IPI intelligent transformer substations by Ingenieurbüro Pfeffer

The intelligent expansion of the power supply network, integration of renewable energy sources and electromobility, all present the power supply companies with new challenges. This applies in particular to the field of transformer substations.

The construction of new and expensive power lines can be optimised using intelligent transformer substations. In doing so, the IPI ION acts as an outpost of the control room. The implementation of intelligent solutions like adjustable transformer substations, longitudinal voltage regulators, control systems and telecontrols as well as monitoring units serves the timely detection of grid overloads, the reduction or prevention of power failures and enables quick and preventative troubleshooting. Constant availability is essential here.

As, however, the secondary technology installed consists of sensitive electronic components and there is an increased risk of injecting lightning current and surges from nearby and distant lightning strikes in the increasingly networked smart grid, the risk of damage is growing.

The consequence is expensive repair and maintenance work involving considerable manpower and reducing availability.

Pfeffer relies on a tested lightning and surge protection concept from DEHN to ensure security of supply as well as system and operational safety and to fulfil normative requirements, e.g. pursuant to DIN VDE 0100-443.

To protect the power side, a DEHNvenCI is installed directly at the feeding point of the low-voltage side in accordance with DIN VDE 0100-534. This is a combined arrester Type 1+2+3 based on spark-gap technology. Thanks to the integrated arrester backup fuse, it can be installed in a space-saving and practical manner regardless of the nominal current of the system.

In addition, copper-based information and communication lines are protected with the BLITZDUCTOR-XT or DEHNpatch. The same applies to coaxial cables leading to external transmission technology. Here, DEHNgate provides reliable protection against the field effects of lightning. Depending on the system configuration, sensitive control devices are also protected with Type 3 surge arresters such as DEHNrail.

There is also the option of integrating the surge protection devices into the control room so that a preventive maintenance concept can be realised.