Power networks are vulnerable to rapid short circuits, leading to significant issues such as damage to power control systems and revenue loss for utility companies.
Background
A sudden short circuit in the power grid creates two major challenges for utility providers: damage to critical power control systems and revenue loss. The resulting transients can harm high-value assets like regional substations and feeder stations. Research suggests that over 80% of network faults are due to short-term disruptions caused by power line failures.
For power utility companies, maintaining grid availability is vital. Any power outage not only affects customers but also leads to financial losses and damage to the company’s credibility.
To mitigate the impact of these issues, utilities have implemented automated devices called reclosers. These devices can automatically open and close when transient faults occur on medium voltage lines. Although breakers can also be used to segment the network, they require much more power to trip and are slower to reset. Reclosers, on the other hand, use less power to operate, can be controlled remotely, and can be placed at any point along the distribution network, providing better protection for valuable assets by responding quickly to faults before they affect substations or feeders. Reclosers also offer smart data on power quality, which helps utilities with preventative maintenance.
The Challenge
For reclosers to work effectively, they require reliable, real-time connectivity to enable instant control during outages or disruptions in the power lines. These devices need to be remotely triggered and must send data back to a central operations center, allowing utility companies to prioritize restoration efforts, reduce customer downtime, minimize revenue loss, and prevent further infrastructure damage.
The key challenge for utility companies is providing a cost-effective and dependable communication solution that can support the remote control and monitoring of these devices across the power distribution network.
Solution
Using industrial 4G modems or WiFi converters, utility companies can connect their reclosers to controllers via RS232 or RS485 interfaces. The data is then transmitted to a remote cloud server. When an issue occurs, the system triggers an alarm, notifying the appropriate personnel. This setup is easy to integrate with reclosers and can be deployed throughout the entire power distribution network.
Through this remote control and monitoring system, operators can keep track of the status of the reclosers, monitor current and voltage levels in the power supply, and quickly analyze issues to implement corrective actions. Additionally, they can open and close circuit breakers remotely in the event of faults.
The Power Recloser App enables field engineers to communicate with the Automatic Circuit Reclosers via a Wi-Fi Access Point. This eliminates the need for engineers to climb poles, improving safety by avoiding potentially hazardous conditions, such as working at high altitudes in poor weather near high-voltage cables.
Benefits
1. Reduced Operational Costs
By eliminating the need for engineers to manually reset decentralized reclosers, utilities can significantly lower labor and transportation costs.
2. Improved Control and Visibility
With a smart grid, utilities can quickly address load flow issues and reroute power as needed, optimizing network efficiency.
3. Secure Integration
The system uses an IP-based network with two-way encryption, ensuring secure integration with existing IT infrastructure.
4. Cost-Effective Pricing
Flexible pricing options allow for consistent budget planning, making the system a cost-effective solution for utilities of all sizes.
Conclusion
Remote monitoring and control of reclosers offer utility companies a smarter, safer, and more efficient way to manage their power distribution networks. With enhanced visibility, reduced operational costs, and improved safety for field engineers, this technology ensures that utilities can respond to power disruptions more quickly and efficiently, ultimately enhancing grid reliability and customer satisfaction.