ATS Schematics and Logic Analysis for a Substation

415V AC Auxiliary Supply Panel

electrical-engineering-portal.com/ats-schematics-logic-analysis-substation-415v-ac-auxiliary-supply-panel

By Muhammad Kashif June 3, 2024

LV Automatic Transfer Schemes

In modern electrical power systems, ensuring a reliable and continuous supply of electricity
is critical, particularly in facilities where downtime can result in significant operational
disruptions and financial losses. Low voltage automatic transfer schemes at substations play
a vital role in maintaining this continuity by seamlessly switching between different power
sources in the event of a fault or power outage.

ATS Schematics and Logic Analysis for a Substation 415V AC Auxiliary Supply Panel

This article delves into the intricacies of low voltage automatic transfer schemes at
substations. We will explore the design and implementation of these systems, providing
detailed insights into various ATS components and their functions.

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Within this framework, the Low Voltage Bus Coupler acts as a bridge, facilitating the
synchronization and transfer of power between different busbars. Interlocking mechanisms
further enhance the safety and reliability of these systems, ensuring that operations proceed
smoothly without the risk of power conflicts or overloads.

The discussion begins with an overview of the AC supply single line diagram, which forms
the backbone of any power distribution network. We then examine the 250kVA diesel
generator supply incoming panel, a crucial element for backup power in emergency
situations. The functionality and importance of the low voltage bus coupler are also analyzed,
highlighting its role in enhancing the flexibility and reliability of the power distribution system.
Interlocking mechanisms within the low voltage substation auto transfer scheme are
scrutinized, emphasizing their importance in preventing conflicting operations and ensuring
safe and efficient switching. The operations of auto transformer schemes, including
automatic, manual, and off operation selections, are thoroughly discussed to provide a
comprehensive understanding of their practical applications.

By the end of this article, readers will have a clear grasp of the operational principles, design
considerations, and practical implementation strategies for low voltage automatic transfer
schemes at substations.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the field, this article offers
valuable knowledge to enhance your understanding and application of these
critical systems in electrical power distribution.

Table of Contents:

1. Low Voltage Automatics Transfer Scheme at the Substations

Substations are equipped with low voltage power supplies, often referred to as auxiliary
supplies, which are provided by auxiliary transformers. There may be one or more auxiliary
transformers within a substation. Given the critical nature of substation operations,
redundancy is essential to ensure a backup option if the auxiliary supply fails.

One approach to achieve redundancy is by installing two auxiliary transformers. In the event
of a failure of one transformer, the other can continue to supply power. These auxiliary
transformers receive their power from distribution transformers, which are, in turn, powered
by the main power transformer.

For instance, in a 132/11kV substation, the voltage is stepped down from 132kV to 11kV by
the power transformer and then from 11kV to 400V by the distribution transformer.

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In the specific case of the substation under review, which has only one 132kV feeder, a fault
or maintenance on this line would lead to a complete power failure at the substation.
Therefore, simply having two auxiliary transformers does not provide sufficient redundancy.
To address this, a backup 250kVA generator is utilized. This generator ensures that if the
132kV line fails, or if there is a failure or maintenance of the auxiliary transformer, the
substation can still be powered.

Figure 1 – 132 kV substation single line diagram

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 Figure 1 – 132 kV substation single line diagram

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2. AC Supply Panel Single Line Diagram
In this example, the substation employs a single AC low voltage feeder scheme. It is a
132kV substation with one auxiliary transformer fed by a 132kV transmission line. This line is
connected to a 132/11kV transformer, which steps the voltage down to 11kV, and then further
steps it down to low voltage (LV) using an 11/0.4kV distribution transformer.

If the 132kV line trips, the substation’s supply is interrupted.

To mitigate this risk, a backup generator is provided. The substation contains two LV buses
with a coupler between them, as illustrated in Figure 2, which shows the single line diagram
of the AC incoming panel.

The busbars are designated as the essential bus and the normal load bus. The power
connections in the substation are divided into two categories: essential loads and normal
loads. It is important to note that the generator does not provide full backup for the
auxiliary power rating; it only supplies the essential load.
Essential loads include emergency lighting, DC battery charger supply, fire-fighting systems,
fire alarm system supply, and other critical equipment. Additionally, the generator cannot
operate in parallel with the national grid supply because no synchronization facility is
provided.

Therefore, an interlocking arrangement is included at the panel to ensure safe operation.

