SUBSTATION

An electrical substation is a crucial component of power distribution systems, facilitating the transfer
of electricity between transmission and distribution networks. Substations come in various types,
including:

1) Step-Up Substations: Increase voltage levels for efficient long-distance transmission.

2) Step-Down Substations: Decrease voltage levels for local distribution to consumers.

3) Outdoor Substations: Typically housed in open areas, they include transformers, circuit
breakers, and other equipment.

4) Indoor Substations: Enclosed within buildings or structures, offering protection against

environmental factors.

5) Mobile Substations: Portable units for temporary power supply during emergencies or
maintenance.
Each type serves specific operational needs, ensuring reliable electricity delivery.

OUTDOOR SUBSTATION
Overview:-

1. Function: The primary function of a 33/11kV outdoor substation is to transform high-voltage

electricity received from transmission lines at 33kV to a lower voltage of 11kV suitable for distribution
to end-users. This voltage transformation is essential for minimizing transmission losses and ensuring
efficient power distribution.

2. Location: Outdoor substations are typically situated in open areas, away from densely populated
zones, to mitigate potential safety hazards and minimize the impact of electromagnetic fields on
nearby communities. However, they should be strategically located to facilitate easy access for
maintenance and repair operations.

3. Design Considerations: The design of outdoor substations takes into account factors such as site
topography, soil conditions, environmental regulations, and proximity to load centers. It emphasizes
safety, reliability, and minimal environmental impact while optimizing space utilization and
operational efficiency.

Components:-

1. Transformers: Transformers are the heart of the substation, responsible for voltage
transformation. Step-down transformers reduce the incoming voltage from 33kV to 11kV, while
maintaining the frequency of the electrical power.

2. Circuit Breakers: Circuit breakers serve as protective devices, interrupting the flow of electricity
in case of overload, short circuit, or other faults to prevent damage to equipment and ensure system
stability.

3. Isolators: Isolators, also known as disconnect switches, are used to physically isolate sections of
the electrical network for maintenance or repair purposes. They provide an extra layer of safety by
ensuring that circuits can be de-energized before work begins.

4. Surge Arresters: Surge arresters protect the substation equipment from voltage surges caused
by lightning strikes, switching operations, or other transient disturbances. They divert excessive
voltage to the ground, safeguarding sensitive components from damage.
5. Lightning Arresters: Lightning arresters, similar to surge arresters, are specifically designed to
protect the substation against lightning-induced surges. They provide a low-resistance path for
lightning currents to dissipate safely into the ground, minimizing the risk of equipment failure.

6. Busbars: Busbars are conductive bars or strips that interconnect various components within the
substation, such as transformers, circuit breakers, and disconnect switches. They facilitate the
transfer of electrical power between different parts of the substation with minimal energy loss.

7. Control Equipment: Control equipment, including relays, meters, and monitoring

devices, is essential for supervising and managing the operation of the substation. It enables remote
monitoring, fault detection, and control of equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Advantages:
❖ Space Efficiency: Outdoor substations require less space compared to indoor substations,
making them suitable for locations where land availability is limited.
❖ Cost-Effectiveness: Construction and maintenance costs for outdoor substations are generally
lower than indoor substations due to simpler infrastructure requirements.
❖ Accessibility: Outdoor substations are easier to access for maintenance and repair activities,
leading to reduced downtime and improved reliability.

Disadvantages:
❖ Environmental Exposure: Outdoor substations are susceptible to environmental factors such as
extreme weather conditions, pollution, and vandalism, which can affect their performance and
longevity.
❖ Security Concerns: Due to their accessibility, outdoor substations may be vulnerable to
unauthorized access, theft, and sabotage, necessitating additional security measures to protect
critical infrastructure.
❖ Maintenance Challenges: While outdoor substations are easier to access for routine
maintenance, they may require more frequent inspections and repairs due to exposure to
outdoor elements and environmental wear and tear.

Overall, despite some drawbacks, 33/11kV outdoor substations play a crucial role in ensuring reliable
and efficient power distribution, especially in areas where space and cost considerations are
paramount.

