July 2012 Project: Image 1
July 2012 Project: Image 2

JULY 16, 2012

TIE BREAKER SYNCHRONIZATION CONTROL SYSTEM - SIEMENS ENERGY / AUSTRALIA

Northwest Electrical Services LLC together with Siemens Energy, was contracted to design, fabricate, and test a Tiebreaker synchronization system for a major client in Australia.

The project consisted of three synchronization panels, with the requirements to utilize Woodward Master Synchronizing and Load Control units (MSLCs) and interface with generator Digital Synchronizing and Load Control units (DSLCs). The system required coordination and communication between 8 MSLCs in a challenging scheme not before utilized in an MSLC configuration.

While the client specification for the project specified various operational and international code requirements, Northwest Electrical Services LLC proposed and ultimately provided an innovative flexible solution incorporating PLC control and touch screen HMIs, allowing for future expansion and changes to operational requirements.

Our solution provided the following:

  • Design and construction of three synchronizing panels CE listed, with complete operating description, documentation and factory acceptance testing
  • Provided a fault-tolerant redundant industrial Ethernet communication between devices, utilizing CISCO IE3000 industrial Ethernet switches and associated network configuration. Including a fault-tolerant redundant link between two of the panels separated by 35 KM distance
  • Allen Bradley PLCs with interface using both MODBUS TCP/IP and CIP protocols for communication with both MSLCs, DSLCs, and HMIs
  • HMI operator interface making use of Wonderware's Operator Interface Computer (OIC) using Intouch version 10
  • Breaker Control Switches, Synchronizing Scopes, all panel hardware as per international codes complying with both Low Voltage and EMC directives
  • Configuration and programming of all devices, MSLCs, PLCs, Wonderware complete with full back up and rapid restore capability locally and remotely
  • Automatic, manual and dead bus modes of operation
  • Ability to expand the system to include telemetry from generators and communication with generator controls
  • Ability to remotely collect data into SCADA or other systems for further data acquisition and analysis

The system was completed, factory tested and shipped to the client in Q2 2012.