A Scalable Automation System for the Auxiliary and DC Power Supply Switchgear of Power Plants and Substations

Abstract

The principles of implementing a scalable microprocessor system for automation of auxiliary and d.c. power supply switchgear at power plants and substations are described taking as an example the demonstration model of the cabinet with self-contained switchgears for shutoff and control valves (of the KRUZA P type). The computerized subsystem constructed on the basis of a communication programmable logic controller is described. The controller serves for supporting digital data exchange according to the standard protocols used in the electric power industry (Modbus, IEC 61850, and IEC 60870-101/104). The field-level digital networks transmit data exchanged with distributed signal input/output modules and panel-mounted instruments. The upper-level network transmits these data to the process instrumentation and control system (process I&C). Approaches to elaborating application software that allows scalable automation system configurations to be developed are considered. Embodiment versions in the form of a self-contained automation system, process I&C subsystem, or a remote-control subsystem are given. The use of standard modules in cabinet designs and in control algorithms helps enhance the reliability in designing production process control systems.