People often take for granted the utility that an electric grid can provide. After all, without access to electricity, people would not be able to power their homes or run their businesses.
It’s not uncommon to be unfamiliar with what an electrical substation is, but it’s an important component to understand. So, what is a substation? Let’s explore everything you should know about it.
What Is a Substation?
A substation is an interface between parts of the distribution grid and transmission systems. A substation provides three important functions: voltage conversion, the transformation of configurations, and filtering.
One set of incoming lines enters or feeds into a substation at high voltages (115-765 kV). Transformers inside the substation lower the voltage to lower levels (115-24 kV) before the lines exit or leave.
Each of these outgoing lines can be carrying different voltages, which allow for more efficient electrical grid operation and easier maintenance.
As power enters a large city, it is necessary to have fewer substations to handle the load.
How Does a Substation Work?
Substations are large electrical facilities that connect the transmission grid with a distribution grid. For example, a substation can connect a power plant supplying high-voltage electricity to household appliances via lower voltage lines.
Substations have a two-way flow of electric current and help control voltage throughout an electrical grid system.
What Does a Substation Look Like?
Substations come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with most looking similar to a large warehouse. Inside a substation, there are electrical components that receive incoming lines from power grids. These also lower the voltage levels of incoming lines so they can be used by customers.
Finally, electrical substation components process outgoing lines from the facility and switch the lines so they can be routed to their final destination.
What Are the Most Common Substation Usages?
The bulk of electrical infrastructure in developed countries is underground. However, the exact amount varies by location. It’s possible for a city or community to have multiple substations that are dispersed throughout it, with each carrying out different functions.
Some of the most common substation usages are:
- Voltage conversion
- Protection
- Switching and routing
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Why Do We Need to Know About Substations?
The main reason that people should be familiar with substations is that they facilitate the power grid. Without an electric grid, it would be much more difficult for people to power their homes and run their businesses.
Put simply, they are integral to society.
Substations Are Essential
Without them, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy the access to electricity that we do today. So, be sure that you keep the above answer to “what is a substation” in mind. These components are an important part of society’s infrastructure and cannot be overlooked.
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