Sub-Station Project

Al Khazna Grid Busbar Protection System

Replacement of existing busbar protection scheme with numerical busbar protection system in Al Ain distribution network.

Project Overview

ACECO was awarded contract A-17662 for the replacement of the existing busbar protection scheme with a state-of-the-art numerical busbar protection system in Al Khazna Grid in the Al Ain distribution network. This critical infrastructure upgrade was essential to enhance the reliability and performance of the power distribution system in the region.

The project involved comprehensive engineering, procurement, installation, and commissioning services to replace outdated protection systems with modern numerical relays that offer advanced protection features, better reliability, and improved integration with the existing SCADA/DMS systems.

This project demonstrates ACECO's expertise in handling complex electrical protection system upgrades while ensuring minimal disruption to the operational grid. The implementation of cutting-edge protection technology has significantly enhanced the grid's reliability and fault response capabilities.

Scope of Work

Design & Engineering

Comprehensive design and engineering of the numerical busbar protection system, including protection coordination studies, relay settings calculations, and integration planning with existing systems.

Manufacturing & Factory Testing

Procurement and manufacturing of numerical busbar protection relays and associated equipment, followed by comprehensive factory acceptance testing to ensure compliance with AADC standard specifications.

Dismantling & Installation

Careful dismantling of existing busbar protection panels, relays, and associated components, followed by installation of new numerical protection systems with minimal disruption to grid operations.

Configuration & Parameter Setting

Detailed configuration and parameter setting of all protection relays according to the protection coordination studies and AADC requirements, ensuring optimal protection performance.

Testing & Commissioning

Comprehensive site testing and commissioning of the new protection system, including primary and secondary injection tests, functional tests, and end-to-end system verification.

SCADA/DMS Integration

Integration of the new protection system with the existing SCADA/DMS infrastructure, enabling remote monitoring, control, and data acquisition capabilities.

ASPEN Software Supply

Supply of ASPEN software for protection coordination studies and relay setting calculations, enabling ongoing maintenance and optimization of the protection system.

Technical Specifications

Protection Equipment

•Numerical Busbar Protection Relays
•Backup Protection Relays
•Feeder Protection Relays
•Auxiliary Relays
•Control & Indication Panels

Software & Integration

•ASPEN Protection Coordination Software
•SCADA/DMS Integration Modules
•Relay Configuration Software
•Disturbance Recording Analysis Tools
•Protection Setting Management System

Protection Features

•High-Speed Fault Detection
•Differential Protection
•CT Supervision

•Disturbance Recording
•Self-Monitoring Capabilities
•Remote Access & Control

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge: Minimal Outage Window

The Al Khazna Grid is a critical part of the Al Ain distribution network, requiring minimal disruption during the protection system replacement.

Solution:

We implemented a phased replacement strategy with detailed switchover plans for each section of the grid. Temporary protection arrangements were established during the transition, and critical work was scheduled during periods of lowest demand. Pre-fabrication and pre-testing of panels before installation minimized on-site work time.

Challenge: Integration with Existing Systems

The new numerical protection system needed to integrate seamlessly with the existing SCADA/DMS infrastructure and other protection systems.

Solution:

We conducted comprehensive interface studies and developed detailed integration plans. Custom interface modules were designed where necessary, and extensive testing was performed to ensure proper communication between new and existing systems. The SCADA/DMS integration was implemented in stages with fallback options at each step.

Challenge: Knowledge Transfer

The transition from conventional to numerical protection systems required significant knowledge transfer to the client's operations and maintenance staff.

Solution:

We developed a comprehensive training program covering both theoretical aspects and hands-on operation of the new protection system. Training sessions were conducted for different levels of personnel, from operators to engineers. Detailed documentation and troubleshooting guides were provided, and a post-implementation support period was included to assist during the transition.

Results & Impact

Enhanced Protection

Significantly improved fault detection and isolation capabilities, reducing the risk of widespread outages.

Improved Reliability

Enhanced system reliability with self-monitoring capabilities and redundant protection features.

Modern Infrastructure

Modernized protection infrastructure with extended service life and reduced maintenance requirements.

The Al Khazna Grid Busbar Protection System upgrade has significantly enhanced the reliability and performance of the Al Ain distribution network. The modern numerical protection system provides faster fault detection and isolation, reducing the impact of faults on the overall grid.

The integration with the SCADA/DMS system has improved visibility and control of the protection system, enabling remote monitoring and management. This has reduced the need for site visits and improved response times to potential issues.

The successful implementation of this project has established ACECO as a trusted partner for complex protection system upgrades in the UAE's power distribution network. The knowledge and experience gained from this project will be valuable for similar future projects.