr. Mahmoud Gamal Hemeida
Assistant professor power and machines
electrical substations
• They represent an interface between different levels or sections
of the power system, with the capability to switch or reconfigure the
connections among various transmission and distribution lines.
• On the largest scale, a transmission substation would be the meeting
place for different high-voltage transmission circuits.
• At the intermediate scale, a large distribution station would receive high-
voltage transmission on one side and provide power to a set of primary
distribution circuits.
A sample layout for a distribution substation
The main components of electrical substations
1. Transformers: there are two types of transformers used in substation
• Power Transformers: They play a crucial role in voltage transformation and power delivery
within the substation.
• Instrument Transformers: such as current transformers and voltage transformers,
accurately measure electrical parameters. They step down high currents and voltages to
levels that can be safely measured by instruments and control systems.
2. Circuit Breakers: devices are used to interrupt or break the flow of electricity in a circuit
during abnormal conditions such as short circuits or overloads. They protect the electrical
system from damage and ensure safe operation through
3. Switchgear: is a combination of electrical disconnect switches, fuses, and circuit breakers
used to control, protect, and isolate electrical equipment in the substation. Switchgear helps
maintain system reliability and safety.
4. Busbars: are conductive bars or strips that provide a low-resistance path for electrical
current to flow within the substation. They connect various components, such as
transformers, circuit breakers, and other equipment.
The main components of electrical substations
5. Lightning Arresters: - Function: Lightning arresters, or surge arresters, protect electrical
equipment from high-voltage surges caused by lightning strikes or switching operations. They
divert excess voltage to the ground, preventing damage to substation equipment.
6. Capacitor Banks: improve power factor, provide reactive power support, and stabilize
voltage levels in the electrical system. They enhance system efficiency and reduce energy
losses.
7. Control and Protection Systems: Control and protection systems include relays, control
panels, and monitoring devices that help operators manage and safeguard substation
equipment. They ensure proper operation, detect faults, and initiate protective actions.
8. Grounding Systems: provide a safe path for fault currents to flow to the ground, protecting
personnel and equipment from electrical hazards. Proper grounding ensures the safety and
reliability of the substation.
Effects of current flowing through human body
▪ 1.2ma to produce a slight tingling feeling, called perception threshold
▪ 9ma can produce a painful shock, but still below lock-on conditions
▪ 16ma can cause the loss of muscle control
▪ 23ma can cause difficulty breathing
▪ 50ma approximately can cause burning
▪ 100ma for 3 seconds can cause heart fibrillation
▪ 1 amp for 30ms can cause heart fibrillation
Electrical Grounding Safety
2-Ways to be Safe!
• CONDUCTION – Equipotential Grounding
The use of materials in situations where good conduction (low resistance) will
result in small potential differences and high current flow. (Ground Jumpers)
• ISOLATION – Personal Protective Equipment
The use of materials in situations where good insulation (high resistance) will
result in large voltage differences and low current flow. (Rubber Insulation)
Conduction - Jumper Voltage Drop Protection
Classification of grounding systems
According to function
• EQUIPMENT GROUNDING (SAFETY)
• SYSTEM GROUNDING
• LIGHTNING/SURGE GROUNDING
according to ground techniques
• A single rod
• A group of rods
• Ground plate
• A ground mesh