Figure 2 – The Single Line Diagram of the Substation Auxiliary Supply Panel (click to zoom)

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 Figure 2 – The Single Line Diagram of the Substation Auxiliary Supply Panel

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3. Auxiliary Transformer Supply Incoming Panel

Refer to Figure 2, which shows the low voltage (LV) incoming feeder emanating from the LV
side of an 11/0.4 kV transformer. The LV side of the transformer is connected in a star
configuration with a four-wire system, including a neutral connection. The auxiliary
transformer, also known as the station service transformer, is connected to the normal
busbar.

On the cable side, an under and over-voltage relay is fitted. In case of voltage fluctuations
beyond the limit, the incoming circuit breaker (ACB) trips with a suitable time delay. The
under or over-voltage relay also senses the absence of voltage and ultimately trips the
incoming breaker Q01.

This means the scheme automatically isolates the auxiliary supply from the busbar if the grid
voltage supply fails.

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Additionally, a single-phase voltmeter is connected to the cable side of the feeder. This
allows voltage monitoring as soon as the cable is energized. The voltmeter is connected
to a multi-phase selector switch, enabling the checking of each phase voltage individually.
Hence, this voltmeter indicates the line-side voltages.
Next, a current transformer (CT) with a ratio of 100/5 A is connected. This is a three-phase
current transformer, and the polarity markings of the CT can also be seen. Here, P1 is at the
cable side and P2 is at the busbar side. The CT’s secondary wiring is further connected to
the energy meter, VAR meter, and ammeters.

Figure 3 – Wiring Diagram of the Substation Auxiliary Supply Panel (click to zoom)

Figure 3 – Wiring Diagram of the Substation Auxiliary Supply Panel

Three-phase indication lamps are provided, indicating RED, YELLOW, and BLUE phases.
The Q01 is the air circuit breaker (ACB) with a rating of 1000 A continuous current and 65 kA
short-time rating. The “M” indicates that the ACB is motor-operated. The circuit breaker is
connected to the LV busbar, which has several feeders connected to it.

The feeder that provides power to the busbar is called the incoming feeder or incoming
circuit breaker, while those taking power out of the busbar are called outgoing feeders or
outgoing circuit breakers.

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A busbar scheme can have more than one incoming feeder.

The busbar is rated at 1000 A, 65 kA, 415 volts, and 50 Hz. It is important to note that the
continuous current carrying capacity rating of the incoming circuit breaker and the
busbar is the same. These points need to be considered when designing the AC bus
transfer schemes or AC schemes. The short-time rating of the busbar is 65 kA, which is also
similar to the incoming circuit breaker.
The short-circuit rating depends on the maximum fault level at that voltage level and needs
to be the same for all the switchgear. The continuous current rating depends upon the
connected load, which in this case is less than 1000 A; hence, the busbar and breaker rating
are chosen as 1000 A.

The busbar is also provided with voltage indication. A single-phase voltmeter with a multi-
phase selection selector switch (Vs) is installed in series. One phase voltage can be checked
at a time, and using the selector switch, other phase voltages can be seen as well. An MCB
is provided to protect the voltage circuit. An annunciator is also provided at the panel.

Additionally, you can see the heater indication lamps and fan on/off control in this incoming
panel. The auxiliary transformer incoming panel is connected to the normal load bus, where
non-essential loads are connected. Non-essential loads are those that can be switched off
when the substation auxiliary supply fails.

Figure 4 – The Single Line Diagram of the Auxiliary Transformer Incoming Panel

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 Figure 4 – The Single Line Diagram of the Auxiliary Transformer Incoming Panel

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4. 250kVA Diesel Generator Supply Incoming Panel
A diesel generator is provided in the substation as a backup power supply to ensure
continuity of power to essential loads when the main AC supply fails. The configuration of the
diesel generator power supply closely resembles the auxiliary supply incoming panel, with
some differences in the equipment ratings.

Refer to Figure 5 below.

The current transformer (CT) in the diesel generator setup has a rating of 400/5 A, indicating
that the primary current is 400 amps and the secondary current is 5 amps. The CT
reduces the current by a factor of 80, meaning if 160 amps flow through the primary, the
secondary current will be 2 amps. This CT rating of 400/5 A is lower than the 1000/5 A rating
in the auxiliary supply panel.
This indicates that the diesel generator incoming panel cannot support the full load of the
substation, hence it is connected to the essential load bus.

Essential loads are critical systems that must remain operational when the auxiliary
power supply fails. These include systems such as battery charger supplies and
emergency lighting.

Figure 5 – The Single Line Diagram of the Diesel Generator Incoming Panel

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 Figure 5 – The Single Line Diagram of the Diesel Generator Incoming Panel

The air circuit breaker (ACB) designated as Q02 in the diesel generator panel is rated at 400
amps, compared to the 1000 amps rating of the auxiliary supply incoming panel. This
difference underscores that the generator panel is designed to handle a smaller load.

