A substation plays a vital role in the electrical grid, serving as a crucial site for power distribution. It serves as the connection point for the cables, whether above or below ground, that deliver electricity to homes and businesses. In a basic electricity network, there are three key components: generation, transmission, and distribution. The substation is positioned between the generation and transmission phases, but it can also be located within the transmission phase or between transmission and distribution. Typically, substation construction is site-specific, with power lines transmitting electricity to connected loads.
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Mobile Substation: Purpose and Definition
The term “mobile” signifies the ability to transport something from one place to another. In the context of substations, they serve as sites where electricity from generator plants is converted and controlled for distribution. Mobile substations are designed to be movable systems for electricity control and transformation. They can be transported via rail, road, air, or sea, although road transport is the most common method. These substations are mounted onto containers, trailers, or truck engines.
Applications
Mobile Substations Find Applications in Various Scenarios, Including:
- Emergency Power Outages: In the event of a fault that cuts off the power supply, utility services respond by relocating and reconnecting a mobile substation while troubleshooting and repairing the faulty one.
- Planned Outages: When a planned outage occurs, a mobile substation can be deployed to ensure a continuous power supply to outgoing feeders.
- Grid-Connected Remote Areas: Remote locations, such as mining sites, deserts, or forests, often require electricity for operating equipment. Instead of constructing a new permanent substation, a mobile substation can be used to provide power as needed.
- Mobile Power Requirements: Certain activities like mining operations or military camps demand the movement of electricity alongside the load. In such cases, a mobile substation proves to be the most suitable solution.
- Distributed Generation Integration: During the design phase of a grid network, mobile substations can be utilized to test the network’s performance if the design were to be implemented permanently. The location’s impact on quality and reliability is evaluated as well.
For nearly half a century, Swartz Engineering has been at the forefront of industry safety. They are a family-owned company specializing in power distribution for the electrical industry. They are the leading manufacturer of Electrical Substations for Railways.