We visited four outdoor substation under BARASAT division , the names are following:-
1. Barasat substation (spread out)
2. Abdalpur Substation
3. Anantapur Substation
4. Nilganj Substation
Single line diagram (SLD):-
A single line diagram is like a simplified map of an electrical system. It's like having a clear, easy-to-follow
guidebook that shows how all the parts of the system are connected and how electricity flows through them.
This diagram makes it much simpler to understand complex electrical setups, which can be pretty daunting
at first glance.
Here are the SLD for above mentioned four substations:-
Barasat substation (spread out)

Abdalpur Substation

Anantapur Substation

Nilganj Substation
 INDOOR SUBSTATION

Overview:-

1. Purpose:- A 33/11kV indoor substation functions as a vital intermediary in the electricity

distribution network, transforming high-voltage electricity from transmission lines at 33kV to a lower
voltage of 11kV for local distribution to consumers.

2. Location:- Unlike outdoor substations, indoor substations are situated within enclosed structures
or buildings, providing protection against environmental elements and unauthorized access.

3. Design Considerations:- Indoor substations are designed to optimize space utilization while
ensuring safety, reliability, and ease of maintenance. They incorporate various components and
systems to facilitate voltage transformation, protection, and control.

Components:-

1. Transformers:- Step-down transformers are utilized to lower the voltage from 33kV to 11kV,
enabling safe distribution to consumers.

2. Circuit Breakers:- These devices protect the substation and connected equipment by interrupting
the flow of electricity in case of overloads, faults, or short circuits.

3. Switchgear:- Switchgear assemblies comprise switches, disconnectors, and fuses, providing control
and isolation of electrical circuits within the substation.

4. Control and Protection Systems:- Sophisticated control and protection systems monitor and
manage the substation's operation, ensuring optimal performance and responding swiftly to
abnormal conditions or faults.

Advantages:-
1. Environmental Protection:- Being indoors, these substations are shielded from adverse weather
conditions, reducing the risk of equipment damage and improving reliability.

2. Security:- Indoor substations offer enhanced security against vandalism, theft, and unauthorized
access, safeguarding critical infrastructure and minimizing operational disruptions.

3. Space Efficiency:- They require relatively less land compared to outdoor substations, making them
suitable for urban areas where space is limited.

Disadvantages:-

1. Cost:- The construction and maintenance costs of indoor substations are generally higher due to
the need for specialized building infrastructure and ventilation systems.

2. Ventilation and Cooling Requirements:- Adequate ventilation and cooling systems are essential
to dissipate heat generated by equipment, adding complexity and cost to the substation design and
operation.

3. Maintenance Challenges:- Despite protection from environmental factors, indoor substations may
pose challenges for maintenance personnel due to confined spaces and accessibility issues.

Overall, 33/11kV indoor substations offer significant advantages in terms of reliability, security, and
environmental protection, albeit with some associated costs and maintenance considerations.

We visited three indoor substation under BARASAT division , the names are following:-
1. Sishirkunja Substation
2. Kishalay Substation
3. Larica Township Substation

Single line diagram (SLD):-

A single line diagram is like a simplified map of an electrical system. It's like having a clear, easy-to-follow
guidebook that shows how all the parts of the system are connected and how electricity flows through them.
This diagram makes it much simpler to understand complex electrical setups, which can be pretty daunting
at first glance.
Here are the SLD for above mentioned four substations:-

Sishirkunja Substation

Kishalay Substation

Larica Township Substation

Component use
-:Transformer:-

Introduction to Transformers:-

Transformers are essential electrical devices used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to
another through electromagnetic induction. They operate on the principle of Faraday's law of
electromagnetic induction, where a changing magnetic field induces a voltage in a nearby conductor.
Transformers are ubiquitous in power transmission and distribution systems, converting voltage levels
to facilitate efficient electricity transfer over long distances.
The basic operation of a transformer involves two coils of wire, known as windings, wound around a
core made of ferromagnetic material. When an alternating current (AC) flows through the primary
winding, it generates a magnetic field in the core. This magnetic field induces a voltage in the
secondary winding, leading to the transfer of electrical energy from the primary to the secondary
circuit.

