A Simple Design Method of Unequal Spacing Arrangement for Substation Grounding Grid

Abstract

To balance the potential distribution on the surface of a substation, an equal spacing arrangement of the grounding grid conductors is not an economical solution. The implementable solution is an unequal placement of its constituent elements. The design methodologies of such a configuration are complex and require computer-assisted numerical analysis. This paper proposes and validates a simple method of arranging the conductors of the grounding grid that guarantees the reduction of touch and step voltages, ensures the efficiency of the material used and has no limitations on its applicability for atypical substation surfaces (too large or too small), respectively for few or many parallel conductors. The proposed algorithm is analyzed, through the CYMGRD Substation Grounding Program, compared to the technologies currently applied, for the substation grounding grid presented as an example in the IEEE Guide for Safety in AC Substation Grounding 80 ™ -2013 standard.

Comparative Analysis of Equal and Unequal Grounding Grid Configurations by Compression Ratio and Least Square Curve Fitting Techniques

“…80-2000. In [21][22][23], the authors proposed a new mathematical function of the cost for designing economics and effective T shaped and L shaped grid configurations. The cost function used here include number of rods and conductors, dimensions of ground rods, horizontal and vertical conductor, revetment and excavation area.…”

Development and Application of Substation Grounding Grid Topology Detection and Recognition System

“…The grounding grid is an important guarantee for the safe operation of the substation, and its grounding performance is directly related to the personal safety of the substation staff and a variety of electrical equipment safety and normal operation, so the detection of the grounding grid state has been designed and production and operation of the department's attention [1][2][3][4] .…”