4/17/2018

An Introduction to Digital Switchgear

Dr. Harsh Karandikar Ron Pate Edgar Flores

Senior Member, IEEE Member, IEEE Member, IEEE
harsh.m.karandikar@us.abb.com ron.pate@us.abb.com edgar.p.flores@us.abb.com

Slide 2

Agenda

1:00 ‐ 1:15 pm Opening Remarks

1:15 ‐ 1:45 pm Part 1 – Digital switchgear definition & overview of key concepts

1:45 ‐ 3:00 pm Part 2 – Electronic instrument transformers (sensors)

3:00 ‐ 3:15 pm Break

3:15 ‐ 4:30 pm Part 3 – Protection & control in digital switchgear
4:30 ‐ 5:00 pm Part 4 – Applications considerations & value proposition

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Part 1: Definition & Concepts

Slide 4

Topics

− Why digital switchgear?
− What is digital switchgear?
− Digital switchgear in context
− Key digital switchgear components:
• Current and voltage sensors
• Protection & control relays

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Slide 5

ANSI switchgear 
What do customers want?

 Distribution
networks have Be flexible!
evolved and Be “smart”!
Be simple!
become more
complex. Be reliable! Be on time!
 Switchgear, as
part of the grid, Be environmentally friendly!
has a more Be future proof!
important role
than before.
Be efficient! Be safe!
Be easy!

Slide 6

Digital Switchgear Defined
Applicable to any voltage class

An enclosure for circuit switching, interruption and control 
devices where all measurement, device status information and 
commands are reliably transferred on a common real‐time 
Ethernet communication bus using the IEC 61850 protocol.

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Slide 7

ANSI medium voltage digital switchgear
Next phase in the evolution of switchgear

Current
Digital Switchgear is not only a new product, it is also a new 
61850
Voltage
Temperature
Humidity
concept in protection, control, and automation.  Partial discharge
Contact wear
Other …

SAFETY & SIMPLICITY are the most significant 
benefits, but there are many more. 

Both, sensors & common communication bus, are essential 
to realize the full benefits of digital switchgear.

Slide 8

Digital switchgear in Context
Digital substation

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Slide 9

Digital Switchgear in Context
The IoT Architecture

Applications

Wi-Fi or Applications

Note: The Cloud is simply digital switchgear

an infrastructure of shared
resources such as servers,
Wired enables smart
networks, and software electrical networks
applications and services. that deliver power
reliably & efficiently
Sensors, Actuators, Controllers

Connecting to IoTSP

Equipment experts take care of the equipment using remote 
connectivity, predicting critical issues before failure occurs or 
before they develop into major defects.
A remote connectivity solution gets information from the 
monitoring and diagnostic devices on switchgear.
The remote infrastructure lets field service technicians monitor 
and connect to any switchgear without any change or interaction 
with the existing protection and control network.

April 17, 2018Slide 10

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Slide 11

ANSI switchgear 
Levels of digitalization
Digital switchgear Description Main switchgear value
1. Reduced weight
2. Space saving (primarily due to elimination of 
Simply replace CTs & PTs with Current & Voltage 
PT compartment)
Sensors.
3. Eliminates problems of saturation and 
Level 0 Ferroresonance
Add additional sensor packages (e.g., temperature) as 
4. Safety – no possibility of unsafe voltages from 
needed. 
open CT secondary circuits

Above +
Above + IEC61850‐8‐1 & GOOSE messaging 5. Significant reduction in wiring between 
Level 1 Ethernet cabling between Protective Relays. frames
6. Late customization

Above + Process bus (61850‐9‐2LE)
Requires use of Merging Units (MUs), time  Above +
Level 2 synchronization devices & Ethernet switches. 7. Improved flexibility – changes in protection 
Fiber optic connection from bay (switchgear) to  only require IED level changes.
substation.

Slide 12

Is Digital Switchgear constructed differently?
Form factor permits switchgear space savings

Voltage sensors
More flexibility in placement of
voltage sensors as compared
to PTs.

Current sensors Major space savings possible if

we use them as bus supports.

Located in bus/cable
compartment to remove the
necessity for a dedicated
drawer.

Are put in the same

location as CTs.

IEEE C37.20.2-2015 address the use of sensors in ANSI metal-clad switchgear (Annex D).
UL347 6th Edition does the same for Motor Control Centers in Annex E.

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Slide 13

Sensors – ideal for critical applications
Concerns better addressed by sensors

• 20+ yr old technology in switchgear
• Use solid state components and little or no ferromagnetic material in circuit
• Lack of magnetic core  very low energy output – cannot typically transfer power to secondary
• Numerous form factors for indoor and outdoor application (voltage only, current only, combination)
• Wide variety of outputs – from ~100 mV / mA to 120 V / 1 Amp

• Increased safety
• Reduced footprint
• More linear response
• Simplified installations – less wiring, smaller footprint, lighter weight
• Reduced energy use, esp. in tight compartments

Slide 14

Non‐conventional instrument transformers
Current sensors Voltage sensors
Rogowski coil sensor Resistive voltage divider sensors
UP
– Output voltage is proportional to the derivative of primary current − Passive element
– Output voltage is integrated by protective relay − No fuses required
R1
R2
US  UP
R1  R2

No saturation
R2
Open CT hazard
u s (t )  M
di p ( t ) No ferroresonance US
(air core) eliminated dt (non-inductive)

Low Power CT Capacitive Voltage Divider (CVD) sensors

– Output is voltage rather than current
MV sensors Standards 

• IEC 60044‐8 (2002)
FOCS (Fiber Optic Current Sensor) • IEC 61869‐10 (NEW)
Current sensors
– Mainly used in high voltage applications due to higher cost Electronic current transformers
• IEC 60044‐7 (1999)
Voltage sensors • IEC 61869‐11 (NEW)
Electronic voltage transformers
IEEE PSIM Working Group 
formed recently to work on 
an IEEE Guide that will be 
focus on testing of end‐to‐
end sensor systems.

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Slide 15

Current and voltage sensor connections to IED
Point‐to‐point wiring eliminated with RJ‐45 cables 

SENSORS TEST SWITCH PROTECTION RELAY

Shielded cable with RJ45 L1

L1 Adapter

Protective relays must have LEA

(Low Energy Analog) inputs
Test Switch with LEA compatible with the Rogowski
inputs & outputs. coil and RVD sensors.

