This course will present a comprehensive knowledge essential for the medium voltage and high voltage switchgear operations and walk the participants through the switchgear design process using a set of interlinked case studies. The course focuses mainly on the operation and maintenance of distribution equipment namely transformers, circuit breakers, contactors, isolators and dis connector (this will also include the auxiliary peripherals and control circuits).

Medium and high voltages switchgears are the integral component of any electrical distribution system; hence, the selection and installation of these switchgears are vital so as to provide protection and safe distribution of electrical power. The equipment needs to be operated in a safe manner securing continuity of supply to consumers.

On completion of the module, the delegates should be able to:

• Understand the role and importance of switchgears
• Determine the components and operations of medium voltage circuit breakers
• Explain the different types of maintenance and testing for switchgears
• Analyze the common faults and short circuit current
• Design and components of high voltage switchgears

• Electricians
• Electrical supervisors
• Plant electricians
• Operations & maintenance engineers, supervisors & technicians
• Maintenance technicians

MODULE 1: The Role and Importance of the Switchgear in Power Systems

1.1 Circuit breakers, auto re closers, dis connectors and sectionalized operations

1.2 Earth switches construction and applications

1.3 Switchgear symbols on single-line diagrams

1.4 Substation switchgear layouts

1.5 Types of current situation

1.6 Fault clearing process

MODULE 2: Maintenance and Testing of Switchgears

2.1 Manufacturer testing

2.2 Installation and commissioning

2.3 Documentation requirements

2.4 Importance of maintenance & testing 2.5 Maintenance strategies

2.6 Infrared testing

MODULE 3: Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) and Vacuum Circuit Breakers

3.1 Compression principles

3.2 SF6 hazards and test equipment

3.3 Dead and Live tank HV circuit breakers

3.4 Operation mechanisms of HV circuit breakers

3.5 Vacuum interrupters operation and maintenance

3.6 Automated circuit breaker monitoring

MODULE 4: Short circuit Currents and Calculations and Working Safely

4.1 Introduction to types of relay

4.2 Relay selection, basic concepts and characteristics

4.3 Types of distress and protection modes

4.4 Introduction to safety in HV Substations

4.5 Switchgear numbering and nomenclature

4.6 Switchgear mechanical and electrical interlocking

MODULE 5: HV Transformer

5.1 HV current transformers construction, operation and maintenance

5.2 HV potential transformers features and operation

5.3 Power transformer construction and operation

5.4 Buchholz relay, pressure relief device

5.5 Protective relay, conservator and breather operating principles 5.6 Maintenance of power transformers

A variety of methodologies will be used during the course that includes:

·         (30%) Based on Case Studies

·         (30%) Techniques 

·         (30%) Role Play

·         (10%) Concepts

·         Pre-test and Post-test

·         Variety of Learning Methods

·         Lectures

·         Case Studies and Self Questionaires

·         Group Work

·         Discussion

·         Presentation

To be advised as per course locations. This rate includes participant’s manual, Hand-Outs, buffet lunch, coffee/tea on arrival, morning & afternoon of each day.

Daily Course Timings:

    08:00 - 08:20       Morning Coffee / Tea

    08:20 - 10:00       First Session

    10:00 - 10:20       Coffee / Tea / Snacks

    10:20 - 12:20       Second Session

    12:20 - 13:30       Lunch Break & Prayer Break

    13:30 - 15:00       Last Session