Learning outcomes:
• Learn about basic operating principles, different interrupting technologies, application and categorisation of switchgear apparatus and why the technology moves to SF6;
• Understand the application and operation of modern HV installations: AIS, Compact AIS, GIS, HIS and PASS;
• Understand MV switchgear classification, selection and learn about latest in AIS and GIS for medium voltage;
• Identify typical problems encountered in the field and means of extending the life of HV & MV switchgear.
• Become familiar with technical, organisational and operational aspects, safety considerations, scheduling and concept of predictive maintenance in establishing an effective switchgear maintenance program;
• Discuss guidelines for HV switchgear maintenance, general management procedures for MV switchgear maintenance and testing procedures for various types of HV&MV Circuit Breakers in an interactive workshop environment.

Who should attend?
This course is suggested for all technical personnel involved with operation, inspection and/or maintenance of switchgear installations; in particular for all engineers, supervisors and managers who work in transmission, distribution, maintenance and operation of utilities, industrial and commercial distribution systems.

Course Synopsis:
Even with the increased demand for supply, it is a reality that service standards must increase while the price must drop. The reliability and quality of energy supply are becoming a determining factor of success of any energy supply utility. The shortage of space and increased environmental concerns have put pressure on utilities to seek safer, more compact and more aesthetically pleasing solutions for power supply in urban environments. The advancement in switchgear technology gives competitive edge to those who understand how to use it.

This course brings you up to date with the latest technology in HV and MV switchgear equipment and installations and provides practical guidance for their life extension.

Course Content

Day 1
Basic operating principles, application and categorisation of switchgear apparatus
• Classification of switching devices
• Arc quenching principles for air, oil, vacuum and SF6 insulation mediums
• Circuit breakers
• Disconnectors
• Earthing Switches
• Vacuum Contactors
• Instrument transformers (CT, VT, CVT)
• Surge Arresters
Move to SF6
• Comparison of various interrupting technologies
• Vacuum or SF6
• Versatility SF6
• SF6 as insulation medium

Day 2
Operation of modern HV switchgear installations and their assemblies
• Solutions for AIS at 123-170 kV; 245-362 kV; 420-525 kV
• Modular concept and advantages of Compact AIS
• Application and advantages of GIS and HIS switchgear
• PASS - "plug and switch" solution for renewal or expansion of outlived or outgrown AIS substations
MV switchgear installations for primary distribution
• Switchgear classification and selection criteria for MV switchgear for primary distribution
• Metal-enclosed air-insulated switchgear for medium voltage
• Metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear for medium voltage

Day 3
System Analysis
• First step in establishing a good maintenance plan
• System studies that are required to understand system parameters under normal and faulted conditions
Life extension of HV and MV switchgear equipment
• Typical problems and field enemies
• Underlying causes of any failure and means of eradicating them
• Corona and its manifestations
• Tracking phenomenon and how to cease it
• Use of infrared thermography and ultraviolet imaging
Aspects of an effective MV switchgear maintenance program
• Organisational, Operational and Technical aspects and Safety considerations
• Scheduling and concept of Preventative Maintenance

Workshop
• Guidelines for HV switchgear maintenance
• General maintenance procedures for MV switchgear
• HV&MV circuit breaker maintenance
• Typical problems discussed in a workshop environment.

Course Trainer:
Aleksandar Milin
MSc (Hon) Electrical Engineer
Member of IET (UK) and IEEE(US)
Power Engineering Consultant
Managing Director – MATREX

TRANSFORMER OPERATION & MAINTENANCE SAIEE-0166-V
HV & MV SWITCHGEAR APPLICATION & MAINTENANCE SAIEE-0179-V
EARTHING & LIGHTNING PROTECTION FOR HV INSTALLATIONS SAIEE-0181-V
TRANSFORMER DESIGN, INSTALLATION & PROCUREMENT
TRANSFORMER TESTING