Almost no analog wiring in the switchgear → increases reliability

Slide 16

Relays for digital switchgear
Future proof solution based on IEC 61850

Minimum requirements
– Supports IEC 61850  61850
• Vertical communication 
• Horizontal GOOSE communication 
• Process bus
– IEC 61850‐2‐LE (Sampled Values) 
– LEA (Low Energy Analog) inputs

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Slide 17

IEC 61850‐9‐2LE process bus & GOOSE messaging
One line diagram
Common Ethernet
Station bus (IEC 61850-8-1), process bus (IEC 61850-9-2 LE) and IEEE 1588 v2 time synchronization

GOOSE

GOOSE

GOOSE
GOOSE
GOOSE

GOOSE

GOOSE

SMV

SMV
SMV

SMV

SMV

SMV
Digital data

SMV

IED
Analog measurements

Voltage sensor

Current sensor

Slide 18

61850‐9‐2LE Process Bus & GOOSE messaging in Digital Switchgear
Replacing copper with Ethernet

Before After
Digital substation reduces wiring No cable tray
complexity and resulting risks
for operations & maintenance
personnel
Single conduit to carry
fibers

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Slide 19

Digital Switchgear – the next evolutionary step
1890‐1920 1921‐1940 1940‐1970 1970‐present

Early years of power Moving into enclosures Going from oil to  Modern 

air standards and 
switchgear 
construction

• AC current won out over DC at the Chicago World’s fair • Circuit breaker technology was starting to advance
• Niagara Power House No. 1 built to supply power to  • Interruption medium was still largely open air
Buffalo • 1921: Merlin Gerin produced the first oil circuit breaker
• Need for a circuit interrupting device discovered • 1924: 1919 Performance Standard was revised 
• Indoor circuit breakers mounted on marble boards with  • Prohibit flame during interruption
uninsulated bus 
• Require the condition after an interruption to be 
• Short‐circuit interruption occurred in open air or oil “…substantially the same as before”
• Electro‐mechanical protective relays introduced • Metal‐enclosed concept was carried over to MV levels
• First circuit breaker performance standard issued in 1919 • 1938: 2500‐5000 V metal‐enclosed switchgear with 
interrupting capacity up to 150,000 kVA
• Units featured an enclosed, insulated bus

Slide 20

Digital Switchgear – the next evolutionary step
1890‐1920 1921‐1940 1940‐1970 1970‐present
Early years  Moving into  Going from oil to air Modern standards and switchgear construction
of power enclosures

• 1927: A patent for the first arc‐chute design filed
• 1940: Most oil tank breakers phased out for the preferred  • C37.04, C37.06 & C37.09
minimum oil breaker design
• Produced up to the mid 1970’s
• 1940: First air‐blast circuit breaker offered commercially
• 1945: C37.6 introduced preferred ratings for indoor, oil  • C37.20.2: Metal‐Clad Switchgear
circuit breakers up to 34.5kV
• Switchgear construction was still basically the same 
(metal‐enclosed) until approximately 1960, when true 
metal‐clad construction became popular
• Protective Relays
• 1943: Flexitest™ relay cases became available
• 1960s: Continual improvement of electro‐mechanical 
relays
• 1965: First solid state relay introduced
• Breaker standards became fully developed
• Switchgear standards adapted to changing technology and addressed 
construction differences
• C37.20.1: Metal‐Enclosed Low‐Voltage Switchgear
• C37.20.3: Metal‐Enclosed Interrupter Switchgear (1‐38 kV)
• Emergence & increased adoption of vacuum technology
• Development began as early as the 1920s
Next?
• Commercial products appeared in the late 1960s
• Dominant by the early 1980s at medium voltage
• Provided advantages in size, interruption capability and 
maintenance over oil
• SF6 & GIS Technology enter the market in late 1970s.
• Protective Relays
• 1980s: Microprocessor relays developed
• 1990s: Microprocessor relays replace solid state devices 

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Slide 21

ANSI digital switchgear
Designed to meet the needs of the future (and today)
Minimal variation →
Low inventory needed
Be “smart”! Be flexible!
Be simple!
Be on time!
Be reliable! Measurement devices with high
Possibility of late accuracy over an extended range.
Simplified wiring customization Can deal with varying load flows

Be environmentally friendly! Be future proof!

Significant energy savings
Be safe!
Be efficient!
Be easy! Safety by design
Space & weight saving

Slide 22

Part 2: Electronic Instrument Transformers 
(Current & Voltage Sensors)

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Slide 23

Topics

− Sensor standards
− Introduction to current & voltage sensor technologies
− Sensors vs. Instrument Transformers
− Sensor performance
− Sensors in Digital Switchgear
• Benefits
• Challenges

Slide 24

Sensors & Digital Switchgear

Definition: An enclosure for circuit switching, interruption and control

devices where all measurement, device status information and commands
are reliably transferred on a common real-time Ethernet communication bus
using the IEC 61850 protocol.

• You can have digital switchgear without sensors. 
• However, sensors are necessary to maximize the benefits 
from digital switchgear. 

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Slide 25

Standards for Current & Voltage Sensors – ANSI Markets
• ITs are primarily covered by IEEE C57.13‐2016; this standard does not cover sensors

• IEEE standards / guides for current & voltage sensors
– IEEE PSIM Working Group formed recently to work on an IEEE Guide that will be focus on 
testing of end‐to‐end sensor systems
– IEEE C37.235‐2007 ‐ Guide for the Application of Rogowski Coils used for Protective Relaying 
Purposes
– IEEE C37.92‐2005 ‐ Standard for Analog Inputs to Protective Relays From Electronic Voltage 
and Current Transducers
– Recent switchgear standards (IEEE C37.20.2‐2015) explicitly address the use of current & 
voltage sensors
Current sensors • IEC 60044‐8 (2002)
• IEC 61869‐10 (NEW)
• However, this should not limit your applications 
• IEC 60044‐7 (1999)
– IEC standards cover sensors Voltage sensors
• IEC 61869‐11 (NEW)

Slide 26

Traditional ITs

• More than 100 year old technology 
• Uses ferromagnetic circuit to tightly couple primary and secondary, with special 
attention to maximizing accuracy of translation of voltage and current signals
• Also able to transfer power from primary to secondary
• Typically 1 or 5 amp current output, 120 or 240 volt voltage output
• Wide array of meters and relays supporting (electromechanical & solid state)

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Slide 27

Sensors
Measurement and Protection

• More than 20 year old technology
• Use solid state components and little or no ferromagnetic material in circuit
• Lack of large magnetic core  very low energy output – cannot typically transfer power to secondary
• Numerous form factors for indoor & outdoor applications (voltage only, current only, combination)
• Wide variety of outputs – from ~100 mV / mA to 120 V / 1 Amp

Slide 28

Current sensor based on Rogowski coil principle
 Typical Rogowski coil sensor
Us=180 mV for 60 Hz
 Frequency dependent
 Output voltage is proportional to the
derivative of primary current
 Output voltage is integrated by IED
 Uniformly wound coil with non-
magnetic core
 Typical accuracy up to class 0.5
 Applicable standards IEC 60044,
IEC 61869

