Protection considerations in small stand alone power systems
Explore the effectiveness of traditional overcurrent protection and neutral treatment in small inverter-based power systems.
About the event
In certain operating scenarios, small inverter-based power systems cannot supply sufficient current for long enough to actuate traditional overcurrent protection. Without care in application, a gap in electrical protection may result where an unsectionalised fault can persist whilst the electronic system attempts re-energization.
Each stand alone power system (SAPS) is unique and requires design diligence to ensure risk is as low as reasonably practical. The presentation uses examples and type test data from a recent design to illustrate some potential pitfalls in blindly following contemporary Standards and conventional grid connected application practice. We will also look at some end user questions with regard to AS/NZS3000 compliance in deviating from conventional practice.
Boundary Power is a joint venture between Ampcontrol and Horizon Power and has developed a number of stand alone power solutions as a utility grade alternative electricity supply for remote grid connected consumers. Horizon Power is the first Utility in Australia to deliberately "off-grid" consumers in remote areas, removing many kilometres of traditional poles and wires to leave consumers permanently supplied by stand alone power systems.
Australian Standards and similar guidance documents can often assist in responsible engineering design. Blindly following Standards or traditional design approaches does not discharge the designer's obligation to ensure residual risk is as low as reasonably practicable. Attendees can expect to gain insight into this principle with a non-traditional earthing arrangement and neutral treatment in a SAPS application.
About the speaker
Chief Technology Officer, Ampcontrol
Tim has been a practicing electrical engineer for over 30 years, with more than 20 years’ experience within the technology and manufacturing sectors. Tim started his career at The University of Newcastle within an Australian Research Council special research centre for control engineering. Tim joined the Ampcontrol Group in 2008, as the Operation Manager of ResTech, a member company at the University of Newcastle. Tim has been in senior leadership roles with the company, managing the portfolios of Technology, Engineering, Research & Development, and Innovation for Ampcontrol. He was appointed Chief Technology Officer for Ampcontrol in 2011. As Chief Technology Officer, Tim oversees extending Ampcontrol’s intellectual property and capability in the areas of engineering specialisation and core competency.
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