Transformers play a crucial role in stepping up or stepping down voltage levels to match the
requirements of various electrical systems, including power generation, transmission, and
distribution, as well as industrial and residential applications.

Types of Transformers:

1. Step-Up Transformer: A step-up transformer increases the voltage level from the primary winding
to the secondary winding. It is commonly used in power transmission to raise the voltage for efficient
long-distance transmission, reducing energy losses.

2. Step-Down Transformer: Conversely, a step-down transformer decreases the voltage level from the
primary winding to the secondary winding. It is employed in power distribution systems to reduce
high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to safer levels for consumer use.

3. Isolation Transformer: An isolation transformer electrically isolates the primary and secondary
windings, providing galvanic isolation between circuits. It is used to protect sensitive equipment from
voltage spikes, reduce noise, and ensure safety in electrical systems.

4. Autotransformer: An autotransformer has a single winding that serves both as the primary and
secondary winding. It is used for voltage regulation and to provide a variable output voltage.

5. Distribution Transformer: Distribution transformers are used in power distribution networks to step
down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages suitable for residential and
commercial use.

6. Instrument Transformer: Instrument transformers, including current transformers and voltage

transformers, are used to measure current and voltage levels accurately in power systems for
monitoring and protection purposes.

Each type of transformer serves specific functions in electrical systems, contributing to the efficient
generation, transmission, distribution, and utilization of electrical energy.

Transformer Core:
The transformer core serves as the magnetic pathway for the transfer of energy between the primary
and secondary windings. It is typically made of laminated sheets of high-permeability ferromagnetic
materials such as silicon steel or amorphous metal. These materials reduce eddy current losses by
providing a path of least resistance for the magnetic flux generated by the windings. The core is
constructed from thin insulated laminations stacked together to form a solid structure, with each
lamination coated with an insulating varnish to minimize eddy currents. The shape and arrangement
of the core (core-type or shell-type) impact factors such as efficiency, size, and cost of the
transformer. Maximizing the stacking factor helps reduce magnetic flux leakage and improve
transformer efficiency.

Transformer Windings:
Transformers have two sets of windings: primary and secondary. The primary winding is connected to
the input voltage source, while the secondary winding is connected to the load. These windings
consist of insulated copper or aluminum conductors wound around the core. The primary winding
with more turns induces a higher voltage in the core, while the secondary winding with fewer turns
experiences a lower voltage, achieving the desired step-up or step-down transformation. Proper
winding design is crucial for achieving the desired voltage transformation ratio, minimizing losses, and
ensuring efficient energy transfer.

Insulation:
Insulation is used to prevent electrical breakdown between turns or layers of the windings and ensure
the safety and reliability of the transformer. Insulation materials such as paper, oil, or synthetic
materials are employed for this purpose. In addition to providing electrical insulation, the insulation
system also helps dissipate heat generated during operation and protects the windings from
environmental factors and mechanical damage. Proper insulation design and maintenance are
essential for the long-term performance and reliability of the transformer, as insulation degradation
can lead to insulation failure, reduced efficiency, and potential safety hazards. Regular testing and
monitoring of insulation integrity are critical aspects of transformer maintenance.

Transformers cooling system:-

Transformers employ various cooling methods to dissipate heat generated during operation, ensuring
optimal performance and preventing overheating. The choice of cooling method depends on factors
such as transformer size, application, and environmental conditions. Here are the common types of
cooling methods used in transformers:

1. Oil Immersed (Oil-filled) Cooling:-

- In oil-immersed cooling, the transformer core and windings are immersed in transformer oil, which
serves as both a cooling medium and electrical insulator.
- The oil absorbs heat generated during operation and transfers it away from the core and windings
to the transformer tank and surrounding environment.
- Oil-immersed transformers may have natural convection cooling, where heat dissipation occurs
through natural circulation of oil, or forced oil circulation cooling, where oil is circulated using pumps
or fans for enhanced cooling efficiency.