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Slide 29

Voltage sensors – resistive and capacitive dividers
• Resistive voltage dividers used typically
in MV sensors for voltage measurement
UP UP
• Capacitive dividers used on both C1
measurement and for voltage indication R1
• Light based sensors evolving but typically
more expensive than resistive dividers R2 C2
US US
• Example ratios include 1440:1, 10,000:1
• Typical accuracy up to class 0.5 US 
R2
UP C1
R1  R 2 Us  U
• Passive elements C1  C 2
P

• Applicable standards IEC 60044, IEC

61869

Slide 30

Rogowski coil current sensor
ε[%] Typical protection accuracy limit
class 5P
+5%

+1.5%
Typical metering accuracy
+0.75% limit class 0.5
+0.5%
4 A 16 A 80 A 2500 A 50 kA
≈

20% 100% Ipr Icth Ip

-0.5%
-0.75%
-1.5%

-5%

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Slide 31

Resistive voltage sensor
Combined voltage accuracy class 0.5/3P
ε[%]
+6%
Protection accuracy limit class 3P
+3%

Metering accuracy limit class 0.5

+0.5%
≈

≈
-0.5% 0.02*Upn 0.8*Upn Upn 1.2*Upn 1.9*Upn Up

-3%

-6%

Slide 32

Examples of Indoor Voltage Sensors

Examples of Voltage Sensors for Indoor Air and Gas Insulated Environments. 
Lots of different form factors possible depending on application.

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Slide 33

Sensor Ratings
Examples of rating labels
Current Sensor  Voltage Sensor 

Ipr Rated primary current

Usr Rated secondary output Upn Rated primary voltage
cl Accuracy class Kn Divider ratio
Kpcr Rated extended primary current factor cl Accuracy class
Cfs Correction factors used for current sensor ku Rated voltage factor
al amplitude correction factor Cfs Correction factors used for voltage sensor. Correction factors are
measured and calculated separately for each sensor.
pl phase error correction factor
aU Amplitude correction factor
fr Rated frequency
pU Phase error correction factor in degrees
Ith Rated short-time thermal current
fr Rated frequency in Hz
Idyn Rated dynamic current
E Insulation class
E Insulation class

Slide 34

Accuracy Comparison – Rogowski Coil vs. Traditional CT

Current sensor accuracy for 
pure Rogowski coil – may 
vary slightly if using hybrid 
Rogowski coil (some iron 
material in magnetic circuit).

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Slide 35

Sensor vs. Traditional IT Comparison

Slide 36

Benefits of Sensors vs. Traditional ITs
Safety – One of the most important benefits

 Low voltage, low energy output signals
 No need to use PT fuses
 Secondary can be left open or short‐circuited
 Increased safety for personnel during testing/ operation

TRADITIONAL ITs

WARNING!!! The secondary circuit of CTs should never be opened or left open when current is
flowing in the primary. If the secondary circuit is open, the primary current will drive the core to
saturation, inducing abnormally high and possibly lethal PEAK voltages.

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Slide 37

Key Benefits of Sensors vs. Traditional ITs

• Increased safety
• Reduced chances of failure
• Reduced footprint
• More linear response
• Simplified installations – less wiring, smaller footprint, lighter weight
• Reduced energy use, especially in tight compartments

Sensor technology today and in the years to come

offers exciting advantages in critical applications

Slide 38

Benefits of Sensors vs. Traditional ITs (contd.)
• Flexibility toward varying load flow – linear response, extensive dynamic range (no core saturation)
• Typically no risk of ferro‐resonance (voltage sensor vs. PT)
• Upgrade of switchgear parameters without additional costs
• Indoor sensors can often be retrofitted in existing structures with new relays
• Reduced footprint:  lighter weight, smaller form factors – e.g., PT drawout trays in switchgear may be avoided
• More linear response, esp. when harmonics present
• Less energy consumption by the device itself 
• Standardization ‐ one sensor covers full voltage or current range of traditional IT family
• Improved inventory management
• Change‐out flexibility
• Simpler documentation
• Environmental friendliness (less raw material needed)

Especially attractive in critical applications where ferroresonance, harmonic response, and safety are essential.

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Slide 39

Sensor Challenges
• Cabling – sensors impedance matched
• May be sensitive to magnetic fields – current cross talk, line sag may affect accuracy
• Lack of power transfer to secondary to power devices
• Lack of voltage reference for overhead line mounted sensors, unless additional connection is provided
• Percentage error still not comparable to traditional ITs (though linearity is better)
• Lack of standardization
• Standards limited in N. America
• No standard for “burden” – using impedance values (e.g., 1 MΩ) vs VA ratings as with traditional ITs
• Varied output and current voltage levels
• Limited selection today of meters and relays compatible with sensors
• General understanding of sensors is less as opposed to ITs

Slide 40

Traditional ITs – Still Have a Place

• When seeking compatibility with existing meters or relays not 
compatible with sensor outputs
• When power is needed as well as accurate signal translation 
(control power application)
• When change of equipment to match differing dimensions is 
not desirable

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Slide 41

Considerations for Sensor Selection
• Type of application – protection vs metering
• Availability of power for meter or relay
• Compatible relays / meters – voltage, current compatibility, integration in 
controller for Rogowski coil sensors
• Cabling – sensors typically use shielded cables and are specifically 
manufactured to be “tuned” to the cable impedance 
• No simple cut / splice
• Form factor of sensor – post, fully insulated or 600V for insulated busbar, etc.
• Space availability for sensor mounting
• Temperature rating of sensor compared to application environment

Slide 42

Secondary Device Compatibility
Sensors Require Proper Selection of Compatible Relays or Meters

615

620

Relion®

Examples of sensor compatible relays and meters (may not support pure Rogowski coil sensor inputs).
Others available as well including models from ABB, Beckwith, Cooper, GE, Satec, SEL and S&C.

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Slide 43

Current and Voltage Sensors
Form factor permits 
switchgear space savings Voltage sensors

More flexibility in placement of

Current sensors voltage sensors as compared to
PTs. Major space savings possible
if we use them as bus supports.

Are put in the same

location as CTs.