The diesel generator incoming panel is equipped with voltmeters on both the cable side and
the busbar side, facilitating voltage monitoring at both points.

Additionally, an under and over-voltage relay is included in the diesel generator panel.
This relay will trip the incoming circuit breaker if the voltage exceeds or falls below the set
limits for a specified duration. This mechanism ensures the stability of the backup power
supply and prevents damage to substation equipment caused by voltage fluctuations.
By providing these critical components and safety mechanisms, the diesel generator system
effectively supports the essential operations of the substation during power outages,
ensuring a reliable and stable backup power source.

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5. Low Voltage Bus Coupler

We have reviewed the auxiliary supply incoming feeder and the diesel generator incoming
panel. The auxiliary supply incoming panel connects to the normal load bus, while the diesel
generator incoming panel connects to the essential load bus. Refer to Figure 6, which shows
that these two buses can be linked through the bus coupler.

When the bus coupler closes, it connects the normal load bus to the essential load bus.

The bus coupler, designated as Q03, is rated at 1000 amps, matching the rating of the
auxiliary supply incoming feeder circuit breaker. Q03 is a motor-operated circuit breaker, as
indicated by the encircled letter M. Interlocking mechanisms are in place among the three
circuit breakers: Q01 (auxiliary supply incoming feeder), Q02 (diesel generator incoming
panel), and Q03 (bus coupler).

This interlocking ensures that not all circuit breakers can be switched on simultaneously,
preventing potential power conflicts or overloads.

This interlocking mechanism is crucial for maintaining the reliability and safety of the
substation’s power supply. It prevents situations where both the auxiliary supply and the

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diesel generator supply could feed the same bus simultaneously, which could lead to
overloading and potential system damage.
This setup ensures that if the auxiliary supply fails, the diesel generator can seamlessly take
over the load without risking damage to the substation infrastructure.

Figure 6 – The interlocking between Q01, Q02, & Q03, along with the Bus Coupler, is
depicted by dotted lines (click to zoom)

Figure 6 – The interlocking between Q01, Q02, & Q03, along with the Bus Coupler, is depicted by dotted
lines

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6. Interlocking at the Low Voltage substation auto transfer scheme

In the substation AC scheme, there are three main circuit breakers:

Q01: Auxiliary supply incoming feeder

Q02: Diesel generator supply incoming panel
Q03: Bus coupler panel

These components create a system where two separate AC power supplies are available on
two different buses at the AC panel.

6.1 AC Power Supply Options

One option is to run the generator in parallel with the auxiliary supply. This setup ensures
that if the auxiliary supply fails, the generator can seamlessly provide power without
interruption. However, this method is costly and requires a synchronizing panel at the
generator set.

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Additionally, continuously running the generator leads to high operation and maintenance
costs.

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6.2 Adopted Scheme for Backup Power

In this substation, an alternative scheme is adopted. The generator is only switched on if the
auxiliary supply fails, ensuring that both supplies are never connected simultaneously. This is
crucial because the generator lacks a synchronizing panel.

Connecting both supplies at the same time would result in two unsynchronized sources
being connected, which could lead to a situation similar to a short circuit, causing heavy
current flow and potential system damage.
The substation is equipped with DC batteries that can provide the necessary power for
control and protection, allowing for a brief interruption.

Suggested Course – Power Engineering Course: Relay Control and Protection For
LV/MV/HV Switchgear

Power Engineering Course: Relay Control and Protection For LV/MV/HV Switchgear

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6.3 Interlocking Mechanism

When designing a protection interlocking scheme, the first step is to create a logic table or
logic gates indicating the interlock requirements of the equipment. Refer to Figure 5, which
shows Q01, Q02, and Q03 connected with dotted lines. These dotted lines indicate that the
circuit breakers are connected through interlocks, ensuring that the operation of these
breakers is coordinated.

Refer to Figure 5, which illustrates the interlock logic for the auto transfer scheme. Here, “I”
indicates the closed status and “O” indicates the open status of the circuit breaker.

This logic table ensures that the correct sequence of operations is followed, preventing
both the auxiliary supply and the generator from being connected simultaneously.

Figure 5 – Logic Table for Interlocking Circuit Breakers in the AC Supply Panel (click to
zoom)

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 Figure 5 – Logic Table for Interlocking Circuit Breakers in the AC Supply Panel

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6.4 Importance of Interlocking

The interlocking mechanism is vital for maintaining the reliability and safety of the
substation’s power supply. It prevents scenarios where both the auxiliary supply and the
diesel generator could feed the same bus at the same time, which would otherwise lead to
synchronization issues and potential system damage.