2. Dry Type (Air-Cooled) Cooling:-

- Dry type transformers use air as the cooling medium instead of oil, making them suitable for
indoor installations where oil-filled transformers are not preferred.
- Air-cooled transformers rely on natural convection or forced air circulation through cooling fins or
coils to dissipate heat.
- These transformers are environmentally friendly, require minimal maintenance, and eliminate the
risk of oil leaks or spills. However, they are typically less efficient than oil-immersed transformers for
large power ratings.

3. Forced Oil/Air Cooling:-

- Some transformers combine both oil and air cooling methods for improved heat dissipation.
- In forced oil/air cooling systems, fans or blowers are used to force air over the surface of the
transformer tank, enhancing the cooling effect of the oil.
- This method is often employed in large power transformers where additional cooling capacity is
required to handle higher loads and maintain optimal operating temperatures.

4. Water-Cooled Cooling:-
-Water-cooled transformers use water as a coolant instead of oil or air. Water is circulated through
cooling tubes or channels integrated into the transformer tank.
This cooling method is suitable for applications where space or environmental constraints limit the
use of air-cooled or oil-immersed transformers.
Water-cooled transformers offer efficient heat dissipation and can handle high-power densities,
making them ideal for specific industrial or marine applications.

Each cooling method has its advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on factors such as
transformer size, location, environmental conditions, and application requirements. Proper cooling is
essential for maintaining transformer reliability, efficiency, and longevity.

Working principle of transformer:-

At the heart of a transformer's operation lies the flow of alternating current (AC) through its primary
coil. This AC current generates a dynamic magnetic field surrounding the primary coil, continually
shifting in intensity and direction as the current alternates. This changing magnetic field is
fundamental to the transformer's ability to induce voltage in the secondary coil.

As the magnetic field changes around the primary coil, it induces a magnetic flux within the iron core
of the transformer. This flux, represented by magnetic field lines, penetrates both the primary and
secondary coils, linking them together. This process is crucial for the transfer of energy from the
primary to the secondary circuit.

According to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, any change in the magnetic flux linked with
a coil induces an electromotive force (EMF) or voltage in that coil. In the transformer, this changing
magnetic flux linking with the secondary coil leads to the induction of voltage within it. This
phenomenon of inducing voltage in the secondary coil due to the changing magnetic field of the
primary coil is known as mutual inductance.

The induced voltage in the secondary coil is directly proportional to the rate of change of the
magnetic flux linking with it. This relationship forms the basis of the transformer's functionality,
allowing it to step up or step down the voltage depending on the ratio of turns in the primary and
secondary coils. If the secondary coil has more turns, the transformer steps up the voltage; if the
primary coil has more turns, it steps down the voltage.

When a load is connected to the secondary coil, the induced voltage becomes available across its
terminals. Current flows through the load, completing the circuit and allowing electrical energy to be
transferred from the primary to the secondary circuit. This process enables the transformer to fulfill
its role in electrical power distribution, adapting voltages to suit various applications while
maintaining the principles of energy conservation.

Current Transformer

Introduction:
Current transformers (CTs) are vital components in electrical systems, playing a crucial role in
measuring and monitoring electrical currents. They are extensively used in various applications,
including power generation, transmission, distribution, and industrial processes. CTs are designed to
transform high currents into proportional, manageable currents suitable for measurement and
protection purposes.

Overview:
A current transformer consists of a primary winding, through which the main current flows, and a
secondary winding connected to the measuring or protective devices. The primary winding is typically
made of a few turns of heavy-gauge wire or a bus bar, while the secondary winding has many more
turns of fine wire. This configuration allows CTs to produce a reduced current in the secondary circuit,
proportional to the primary current, with minimal burden on the primary circuit.

Purpose of Current Transformers:

The primary purpose of current transformers is twofold: measurement and protection.

1. Measurement: CTs provide accurate measurement of current flowing through a circuit. By

transforming high currents into a standard secondary current, they enable instruments such as
ammeters, wattmeters, and energy meters to display and record electrical consumption accurately.
This measurement capability is essential for billing purposes, load monitoring, and power quality
analysis.