Slide 44

Examples of Current Sensors for Air Insulated Switchgear

 Example ring type sensor for AIS applications

 Suitable for new installations as well
 Rated primary current of application based on
size constraints, typically up to 4000A
 Typical current accuracy class 0.5 and 5P

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Slide 45

Examples of Voltage Sensors for Air Insulated Switchgear

 Resistive and capacitive based voltage

sensing
 Suitable for new and retrofit installations
 Typically voltages up to 36 kV
 Typical accuracy class up to 0.5
measurement, 3P protection
 May double as insulator in compartment

Slide 46

Example of Combined Sensors for Air Insulated Switchgear
Voltage
sensors

 Current and voltage measurments together

with voltage indication in one compact frame

Current  Typical primary current of application up to

sensors
3000 - 4000 A
 Typical current accuracy class up to 0.5/5P
 Typical voltage accuracy class up to 0.5/3P

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Slide 47

Typical Current Sensor for Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS)

 Ring type sensor for GIS applications

 Suitable for retrofit purposes as well as
new installations
 Typical rated primary current of application
up to 4000 A depending on sensor used
 Typical current accuracy class 0.5/5P

Slide 48

Examples of Voltage Sensors for Gas Insulated Switchgear

 Plug type sensors for GIS applications

 Different versions for different types of
cable T-connectors
 Typical voltage accuracy class 0.5/3P

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Slide 49

Typical Combo Sensors in Gas Insulated Switchgear

ABB Nexans
Kabeldon Euromold

NKT Raychem

Slide 50

Typical Combo Sensor in MV Circuit Breakers

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Slide 51

Example of Current & Voltage Sensor Connections to IED 
in Switchgear
SENSORS TEST SWITCH PROTECTION RELAY

Shielded cable with RJ45 L1

L1 Adapter

Test Switch with LEA

inputs & outputs.
Protective relays must have LEA (Low
Energy Analog) inputs compatible with
the Rogowski coil and RVD sensors.

Point‐to‐point wiring eliminated with RJ‐45 Cables 
Almost no analog wiring in the switchgear – increases reliability

April 17, 2018

Slide 52

Benefits of Sensors in Digital Switchgear Applications
Safety Speed
• Low energy analog output eliminates   Concept allows for compression of time from 
hazard associated with open CT secondary order to delivery
• Fewer wires to install makes switchgear   Late customization possible
easier to maintain

Simplicity
Savings
 Fewer wires to install, commission & maintain
• Form factor of voltage sensors = 
switchgear space savings  Fewer parts to fail leads to increased reliability
• Size of current & voltage sensors = weight 
reduction Sustainability
• Broad application range of the sensors = 
inventory savings  Handle future load changes without mechanical 
reconfiguration of system
• Significant energy savings during operation
 Lower lifetime environmental impact
• Savings on total cost of ownership

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Slide 53

Sensor Evolution

• Technology around for decades, with adoption in Europe preceding 
adoption in N. America
• Most applications today are for protection, emerging applications 
for metering
TODAY • Linearity is typically excellent, even with harmonics present
• Error percentage (accuracy) of sensors still lags traditional ITs –
typical values 0.5% ‐ 3% error vs. 0.15% to 0.6%
• Typical LV and MV sensors today are low energy analog devices 
using solid state components
• Some sensors, including HV sensors, use optical technology ‐
require supplemental processing units (merging units)

Slide 54

Sensor Evolution

• Onboard A/D enabling accuracy improvements
• Increased integrated communications options
• Ability to power secondary devices
TOMORROW • Greater end to end application standardization including both 
protection and metering
• Wider array of form factors, LV, MV and HV
• Much wider array of compatible relays and meters
• Increased accuracies
• Increased standards and industry guidelines for sensor application

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Slide 55

ANSI digital switchgear
Designed to meet the needs of the future (and today)
Minimal variation →
Low inventory needed
Be “smart”! Be flexible!
Be simple!
Be on time!
Be reliable! Measurement devices with high
Possibility of late accuracy over an extended range.
Simplified wiring customization Can deal with varying load flows.

Be environmentally friendly! Be future proof!

Significant energy savings
Be safe!
Be efficient!
Be easy! Safety by design
Space & weight saving

Slide 56

Part 3: Protection and Control in 
Digital Switchgear

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Slide 57

Topics
− Implementation of protection within Digital Switchgear
• Merging Units
• Digital Substations
− Testing protective relays connected to sensors
− Preferred communication network for digital switchgear
− Zones of Protection
− Application examples of protection and control for the different zones of 
protection 
− Implementation of Automatic Transfer Schemes in Digital Switchgear
− Cost effective implementation of bus protection in Digital Switchgear
− Summary

Slide 58

Relays for Digital Switchgear
Future proof solution based on IEC 61850

Minimum requirements
– Supports IEC 61850 
• Vertical communication 
• Horizontal GOOSE communication 
• Process bus
– IEC 61850‐2‐LE (Sampled values) 
– LEA (Low Energy Analog) inputs
Preferred requirements
– Support IEC 61850  Ed2
– UL certification
61850

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Slide 59

Digital Switchgear
Why IEC 61850?

Characteristics
− IEC 61850 is an open protocol
− IEC 61850 provides interoperability between different vendors
− IEC 61850 defines all objects in your electrical one line

Components
− IEC 61850 MMS ‐ Vertical communications (Typical Master‐Slave component)
− IEC 61850 GOOSE messages ‐ Operation guaranteed in less than 10ms (Peer to Peer functionality)
− IEC 61850 Sampled Values ‐ Allow you to digitize current and voltage signals allowing you to pass information 
to other protective relays for utilization of the information (Peer to Peer functionality)

Slide 60

IEC61850 Based Substation Automation Systems
Basics:
• Fast Ethernet (100 MBps to 1 GBps)

• MMS

• Station Bus 61850 8‐1 

• Process Bus 61850 9‐2 

• Data Model 

• Substation Configuration Language

Much more than a protocol:
• Modularization and structuring of data
• On‐line meaningful information
Modbus RTU… • Free allocation of functions in IEDs
DNP…
• Complete description of configuration
TCP/IP…
• Structured engineering & services
IEC 62271…
• Testing, validation, and certification
“Combining the best properties in a new way...”

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IEC 61850‐9‐2LE Process Bus & GOOSE Messaging
One line diagram (relays can act as merging units)
Common Ethernet
Station bus (IEC 61850-8-1), process bus (IEC 61850-9-2 LE) and IEEE 1588 v2 time synchronization

GOOSE

GOOSE

GOOSE
GOOSE
GOOSE

GOOSE

GOOSE

SMV

SMV
SMV

SMV

SMV

SMV
Digital data

SMV

IED
Analog measurements

Voltage sensor

Current sensor

Slide 62

ANSI Medium Voltage Digital Switchgear
Replacing copper with Ethernet

Before After
Digital substation reduces wiring No cable tray
complexity and resulting risks
for operations & maintenance
personnel
Single conduit to carry
fibers

31
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Slide 63

IEC 61850‐9‐2LE Process Bus & GOOSE messaging
Footprint, copper wires, safety, reliability, and cost

Self healing bus

Continued self supervision

Slide 64

Digital Test Switch
Testing operation

SENSORS TEST SWITCH PROTECTION RELAY

L1
L1

Switch (one per 3 phases)

Test Plug

Test set

32
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Slide 65

Communication Networks
Reliability, Robustness, Resilience

– Redundant Ethernet solutions – HSR – PRP

• High availability seamless  • The nodes are connected via two  • Each network node is connected 
redundancy (HSR) ports to the network to two parallel local area 
• Parallel redundancy protocol  • HSR is used in a ring topology networks, LANA and LANB
(PRP) • Data is sent from both ports in  • The same data is sent to both 
• IEC 61850 supports both HSR  both directions in a ring local area networks
and PRP 

