Substation Automation System

A substation Automation System is a specific design system built to optimize the power distribution within the Smart Grid environment. The system will help to optimize Power systems distribution operation performance like Control and Monitoring of the Power Grid coverage area.

However, optimizing the power distribution system is key to getting the optimum result while operating the system. That is why automation will improve the power distribution system using a specific protocol. Some companies focused on developing the Smart Grid Solution like Siemens, ABB, Schneider, GE, etc. They have developed the devices that can support the Smart Grid System to be applied. The hardware for Controlling, Protection, and Communication within the Industrial Standard will help on every system level.

Substation Automation System Architecture

A typical substation automation system (SAS) architecture consists of several layers, each performing specific functions and communicating with adjacent layers.

Field LayerThis layer comprises physical components such as switches, transformers, circuit breakers, sensors, and other field devices. The field devices generate data such as voltage, current, and temperature, which are collected and transmitted to the control center.
Bay LevelThis layer consists of intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) that collect data from field devices, process it, and communicate it to the control center. IEDs include protective relays, meters, and RTUs.
Station LevelThis layer provides the interface between the bay level and the control center. It includes local HMI (Human-Machine Interface) displays, remote terminal units (RTUs), and communication equipment such as routers and switches.
Control CenterThis layer is responsible for supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) of the substation. It comprises of the SCADA system software, operator workstations, and communication equipment such as WAN/LAN routers and switches.
Substation Automation System Architecture

The SAS architecture allows for the collection, processing, and management of data from field devices to be performed in a scalable and distributed manner. The system also provides for fault detection and isolation, outage management, and remote control of substation equipment.

The architecture may vary depending on the specific application, and newer architectures may include additional layers such as the process bus layer or the cloud layer, which utilize advanced communication and data processing technologies.

Here are the examples of ABB MicroSCADA X for Substation and Siemens SICAM PAS Application Station Automation. Starting from the Process Level, Bay Level, and Substation Level or the Station Level is a better way to manage the system. Thanks to the IEC-61850 as the standard protocol communication in the automation substation level, it helps much when many vendors are involved within a system.

Microscada-X-ABB
Microscada-X-ABB

Substation automation system siemens

Substation automation system siemens

Siemens offers a range of substation automation system (SAS) solutions that are designed to provide reliable and efficient control and monitoring of power grids. The Siemens SAS solutions are designed to meet the specific needs of various power transmission and distribution applications, from medium to high voltage substations.

Siemens SAS solutions are based on open communication standards such as IEC 61850 and provide a high degree of interoperability with other equipment and systems. The SAS solutions offer advanced functions such as fault detection and isolation, outage management, and remote control of substation equipment.

Substation automation system key benefits

The key benefits of a substation automation system (SAS) are:

Improved reliability SAS provides real-time monitoring and control of substation equipment, enabling faster fault detection, isolation, and restoration, thereby reducing the likelihood and duration of power outages.
Enhanced safetySAS reduces the need for manual intervention in substation operations, minimizing the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
Improved efficiencySAS enables more efficient use of power resources, leading to reduced energy losses, improved power quality, and lower operating costs.
Increased automationSAS allows for the remote control of substation equipment, reducing the need for on-site personnel and providing greater flexibility in system operation.
ScalabilitySAS solutions are designed to be scalable, allowing for the addition of new equipment and functionality as required.
InteroperabilitySAS is designed to be interoperable with other systems and equipment, allowing for seamless integration with existing systems and the adoption of new technologies.
Data managementSAS provides advanced data management and analysis capabilities, enabling better decision-making and operational optimization.
Substation automation system key benefits

Power Distribution System

The operation of the Power Distribution System will support everyone in getting a good power source in their location. The energy management system of power distribution will support the best productivity. How to keep the Power Grid stable? By using the Automation Solutions from companies like ABB, GE, Siemens, Schneider, and the others vendor, it is possible to make a transformation from Analog to Digital data.

Remote Terminal Unit

Besides that Solution, there are other options like the Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) device to communicate the Local system to the Control Center. A device like SICAM A8000 from Siemens or ABB RTU 560 is the sample device that can help the local system communicate with the Control Center.

Intelligent Electronic Device in Substation Automation System

In general, it is called IED or an Intelligent Electronic Device. Every hardware from each Smart Grid Solution Company has its own software to write the parameterization on every level within Substation Automation. Here is an example comparison of the IEDs Hardware and Software from Siemens and ABB.

SIMATIC-IPC
ManufacturerSIEMENS
HardwareSIMATIC IPC
SoftwareSICAM PAS, SICAM SCC, SIMATIC WinCC
SIEMENS Substation Automation
SYS600C-ABB
ManufacturerABB
HardwareSYS600C
SoftwareMicroSCADA X SYS600
ABB Substation Automation
SIPROTEC-5
ManufacturerSIEMENS
HardwareSIPROTEC 5
SoftwareDIGSI 5
SIEMENS IEDs
Relion-IEDs-ABB
ManufacturerABB
HardwareRelion 650 series IEDs
SoftwarePCM600
ABB IEDs