2. Protection: CTs play a critical role in protecting electrical equipment and personnel from
overcurrent conditions. They are integrated into protective relay systems to detect abnormal
currents, such as short circuits or overloads, and initiate protective actions such as circuit breaker
tripping. By accurately sensing fault currents and providing timely signals to protective devices, CTs
help prevent equipment damage, minimize downtime, and ensure the safety of personnel working
with electrical systems.

In summary, current transformers are indispensable components in electrical systems, serving the
dual purposes of accurate current measurement and reliable protection against overcurrent
conditions. Their widespread adoption across various industries underscores their importance in
ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and safety of electrical power systems.

-:Potential Transformer:-
Introduction:
Potential transformers (PTs), also known as voltage transformers, are essential devices in electrical
power systems for measuring and monitoring voltage levels. They serve a critical role in transforming
high voltages to lower, standardized levels suitable for measurement and protection purposes. PTs
are widely deployed in power generation, transmission, distribution, and industrial applications,
enabling accurate voltage measurement and reliable system protection.

Overview:
A potential transformer typically consists of a primary winding connected across the high-voltage
source and a secondary winding connected to the measuring or protective devices. Similar to current
transformers (CTs), PTs utilize a ratio of turns between the primary and secondary windings to step
down the voltage to a standardized level. This configuration allows PTs to produce a reduced voltage
in the secondary circuit proportional to the primary voltage, with minimal loading effect on the
primary circuit.

Purpose of Potential Transformers:

The primary purposes of potential transformers are also twofold: measurement and protection.

1. Measurement: PTs facilitate accurate measurement of voltage levels within electrical systems. By
stepping down high voltages to standardized levels compatible with measuring instruments such as
voltmeters, power analyzers, and protective relays, PTs enable precise monitoring of voltage
fluctuations, power quality analysis, and system performance assessment. Voltage measurement
accuracy provided by PTs is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring compliance
with regulatory standards.

2. Protection: Similar to CTs, PTs play a crucial role in protecting electrical equipment and personnel
from voltage-related faults and hazards. They are integrated into protective relay systems to detect
abnormal voltage conditions, such as overvoltage or undervoltage, and initiate protective actions such
as circuit breaker operation or alarm signals. By accurately sensing voltage deviations and providing
timely signals to protective devices, PTs help prevent equipment damage, mitigate risks of insulation
failure, and ensure the safety of personnel working with electrical systems.

In summary, potential transformers are indispensable components in electrical power systems,

serving the dual purposes of accurate voltage measurement and reliable protection against voltage-
related faults. Their widespread use underscores their importance in maintaining system reliability,
efficiency, and safety across diverse industrial and commercial applications.

Circular Breaker
Circuit breakers are critical components in electrical substations, especially in the 33/11 kV
distribution system, where they play a vital role in protecting equipment, maintaining system
reliability, and ensuring the safety of personnel. In substations, circuit breakers are installed at key
points along the transmission and distribution networks to interrupt the flow of electrical current in
case of faults, overloads, or abnormal conditions. They provide essential protection against short
circuits, overcurrents, and other electrical faults, thereby preventing damage to transformers,
switchgear, and other substation equipment.
Types of Circuit Breakers Used in Electrical Substations:

1. Air Circuit Breakers (ACB):

Air circuit breakers use compressed air as the arc extinguishing medium. When a fault occurs, the
contacts inside the breaker open, creating an arc. The arc is then cooled and extinguished by the blast
of compressed air, which is released through arc chutes or chambers. ACBs are suitable for medium-
voltage applications and offer reliable performance and simple maintenance.

2. Vacuum Circuit Breakers (VCB):

Vacuum circuit breakers utilize a vacuum as the arc extinguishing medium. When the contacts of
the breaker open, the arc is drawn into a sealed vacuum chamber, where it is rapidly extinguished
due to the absence of ionized particles. VCBs are highly efficient, compact, and maintenance-free,
making them ideal for medium-voltage applications in substations.

3. SF6 Circuit Breakers:

SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) circuit breakers use SF6 gas as the arc extinguishing medium. When a fault
occurs, the contacts open, and the arc is extinguished in a high-pressure SF6 gas environment. SF6
circuit breakers are known for their excellent arc quenching properties, high insulation strength, and
compact design, making them suitable for medium to high-voltage applications in substations.