Slide 66

Communication Networks
HSR

– Optional second fiber‐optic or galvanic port 
(only fiber‐optic for RED615)
– Enables redundant Ethernet communication 
controlled by a managed switch with IEC 61850 
HSR protocol support
– Avoids single point of failure without any delay
– Secures highly critical communication between 
devices
• Communication downtime is eliminated.
• If the ring is broken, messages will still arrive 
over the intact path.
• A broken ring is easily detected since 
duplicate messages are no longer received

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Slide 67

Communication Networks
HSR

IEC 61850 Ethernet

redundancy HSR -
operation principle

Slide 68

Communication Networks
PRP

Gateway
– Optional second fiber‐optic or galvanic port 
(only fiber‐optic for RED615)
– Enables redundant Ethernet communication 
controlled by a managed switch with IEC 61850 
standard PRP support
– Avoids single point of failure without any delay
– Secures highly critical communication between 
devices
• Communication downtime is eliminated.
• The communication network is fully 
duplicated.
• If only one packet is received, the receiver 
knows the other path is broken.

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Slide 69

Zones of Protection
Introduction to Protective Relaying

The power system is divided into protection zones defined  Six categories of protection zones are possible in each power system: 
by the equipment and the available circuit breakers. 
1 Generators and generator–transformer units

2 Transformers 

3 Buses 

Lines (transmission, sub‐transmission, and 
4 distribution) 

Utilization equipment (motors, static loads, or 
5 other)
Capacitor or reactor banks (when separately 
6 protected).

Slide 70

Zones of Protection
Introduction to Protective Relaying

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Slide 71

Zones of  Station B
protection Station A

G
G
G

Station C

Station D
M

Slide 72

Zones of  Station B
protection Station A

G
G
G

Station C

Generator
Station D Protection
M

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Slide 73

Zones of  Station B
protection Station A

G
G
G

Station C

Transformer
Station D Protection
M

Slide 74

Zones of  Station B
protection Station A

G
G
G

Station C

Bus
Station D Protection
M

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Slide 75

Zones of  Station B
protection Station A

G
G
G

Station C

Line
Station D Protection
M

Slide 76

Zones of  Station B
protection Station A

G
G
G

Station C

Motor/Feeder
Station D Protection
M

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Slide 77

Application examples
Introduction to Protective Relaying

Example 1
Typical one line with transformer, bus, feeder, motor, line differential 
and generator protection.

Example 2
Typical one line with a double ended substation, with feeder, line 
differential, small motor and ATS.

Slide 78

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Typical One Line showing all Zones of Protection
Typical One Line showing all Zones of Protection

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Slide 79

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Cost Effective Bus Protection Scheme

Slide 80

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Feeders can be changed to current and voltage sensors

40
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Slide 81

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Small Motors can be changed to current sensors

Slide 82

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Voltage connection can be removed to the motor relay with current sensor inputs

41
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Slide 83

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Line Differential can be connected to current sensors

Slide 84

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Voltage connection can be removed to the line differential relay with current sensor inputs

42
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Slide 85

IEC 61850-9-2LE

Example 1
All zones of 
protection

Voltage information can be send via sample values (IEC 61850‐9‐2LE)

Slide 86

Example 2
ATS with line 
differential, 
feeder and 
small feeder 
protection

Traditional scheme using GOOSE and standard CTs and PTs

43
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Slide 87

IEC 61850-9-2LE
Example 2
ATS with line 
differential, 
feeder and 
small feeder 
protection

Scheme using current and voltage sensors

Slide 88

Automatic Transfer Schemes

− Main tie main normal configuration overview
− Traditional automatic bus transfer scheme
− Automatic bus transfer scheme using a relay with LEA inputs
• Relay basic I/O setup
• Communication requirements
• Normal operation condition
• Operation scenarios
• Maintenance transfer

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Slide 89

Main Tie Main
Normal Configuration
Source 1 Source 2

52 52
M1 M2

(N.C.) (N.C.)
52
TIE

(N.O.)

52 52 52 52
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

Slide 90

Traditional Automatic Transfer Scheme
Overview

Transfer scheme implemented using:
– Electromechanical or solid state relays
– Hardwire connections
– Auxiliary relays
– Auxiliary timers

45
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Slide 91

Traditional Automatic Transfer Scheme
Overview
Main(s)

Slide 92

Traditional Automatic Transfer Scheme
Overview
Tie

46
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Slide 93

Traditional ATS Example
Overview

– Bus configuration: Two main breakers and a normally open tie breaker
– Protection and Controls: Each breaker is equipped with a REF615 relay providing current and 
voltage protection, breaker controls, and automatic bus transfer scheme (ABTS)
– ABTS logic includes bus transfer, automatic closed transition retransfer, open transition retransfer 
and auto/manual maintenance transfer
– The tie relay is programmed to execute the ABTS and sync check functions
– “GOOSE” is applied for relay‐to‐relay communication

Slide 94

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Relay basic I/O setup
REF615_M1

 52a
 52b  M1 BKR Open
 (52Ha)  M1 O/C Trip
 M1 27 Operate
 M1 Volt. Healthy
 Open BKR
 Close BKR
 (BF Trip)

 ATS Open 52M1

 52a
 ATS Close 52M1
 52b
 (52Ha)
 ATS Auto
 Close Trans
 Transf. to S1
 Transf. to S2  ATS Open 52M2
 ATS Close 52M2

 Open BKR
 Close BKR
 (BF Trip)
REF615_M2
REF615_TIE (Not shown)

47
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Slide 95

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Relay basic communication setup

REF615_M1 REF615_TIE REF615_M2

Ethernet Switch

Slide 96

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Relay Advanced Communication Setup

REF615_M1 REF615_TIE REF615_M2

Ethernet Switch

48
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Slide 97

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Normal Operation Condition
(Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only
AUTO/ Note 1: Used for sync check
Source 1 MANUAL Source 2 only to close the tie breaker, if:
• The tie relay is on
(3 VTs) (3 VTs) MANUAL TRANSFER
mode
• Both 52-M1 and 52-M2
breakers are closed and
energized
(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 REF615 52
M1 M2

REF615 52
REF615
TIE

(N.O.)

52 52 52 52
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

Slide 98

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Normal Operation Condition

M1_27/47_OP
(S1_HEALTHY)
M1_CB_CLOSE AND
M1_CB_RACKED

TIE_ABTS_AUTO
AND T (s)
TIE_CB_OPEN AND SYSTEM_NORMAL
TIE_CB_RACKED (Normal Operation Condition)

M2_27/47_OP
M2_CB_CLOSE AND
(S2_HEALTHY)
M2_CB_RACKED

49
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Slide 44

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme Note 1: Used for sync check only to close

the tie breaker, if:
• The tie relay is on MANUAL
TRANSFER mode
Loss of Source 1 (Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only • Both 52-M1 and 52-M2 breakers are
AUTO/ closed and energized
Source 1 MANUAL Source 2
(3 VTs) (3 VTs)

(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 52
REF615
M1 M2

REF615 52
TIE
REF615

(N.O.)

