Power distribution substation
An improved power distribution unit substation, having a plurality of differing voltage rated main breaker cells, encased within a single housing is disclosed. The improved power distribution substation saves considerable floor space as compared to prior art substations. One embodiment houses a plurality of main breaker cells in a single housing. In this embodiment, a low voltage main breaker cell is vertically positioned above a plurality of medium voltage main breaker cells. Alternatively, a medium voltage main breaker cell is vertically positioned above a plurality of low or medium voltage cells. Improved single-ended and double-ended power distribution substations are disclosed that offer cost and floor space savings as compared to prior art substations.
1. An improved power distribution substation apparatus, for use in an electrical power distribution network, including a plurality of switchgear main breaker cells, comprising:
a) an upper encasement, enclosing a first voltage main breaker cell and associated instrument compartment, wherein the upper encasement encloses electrical components associated with the first voltage main breaker cell, and wherein the first voltage main breaker cell distributes a first voltage;
b) a lower encasement, vertically positioned below the upper encasement, wherein the lower encasement encloses a second voltage main breaker cell and associated instrument compartment, wherein the lower encasement encloses electrical components associated with the second voltage main breaker cell, and wherein the second voltage main breaker cell distributes a second voltage that differs from the first voltage;
c) a voltage transformer, coupled to the second voltage main breaker cell;
d) an isolating baffler positioned between the upper encasement and the lower encasement, and;
e) wherein the first and second voltages exceed 100 Volts, wherein the first voltage main breaker cell comprises a medium voltage main breaker cell coupling a medium voltage to the substation transfoimer, and wherein the second voltage main breaker cell comprises a low voltage main breaker cell distributing a low voltage, and wherein the medium voltage is greater than the low voltage.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the low voltage has a maximum value of approximately 600 volts or less.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the medium voltage has a minimum value of approximately 980 volts.