Comprehensive guide to containerised substations
1. Definition & Purpose
A containerized substation is a pre-fabricated, modular power distribution system housed in a standardized shipping container (typically 20ft or 40ft). It integrates:
HV/MV Switchgear
Transformer (Dry-type or Oil-filled)
LV Distribution Panel
Protection & Control Systems
Cooling & Auxiliary Systems
Key Advantages:
✔ Plug-and-play installation (70% faster deployment)
✔ Weatherproof & vandal-resistant (IP54 or higher)
✔ Mobility – Relocatable for temporary power needs
✔ Compact footprint (50-70% space savings vs. conventional)
2. Typical Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Transformer | Steps down voltage (e.g., 33kV → 11kV) |
| RMU (Ring Main Unit) | Medium-voltage switching/protection |
| LV Switchboard | Breakers, meters, capacitor banks |
| SCADA & Relays | Remote monitoring/protection |
| HV/LV Cabling | Pre-terminated connections |
| Earthing System | Integrated grounding grid |
| Fire Suppression | Automatic gas-based system |
| HVAC | Temperature control (critical for dry-type transformers) |
3. Design Configurations
A) Single-Container Design
Transformer + switchgear in one container
Max capacity: ~10 MVA (due to space/heat constraints)
B) Multi-Container Design
Container 1: HV/MV switchgear
Container 2: Transformer
Container 3: LV distribution & controls
Used for >10 MVA substations
C) Mobile Substations
Mounted on trailers for emergency power
Common in mining, disaster recovery
4. Key Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Voltage Level | 11kV – 132kV |
| Transformer Rating | 500kVA – 20MVA |
| Cooling System | AN/AF (Oil) or forced-air (Dry-type) |
| Ambient Temp Range | -40°C to +50°C |
| Protection Class | IP54 (standard), IP65 (harsh environments) |
| Delivery Time | 8-12 weeks (vs. 6-12 months for conventional) |
5. Testing & Commissioning
Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT):
Power transformer tests (TTR, insulation resistance, DGA)
Switchgear tests (contact resistance, timing, Hi-pot)
Protection relay calibration
SCADA communication checks
On-Site Commissioning:
✔ Foundation/leveling verification
✔ Cable termination checks
✔ Final insulation resistance tests
✔ Load testing (phased energization)
6. Applications
Renewable Energy (Solar/Wind farms)
Industrial Plants (Mining, Oil & Gas)
Urban Grids (Space-constrained areas)
Emergency Power (Disaster recovery)
Military Bases (Rapid deployment)
7. Standards & Certifications
IEC 62271-202 (Prefabricated substations)
IEEE C57.12.90 (Transformer testing)
ISO 1496 (Container structural integrity)
Local Grid Codes (e.g., EN 61439, ANSI C37)
8. Leading Manufacturers
Siemens (Sivacon S8)
ABB (Plug & Play system)
GE (Grid Solutions)
TGOOD (China-based global supplier)
Comparison: Containerized vs. Conventional Substation
| Factor | Containerized | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Time | 1-2 weeks | 3-6 months |
| Cost | 10-20% higher upfront | Lower capital cost |
| Flexibility | Relocatable | Fixed location |
| Space Needed | 20-40ft container footprint | 2-5x larger area |
| Maintenance | Simplified (modular design) | More complex |
Future Trends
Digital Twin Integration – Real-time monitoring via IoT
Eco-friendly Designs – SF6-free switchgear, biodegradable oils
Hybrid Systems – Integrated battery storage
The above content is published by demiks, please specify, demiks is a substation equipment manufacturer, specializing in the production of high-voltage tester, transformer tester, circuit breaker test equipment, relay tester, SF6 gas analyser, cable fault tester and other products, if you have power test testing needs, please feel free to contact demiks power science and technology limited company or send an email! Give us: contact@demikspower.com
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