52 52 52 52
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

Slide 100

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Loss of Source 1

M1_27/47_OP
(S1_LOSS)
M1_50/51_OP AND
M1_CB_OPEN
T (s)

TIE_ABTS_AUTO
AND AND CLOSE_TIE_CB
TIE_CB_OPEN (AUTO_TRANSFER)

M2_27/47_OP
AND
(S2_HEALTHY)
M2_CB_CLOSE

50
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Slide 46

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme Note 1: Used for sync check only to

close the tie breaker, if:
Return of source 1 – auto closed transition • The tie relay is on MANUAL
(Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only TRANSFER mode
• Both 52-M1 and 52-M2 breakers
AUTO/
MANUAL
are closed and energized
Source 1 Source 2
(3 VTs) (3 VTs)
SYNC_OK

(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 52
REF615
M1 M2

REF615 52
TIE
REF615

(N.O.)

52 52 52 52
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

Slide 102

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Return of source 1 – auto closed transition

T (s)

M1_CB_OPEN
AND CLOSE_M1_CB
SYNC_OK

(S1_HEALTHY)
TIE_ABTS_AUTO
AND AND T (s)
OPEN_TIE_CB
TIE_CB_CLOSE (AUTO_RESTRANFER)

M2_27/47_OP
AND
(S2_HEALTHY)
M2_CB_CLOSE

51
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Slide 48

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme Note 1: Used for sync check

only to close the tie breaker, if:
• The tie relay is on MANUAL
Return of source 1 – Failed Sync Check (Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only TRANSFER mode
• Both 52-M1 and 52-M2
AUTO/
breakers are closed and
Source 1 MANUAL Source 2 energized
(3 VTs) (3 VTs)
SYNC_FAIL

(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 52
REF615
M1 Manual M2
CLOSE
REF615 52
TIE
REF615

(N.O.)

Manual
52 52 52 52
OPEN
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

Slide 49

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme Note 1: Used for sync check only

to close the tie breaker, if:
• The tie relay is on MANUAL
Loss of Both Sources (Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only
TRANSFER mode
• Both 52-M1 and 52-M2
AUTO/
breakers are closed and
Source 1 MANUAL Source 2 energized
(3 VTs) (3 VTs)

(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 52
REF615
M1 M2

REF615 52
TIE
REF615

(N.O.)

52 52 52 52
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

52
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Slide 105

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Loss of Both Sources

M1_27/47_OP
(S1_LOSS)
AND OPEN_M1_CB
M1_CB_CLOSE

TIE_ABTS_AUTO
AND AND OPEN_TIE_CB
TIE_CB_CLOSE (BLACK_OUT)

M2_27/47_OP
AND OPEN_M2_CB
(S2_LOSS)
M2_CB_CLOSE

Slide 51

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme Note 1: Used for sync check only to

close the tie breaker, if:
• The tie relay is on MANUAL
Return of source 2 & loss of source 1 (Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only TRANSFER mode
AUTO/ • Both 52-M1 and 52-M2
Source 1 MANUAL Source 2 breakers are closed and
energized
(3 VTs) (3 VTs)

(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 52
REF615
M1 M2

REF615 52
TIE
REF615

(N.O.)

52 52 52 52
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

53
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Slide 107

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Return of source 2 & loss of source 1

M1_27/47_OP
(S1_LOSS)
AND OPEN_M1_CB
M1_CB_OPEN

TIE_ABTS_AUTO
T (s)
AND AND CLOSE_TIE_CB
TIE_CB_OPEN (AUTO_TRANSFER)

T (s)
M2_27/47_OP
AND CLOSE_M2_CB
M2_CB_OPEN (S2_RETURN)

Slide 53

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme Note 1: Used for sync check only to

close the tie breaker, if:
• The tie relay is on MANUAL
Maintenance transfer for source 1 (Note 1) (Note 1) Vs only TRANSFER mode
AUTO/ • Both 52-M1 and 52-M2
Source 1 MANUAL Source 2 breakers are closed and
energized
(3 VTs) (3 VTs)
SYNC_OK

(GOOSE) (GOOSE)

52 52
REF615
M1 Manual M2
OPEN
REF615 52
TIE
REF615

(N.O.)

Manual
52 52 52 52
CLOSE
F1‐1 F1‐2 F2‐1 F2‐2

REF615 REF615 REF615 REF615

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Slide 109

Automatic Bus Transfer Scheme
Maintenance transfer for source 1

M1_27/47_OP
(S1_HEALTHY)
AND
M1_CB_CLOSE

TIE_ABTS_MANUAL
SYNC_OK AND AND MANUAL_CLOSE_TIE_CB_ENABLED
TIE_CB_OPEN (MANTENANCE_TRANSFER)

M2_27/47_OP
AND
(S2_HEALTHY)
M2_CB_CLOSE

Slide 110

Bus Protection
Novel method using GOOSE messaging

– Utilization of directional overcurrent elements of feeder protection relays. 
Dedicated bus protection relay is not required (reduces footprint)
– Reliable: operates only against faults on the protected bus
• All contributing breakers are tripped and block‐closed
• Acceptable operating speed
– Secure: able to distinguish external (through) faults
• Allows the individual breaker to trip first

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Slide 111

Bus Protection
Unique features

– Flexible to multiple incoming/contributing sources
– The bus protection is accomplished by each breaker’s associated relay, which is 
usually already existing, i.e. feeder protection relay and breaker failure relay
– A “master” relay is assigned to perform the bus protection scheme with a  
“backup” relay automatically assuming the “master” relays operation during relay 
failure
– All contributing relays communicate to the “master” and “backup” relays via 
Ethernet based IEC61850 GOOSE communication

Slide 112

Bus Protection
Scheme development

– IEC61850 compliant and capable of GOOSE communication
• If the constant integrity/quality check of the GOOSE communication is bad, the 
scheme shall be disabled and an alarm is issued immediately
– Two phase and ground directional overcurrent elements:
• 67P/N‐1 as reverse direction (REV) for detecting fault current flow into the bus
• 67P/N‐2 as forward direction (FWD) for both detecting and tripping fault 
current flow out of the bus (through) fault

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Slide 113

Bus Protection
Principle of operation (internal bus fault)

– Bus fault occurs
– At least one reverse direction 
(REV) element is detected
67‐1 67‐1 67‐1 67‐1
– Not any forward direction (FWD)  P/N
67‐2 (Master)
P/N
67‐2
P/N
67‐2
P/N
67‐2
element is pending P/N
(Backup)
P/N P/N P/N

