Transformer electrical substations: what are the main types, scope

A transformer power plant is a special type of power plant designed for receiving, transforming and differentiated distribution of electricity for those in need of it objects. There are various types of transformer substations, differing in their design, installation and operation features.

Device and principle of operation

Since the middle of the 20th century, world scientists have invented, improved and tested energy structures that allow supplying an electric current of the required power to industrial facilities or settlements. This is how the transformer substation appeared. Electricity is transmitted over long distances and loses its voltage on the way from the power plant to its destination. In order for these losses to be minimal, substations are used.

They are usually found outdoors, behind a wire fence. In densely populated areas, the substation can also be located indoors. The most important element in the installation is a three-phase transformer or several single-phase ones.

There is also equipment for its protection and cooling. To cool the transformers, special oils are used, which are loaded into a cooling mechanism connected to the ground and a step-down resistor.

The space in the room where the transformers, busbars and instrumentation are located is called the chamber. It can be closed, when it is a room, or fenced, if it is located behind a net or lattice. The substation is serviced by professional electricians who have access to work on high-voltage lines. The work of the devices is supervised by a power engineer on duty, who must constantly be at the main switchboard.

Electricity comes from the power plant, then it is fed to the transmitting current source, where the voltage is increased thanks to the power transformer. It rises to reduce losses in the transmission of electricity over long distances.

The electricity then goes to the substation, where the voltage is reduced to the required level, passing through step-down transformers, and enters the distribution center. Here, the voltage is further reduced for distribution through the local network, from where electricity with a voltage of 220 volts is supplied to the transformers of residential areas.

The main types of structures

In total, there are 19 types of transformer substations, depending on the function of the transformers available there. Here are the most used ones:

1. Modular block, with a capacity of up to 4000 kilowatts. They are used in utility rooms.
2. Distribution transformer suitable for businesses and large supermarkets.
3. Mast (pole). They transmit electrical energy for settlements and industrial complexes.
4. Complete transformer substations. They take a three-phase current of 10 kilowatts and give a voltage of 380/220.
5. Complex transformer - bushing and dead-end.
6. Transformer single-phase complete substations.

On the basis of the removal of the consumer from the source of electricity and the amount of power consumption, the substation belongs to one of the following types:

1. Nodal distribution (URP) - receives energy from 110 to 220 volts, where it is to be distributed to deep input substations with voltages from 35 to 220 volts.
2. The main step-down one is designed to receive a voltage from 35 to 220 volts, power goes directly from the district electrical system and is distributed throughout the enterprise, but the voltage decreases.
3. Deep input substation - accepts voltages from 35 to 220, is supplied with power directly from the system or from a distribution point at the enterprise.
4. Transformer station - primary voltage from 6 to 35, supplies 230 and 400 directly to consumers.

By location, transformer stations are divided into open and closed. Open ones are located in an open area, closed ones are located in production workshops and closed rooms. In addition to the main transformer substations supplying power to large consumers, the energy system also uses small, traction substations that supply power to trams and trolleybuses.

Mast transformer

Mast stations are being built to supply power to remote settlements, cottage settlements, horticultural cooperatives. Their second name is pillar ones, since they are placed on supports. The principle of their work is simple. From the central distribution center, electric current comes to the substation, where it is converted and distributed to consumers. With regular cooling, the system automatically controls the rise and fall of the desired voltage.

There are two versions of these designs. More simple complete transformer substation, outwardly similar to the letter "A", which consists of discharge elements, fuses and a power transformer unit with a distribution module. The second approach, U-shaped, is more difficult during construction, but more justifies itself during operation.

This configuration includes the same components, but with minor differences. For example, a power distribution module is represented here as a low voltage device. The pole power supply can work with oil and dry transformers.

The structure is equipped with automatic on and off. Modern models provide protection against short circuits, as well as all kinds of interlocks for safety purposes. Pole substations have many advantages and are therefore widespread. There is no need to prepare the site for them, and this already greatly reduces the cost of installation. In addition, their installation is completely safe for the environment and humans. In the event of a sharp drop in temperature, the unit is equipped with heaters.

Kiosk substations

One of the types of substations - a complete electrical substation of a kiosk type - is a complex electrical structure in which the conversion and distribution of electrical energy takes place consumers. It is built in places with a temperate climate at a temperature not lower than -40 degrees.

The structure includes a power transformer, switchgear, protective and auxiliary elements (switches, relay protection, measuring instruments). The station carries out:

• reception of three-phase current;
• transmission of electrical energy;
• energy conversion;
• its distribution.

Also, the circuit is equipped with cable or air lines for voltage output, the undervoltage side contains ground. Kiosk systems are constructed from a prefabricated body and are divided into two parts. One houses equipment, the other houses low-voltage devices. The structure is hermetically sealed and reliably protects the electrical part from snow and rain.

The installation of kiosk control panels must be carried out in accordance with the rules for electrical installations and fire safety:

• free entrance;
• access to the implementation of repairs;
• standardized distance to residential buildings
• sound insulation level;
• ventilation holes and free air exchange.

Kiosk KTP must be used in a normal environment, therefore, the device must not contain explosive substances and aggressive vapors. They must not be subject to shock and must not be placed on a surface subject to vibration.