Strategic Maintenance of 400-kV Switching Substations

This paper describes a new approach for the maintenance of high-voltage devices in switching substations that is based upon upgraded reliability-centered maintenance (RCM). In addition to periodical maintenance, the Slovenian Transmission System Operator ELES also uses an application that enables RCM. The strategic maintenance concept was developed on the basis of ongoing monitoring maintenance. It takes into consideration not only the well-known indices regarding technical conditions and importance, but also the indices for risk and environment. This new approach is demonstrated using the example of a Podlog 400-kV switching substation before and after its overhaul.

I. Introduction

Electricity transmission companies are putting a lot of effort into prolonging the lifetimes of existing substations, in a professionally efficient manner. This can be especially ensured by maintaining an adequate level of reliability and the technical availability of high-voltage (HV) equipment. The Slovenian transmission system operator (TSO) ELES, which is legally responsible for electricity transmission system operations, and the maintenance of the transmission grid, is no exception in this respect.