– The “master” relay trips and 
REV REV REV REV

block‐closes all contributing  Source #1 Source #2 Feeder #1 Feeder #2

breaker via GOOSE
Ethernet Switch

Slide 114

Bus Protection
Principle of operation (external through fault)

– An external/through fault 
occurs, i.e., on Feeder #2
– Feeder #2 relay FWD detected
67‐1 67‐1 67‐1 67‐1
– The rest of relays either see  P/N
67‐2 (Master)
P/N
67‐2
P/N
67‐2
P/N
67‐2
REV or not FWD P/N
(Backup)
P/N P/N P/N

– Feeder #2 breaker trips
REV REV REV FWD

Source #1 Source #2 Feeder #1 Feeder #2

Ethernet Switch

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Slide 115

Bus Protection
Logic diagram
Peer Relay Peer Relay Master Relay
GOOSE_VALID ALARM
(FUTURE)
FWD 0
10ms AN AN
FWD 0 D (NO_FWD) D
10ms
FWD 0
10ms
S
Q TRIP_BUS
R
(FUTURE)
REV O
REV R (ANY_REV)

REV

(FUTURE)
CB_OPEN AN
CB_OPEN D (ALL_CB_OPEN)

CB_OPEN

Legend: GOOSE Signal

Slide 116

Bus Protection
Scheme validation testing results

Operating Times for Internal Bus Fault Operating Times for External Through Fault

Processing Time ‐ Includes relay time only

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Slide 117

Bus Protection
Backup protection 67‐1
P/N
67‐2
67‐1
P/N
67‐2
67‐1
P/N
67‐2
67‐1
P/N
67‐2
P/N P/N P/N P/N

Source #1 Source #2 Feeder #1 Feeder #2

E‐Switch

52 Master Relay 52 Backup Relay

GOOSE_VALID ALARM
IRF

NO_FWD
AN
Source #1 Source #2 D
S
ANY_REV Q TRIP_BUS
R
BI

ALL_CB_OPEN

TRANSF
TRIP
86/94

Legend: GOOSE Signal

Slide 118

Bus Protection
Communication redundancy

67‐1 67‐1 67‐1 67‐1

P/N P/N P/N P/N
67‐2 (Master) 67‐2 67‐2 67‐2
P/N P/N P/N P/N
(Backup)

Source #1 Source #2 Feeder #1 Feeder #2

Ethernet Switch Ethernet Switch

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Slide 119

Bus Protection
Benefits versus conventional schemes

– Safer to handle relays on energized switchgear due to digitized CTs and PTs
– Can be applied to either AIS or GIS switchgear
– Adaptable towards increases in system fault levels without the need to upgrade system components
– Flexible to bus expansion without labor intensive scheme changes versus conventional schemes.
– Reduction of wiring versus conventional schemes that removes the requirements for dedicated bus CTs
– Improved scheme security by being immune to the effects of CT saturation
– Low or no cost of bus protection scheme
– Communication redundancy
– Simpler

Slide 120

Protection and Control for Digital Switchgear
Summary

− Based on IEC61850 − Provides protection using voltage and current 
• Reduce wires with GOOSE messages sensors for
• Takes advantage of sampled values (IEC  • Feeders
61850‐9‐2LE) • Line Differential 
− Reliable communications • Motor applications for small motors
− Provides protection using standard CTs and PTs for
• Transformers
• Large Motors
• Generators
− Cost effective Bus Protection
− Cost Effective Automatic Transfer Schemes

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Part 4: Digital switchgear applications 
and value proposition

Slide 122

Topics

− Recap ‐ What is digital switchgear?
− Benefits of digital switchgear
− Examples

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Slide 123

ANSI medium voltage digital switchgear
Next phase in the evolution of switchgear

Current
Digital Switchgear is not only a new product, it is also a new 
61850
Voltage
Temperature
Humidity
concept in protection, control, and automation.  Partial discharge
Contact wear
Other …

SAFETY & SIMPLICITY are the most significant 
benefits, but there are many more. 

Both, sensors & common communication bus, are essential 
to realize the full benefits of digital switchgear.

Slide 124

ANSI switchgear 
Levels of digitalization
Digital switchgear Description Main switchgear value
1. Reduced weight
2. Space saving (primarily due to elimination of 
Simply replace CTs & PTs with Current & Voltage 
PT compartment)
Sensors.
3. Eliminates problems of saturation and 
Level 0 Ferroresonance
Add additional sensor packages (e.g., temperature) as 
4. Safety – no possibility of unsafe voltages from 
needed. 
open CT secondary circuits

Above +
Above + IEC61850‐8‐1 & GOOSE messaging 5. Significant reduction in wiring between 
Level 1 Ethernet cabling between Protective Relays. frames
6. Late customization

Above + Process bus (61850‐9‐2LE)
Requires use of Merging Units (MUs), time  Above +
Level 2 synchronization devices & Ethernet switches. 7. Improved flexibility – changes in protection 
Fiber optic connection from bay (switchgear) to  only require IED level changes.
substation.

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Slide 125

Is Digital Switchgear constructed differently?
Form factor permits switchgear space savings

Voltage sensors
More flexibility in placement of
voltage sensors as compared to
PTs. Major space savings possible
if we use them as bus supports.
Current sensors

Are put in the same

location as CTs.

Slide 126

ANSI medium voltage digital switchgear

The Five Ss
Voltage
sensors Safety Simplicity
• Low energy analog output eliminates hazard   Fewer wires to install, commission & maintain
associated with open CT secondary
 Fewer parts to fail leads to increased reliability
• Fewer wires to install makes switchgear easier to 
maintain Speed
• Solution is continuously self‐supervising with 
Current
 Concept allows for compression of time from order 
maximized error detection
sensors to delivery
Savings
 Late customization possible
• Form factor of voltage sensors = switchgear 
space savings Sustainability
• Size of current & voltage sensors = weight   Universal standards (IEC61850) enable future 
reduction system expansion
• Broad application range of the sensors =   Handle future load changes without mechanical 
inventory savings reconfiguration of system
• Significant energy savings during operation
 Lower lifetime environmental impact
• Savings on total cost of ownership

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Slide 127

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Speed
Late changes / late customization

 Optimized set-up for quick and easy switchgear sourcing

 Set-up is flexible towards last-minute changes
 The determination of wiring philosophy at an early
project stage is not required
 The determination of instrument transformer values at
an early project stage is not required

Slide 128

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Speed
Flexibility for varying applications

 Changing loads does not require changes in hardware like

instrument transformers
 Saves time and money during planning and execution
 Improved accuracy and range of current and voltage
measurement for protection and control
 Meets latest cybersecurity and communication
performance standards
 Manufacturer independent communication standard
 Ready for easy SCADA integration

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Slide 129

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Speed
Quicker Delivery Time ‐ from order to completion

 No need for early definition of details like CT/PT data...