4. Oil Circuit Breakers (OCB):

Oil circuit breakers use mineral oil as the arc extinguishing medium. When the contacts open, the
arc is immersed in the oil, which rapidly absorbs the heat and extinguishes the arc. OCBs are suitable
for high-voltage applications in substations but are less common due to environmental concerns and
the need for regular maintenance.

Working Principle of Circuit Breakers in Electrical Substations:

Regardless of the type, circuit breakers in electrical substations operate based on the same
fundamental principle of interrupting the flow of electrical current when abnormal conditions are
detected. When a fault occurs, such as a short circuit or overload, the protective relay system detects
the fault and sends a signal to the circuit breaker to trip.

Upon receiving the trip signal, the circuit breaker quickly opens its contacts, disconnecting the faulty
section of the circuit from the power source. This interruption prevents further damage to equipment
and minimizes downtime in the substation. After the fault is cleared, the circuit breaker can be
manually or automatically reset to restore power to the affected area.

In summary, circuit breakers are essential components in electrical substations, providing critical
protection against electrical faults and ensuring the reliable operation of transmission and distribution
systems. With various types available, substations can select the most suitable circuit breaker based
on voltage level, application requirements, and operational considerations, ensuring optimal
performance and safety in the substation environment.

Insulator
Insulators are crucial components in electrical substations, where they are employed to support and
isolate conductors, equipment, and structures from the ground and other conductive elements. In a
33/11 kV electrical substation, insulators play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the electrical
system, preventing electrical leakage, and ensuring the safe and reliable operation of substation
equipment.

Types of insulator:-
1. Post Insulators:
Post insulators are commonly used in substations and overhead transmission lines. They consist of a
single insulating unit with a threaded metal stud or bolt at one end for mounting onto a support
structure, such as a steel or concrete post. Post insulators are suitable for applications where space is
limited or where the insulator needs to be mounted vertically.

2. Suspension Insulators:
Suspension insulators are used in overhead transmission lines to support conductors and provide
electrical insulation between the conductor and the supporting tower or crossarm. They consist of a
series of insulating discs or units connected in series by metal or fiberglass rods. Suspension insulators
are typically mounted horizontally between the conductor and the tower, allowing for flexibility and
movement to accommodate line sag and environmental conditions.

3. Strain Insulators:
Strain insulators, also known as tension insulators, are used to support and insulate overhead
conductors in locations where the line changes direction or experiences tension. They are installed at
the ends of long spans or at points where the line changes direction, such as at dead-end structures or
corners. Strain insulators are designed to withstand mechanical stresses and provide electrical
insulation under tension.

4. Pin Insulators:
Pin insulators are used to support conductors on crossarms or other support structures in overhead
distribution lines. They consist of a single insulating unit with a groove or hole through which the
conductor is threaded, and a metal pin or spindle at one end for mounting onto the support structure.
Pin insulators are commonly used in medium-voltage distribution systems and provide effective
electrical insulation in a compact design.

5. Shackle Insulators:
Shackle insulators, also known as spool or guy strain insulators, are used to support and insulate
overhead conductors in locations where guy wires or stay wires are used for additional support. They
consist of a single insulating unit with a metal or fiberglass eyelet or shackle at each end for
attachment to the conductor and the support structure. Shackle insulators provide mechanical
support and electrical insulation in applications where guy wires are used to stabilize the conductor.

These are some common types of insulators used in electrical substations and overhead transmission
and distribution lines, each designed for specific mounting configurations and applications to ensure
effective electrical insulation and support.

Applications of Insulators in Electrical Substations:

Supporting Overhead Conductors: Insulators are used to support overhead conductors, such as power
lines and busbars, and prevent them from coming into contact with grounded structures or the earth.
By providing electrical insulation, insulators help maintain the required clearance distances and
prevent electrical leakage or short circuits.
Isolating Switchgear and Equipment: Insulators are also used to provide electrical insulation and
isolation for switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, and other substation equipment. By isolating
these components from the ground and other conductive elements, insulators ensure safe operation
and prevent electrical faults or failures.