By adopting this scheme, the substation can ensure a reliable backup power supply with
minimal operational costs, while also protecting the system from unsynchronized power
sources.

If auxiliary supply circuit breaker Q01, is in close position (indicated with letter “I“), then
buscoupler Q03 will also be closed and the diesel generator circuit breaker will be in the
closed position and that means that when auxiliary supply is available at the substation then
couple will be closed and all the power supply at the substaion is provided by the Q01 feeder
and the generator circuit breaker Q02 has to remain in open position. Hence, Q01 is
supplying power to both normal load and essential load buses.
In the second row of the interlock table, the condition here is that if auxiliary supply is shutoff
or not available the Q01 has to be tripped and the coupler Q03 as well. After suitable time
delay Q02 is switched on and that supply power to the essential bus only.

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Further Study – Learn how to interpret interlocking schemes between MV cubicles (single
line and wiring diagrams)

Learn how to interpret interlocking schemes between MV cubicles (single line and
wiring diagrams)

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7. Auto Transformer Scheme Operations

So far, we’ve examined the single line diagram, incoming and outgoing feeders, bus coupler,
and the interlock table. Now, let’s delve into the operational philosophy of the auto transfer
scheme of the AC panel.

Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 6 below, you’ll notice the option for automatic transfer
scheme or manual operation. The SA1 selector switch offers three options: A (auto), O
(off), and M (manual).

Figure 6 – Position of SA1 selector switch which offers auto, off, and manual operational
mode

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 Figure 6 – Position of SA1 selector switch which offers three options: A (auto), O (off), and M (manual)

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7.1 Automatic Operation

When the selector switch is set to A for automatic operation, as soon as power supply or
voltages are detected at the auxiliary supply feeder (energizing the cable side), the voltage
relay at circuit breaker Q01 senses the voltages and automatically closes, energizing the
normal load bus. Subsequently, after a suitable time delay (usually 1 second), the bus
coupler Q03 also closes, energizing the essential bus.

This ensures that power is supplied to both buses and the complete substation.

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In the event of an interruption in the auxiliary supply feeder (no voltages at Q01), Q01 will
trip due to undervoltage condition. Simultaneously, the bus coupler circuit breaker Q03
will also trip, resulting in no circuit breaker being closed and the substation losing power.
When there’s no supply at the AC panel from the auxiliary feeder, the timer at the generator
will initiate, and after a preset time delay, the generator will start. Once voltages are available
at Q02, circuit breaker Q02 will close, supplying power to the essential bus.

Notably, the bus coupler Q03 will remain open when power is supplied through the generator
feeder.

Further Study – Automatic transfer switch between three power sources (analysis of
schemes)

Automatic transfer switch between three power sources (analysis of schemes)

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7.2 Manual Operation

Selecting the Manual operation through selector switch SA1 eliminates automatic open or
close operations. In this mode, all operations must be performed manually by the operator.
The operator is responsible for closing Q01 when the auxiliary transformer is energized and
subsequently closing bus coupler Q03. If power supply fails, incomer Q01 will trip again.

However, in this scenario, there will be no automatic operation of Q02, meaning the
generator feeder will not be switched on.

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7.3 Off Operation Selection

When the selector switch SA1 is set to position “O”, it triggers an automatic action wherein all
circuit breakers associated with the system are swiftly transitioned to the off position.
This functionality serves a dual purpose within the operational framework of the substation.

Firstly, the switch acts as a reset mechanism for the circuit breakers, ensuring that they are
uniformly returned to the off position. This reset is essential particularly when transitioning
between automatic and manual modes of operation. By initiating this reset, the system is
primed for manual intervention or automatic control as per the operational requirements.

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Secondly, and perhaps more critically, the SA1 switch doubles as an emergency off
button. In situations where it becomes imperative to swiftly cut off the power supply within
the substation, such as during emergencies or critical maintenance procedures, activating
this switch provides an immediate and decisive action.
By promptly de-energizing the circuit breakers, the switch helps mitigate potential risks
and ensures the safety of personnel and equipment within the substation.

Suggested Reading – Mastering GIS control circuits: AC/DC auxiliary circuits and circuit
breaker closing circuit

Mastering GIS control circuits: AC/DC auxiliary circuits and circuit breaker closing
circuit

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7. BONUS: Complete Schematic Diagram of 415V AC Auxiliary

Supply Panel (PDF)
Download Complete Schematic Diagram of 415V AC Auxiliary Supply Panel (PDF, 36 pages,
3.5 MB) (for premium members only):
Download (PDF, 3.5 MB)

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