 For all applications & relays? No, but for nearly all of them!
 Reduced engineering and easier configuration selection.
 Reduced project administration and engineering costs
 Minimized time to receive the project documentation
 CT/PT data not required
 Flexibility towards last-minute changes
 Most changes are simply realizable within the IED’s logic,
only minor changes in wiring and schematics (if any)

Slide 130

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Safety
Substation availability and personnel safety

 Solution has less live parts and is flexible towards grid disturbances
 Ferro-resonance free solution without conventional PTs
 Solution has increased safety for personnel during testing/operation
 No dangerous CT secondary signals that could be touched
 Solution is continuously self-supervising with maximized error detection
 Solutions with less use of material, thus with less aging stress and
reduced chance of failure

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Digital Switchgear Benefits – Savings
Space saving solution / reduced weight up to 15%

 Solution has reduced weight

 You can do away with the PT compartment! …
 Save frames (reduces frame count)
 Conventional approach
 Greater flexibility in configurations.  Wiring between devices must be done
individually per signal
 Solution does not require extra frames for
instrumentation. Communication Network (Ethernet)

 Greatly reduced wiring

…

 Horizontal GOOSE communication

 Number of interconnections is equal to
number of devices

Slide 132

Space and Weight Reduction – Example
Conventional 15kV 36” wide metal‐clad switchgear

324” (27’)
Estimated Weight (lbs.)  33625
CT and PT Wiring (ft.) 2500
CT and PT # of Wire Terminations 910
A/W/T Hours 135
Number of Shipping Splits  3

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Slide 133

Space and Weight Reduction – Example
15kV 26” wide metal‐clad switchgear with same functionality

- 27.8%

234” (19.5’)
Estimated Weight (lbs.)  29100
CT and PT Wiring (ft.) 2500 - 13.5%
CT and PT # of Wire Terminations 910
A/W/T Hours 135
Number of Shipping Splits  3

Slide 134

Space and Weight Reduction – Example
15kV 26” wide digital switchgear with same functionality

- 25.1%
Estimated Weight (lbs.)  25182 - 88.4%
Sensor Wiring (ft.) 289
- 91.6%
Sensor # of Wire Terminations 76
- 82.6%
A/W/T Hours 24
- 33.3%
Number of Shipping Splits  2
*compared with conventional 36in Wide Switchgear

- 35.80% ~ 5 business day reduction assuming 3 workers

208” (17.33’)

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Slide 135

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: Typical MTM arrangement

 Typical applications involving Main-Tie-Main

arrangements require transfer schemes which PT 1 PT 2 Main
2
can only be achieved by having both current and
voltage measurements.
 Frames need to house breakers, PTs/CTs, and Main Main Main Tie
Tie 2
bus tie transition. Therefore, 3 frame M-T-M 1 1

configuration has become very common.

 PT compartments take up crucial space. When
replaced by a voltage sensor this space
becomes available.

Slide 136

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: Two Frame Main‐Tie‐Main Lineup Single Line Drawing & Front View

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Slide 137

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: Typical MTM arrangement

The use of non-conventional instrument transformers (NCITs) like sensors in place of current
and voltage transformers will allow for a reduction from 3 to 2 frames for M-T-M arrangements.
In addition, the use of sensors makes the 2-frames more flexible since current and voltage
sensors are not dependent on ratios/ratings (they are programed in the IED).
Therefore, regardless of load variances, the same lineup can now be used for the following
schemes:
 Open Transition
 Closed Transition
 Fast Transfer
 Zone Selective Interlocking

Slide 138

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: ANSI switchgear at a US polymer chemicals complex

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Slide 139

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: ANSI switchgear at a US polymer chemicals complex

Voltage Sensor

to relay

to relay

Footprint: ‐25%, costs: ‐8.9%

Slide 140

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: IEC switchgear on an offshore platform in Europe

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Slide 141

Digital switchgear benefits
Reference project: IEC switchgear on an offshore platform in Europe

Footprint: ‐6.5%, costs: ‐3%

Slide 142

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Savings
Reduced total cost of ownership
 Reduced losses during operation
 Sensor losses are low
 Saving potential of up to 250 MWh over 30 years (sample
switchgear with 14 frames & 42 CTs or Sensors)
 Improved equipment reliability
 Fewer live parts, fewer failure opportunities reducing outage
potential and troubleshooting costs
 Reduced inventory need
 Lower inital price due to fewer frames needed. This solution requires
less space
 Complete PT compartments can be eliminated
 Reduced space means lower costs for housing

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Slide 143

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Energy Savings
Feeder CTs Number of  Number  Power Energy consumption in 30 
panels of CTs consumption years
Incoming 1000:1/1A 2 6 140 VA 36 698 kWh Calculation for switchgear 
CT w/1A rated

with 14 frames: 
secondary

Outgoing 1 200:1/1A 8 24 448 VA 117 776 kWh

current

− 2 incoming feeders 
Outgoing 2 100:1/1A 4 12 102 VA 26 724 kWh with CTs 1000:x/x A 
− 8 outgoing feeders 
Total ‐ 14 42 690 VA 181 198 kWh with CTs 200:x/x A 
− 4 outgoing feeders 
Incoming 1000:5/5A 2 6 172 VA 45 244 kWh with CTs 100:x/x A 
CT w/5A rated
secondary
current

Outgoing 1 200:5/5A 8 24 629 VA 165 208 kWh All CTs have 2 cores –

Outgoing 2 100:5/5A 4 12 179 VA 47 124 kWh protection core class 
5P20, 20 VA connected to 
Total ‐ 14 42 980 VA 257 576 kWh the IED and metering 
core class 0.5FS5, 5 VA 
Incoming 2 6 0.0000 VA 0.000 01 kWh connected to the analog 
ampere‐meter. 
Outgoing 1 8 24 0.0000 VA 0.000 04 kWh
Sensor

Outgoing 2 4 12 0.0000 VA 0.000 02 kWh

Total ‐ 14 42 0.0000 VA 0.000 07 kWh

Slide 144

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Inventory Savings
Variants

Voltage 10’s
transformers

Current 100’s
transformers

Full range: up to 4000 A, 63 kA at 15 kV

2
Sensors
1

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Slide 145

Digital Switchgear Benefits – Sustainability
Lower environmental impact

 Solution uses less material

 Less steel, less copper, less insulation, …
 Solution with reduced losses
Conventional
 Less energy required to operate the gear as there
reduced losses in the sensors
 Solution can save significant level of CO2

Digital

Slide 146

ANSI digital switchgear
Designed to meet the needs of the future (and today)
Minimal variation >
Low inventory needed
Be “smart”! Be flexible!
Be simple!
Be on time!
Be reliable! Measurement devices with high
Possibility of late accuracy over an extended range.
Simplified wiring customization Can deal with varying load flows.

Be environmentally friendly! Be future proof!

Significant energy savings
Be safe!
Be efficient!
Be easy! Safety by design
Space & weight saving

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74