Module overview
This module introduces students to fundamental issues in the design and operation of electricity transmission and distribution networks. There is a particular focus on understanding how to specify equipment, including through the use of power flow modelling tools such as ERACS and PowerWorld. The course is primarily designed for MSc Energy & Sustainability w/EPE students, but is available for MEng students as an option on the proviso that ELEC3213 has not been taken previously.
The module is assessed 50% by courseworks and 50% by exam. Throughout the assessment there is an emphasis on the provision of engineering justification for design decisions, using the results obtained from simulations and calculations. These are key transferrable skills which will be valuable throughout your career.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Demonstrate awareness of the drivers of change in how networks are designed and operated
- Design protection schemes for common distribution network scenarios
- Describe the principle of operation of transmission and distribution equipment
Disciplinary Specific Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Use commercial software for power systems analysis
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Explain principles of operation of protection systems and design simple protection systems for transmission lines and transformers.
- Solve typical problems associated with load flow, formulate admittance matrices and perform nodal analysis
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Utilise the results of engineering calculations to justify design approaches
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Know and appreciate the key factors in equipment specification and network design
- Identify major components of power transmission and distribution systems and substations
Syllabus
Transmission and distribution (T&D) network design
- Overview of common network structures
- Position and function of key components
Load flows
- Simple radial and ring feeder load flow calculations
- Interconnected system load flow by nodal analysis
- Interactive solution of nodal admittance matrix by Gauss Siedel method
Cables & Overhead Lines
- Key design principles
- Ratings & limitations
- Accessories
- Economics
Distribution substation/network design
- Radial and Ring configurations
- Power flow analysis
- Substation equipment layout
- Remote monitoring & operation
- Asset ratings
Protection Schemes
- Switchgear & breakers
- Fuse protection
- Overcurrent protection
- Directional protection
- Distance protection
- Differential protection
Distribution reliability
- Faults
- Automation of Protection
- Post fault restoration
New trends in T&D
- Impact of automation
- Condition Monitoring
- Future challenges
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The theory is covered through a range of lecture activities, along with drop in sessions to provide assistance with the coursework elements.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Follow-up work | 12 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 12 |
| Completion of assessment task | 42 |
| Wider reading or practice | 50 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Gers & Holmes (2011). Protection of Electricity Distribution Networks. IET.
Turan Gonen. Electric Power Distribution System Engineering.
Turan Gonen. Electric Power Transmission System Engineering: Analysis & Design.
Glover, Sarma and Overbye. Power System Analysis and Design.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Final Assessment | 50% |
| Continuous Assessment | 50% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Set Task | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External