Ormazabal participates in a research project: Real-time simulation in the Smart Grid Lab

How does the power grid handle voltage fluctuations from solar or wind power? How does it behave when a large number of electric cars are charging simultaneously? In the new Smart Grid Technology Lab at IE³, the Institute for Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency and Economics at the Technical University of Dortmund, various grid situations are realistically simulated to answer questions like these. Converting medium voltage to low voltage in a controlled test environment required a special transformer that would compensate for unacceptable voltage fluctuations, operating fully automatically and following a predetermined control algorithm. Ormazabal has supplied a smart transformer with on-load tap changers (OLTC), whose control system has been specially designed for the specific needs of the laboratory.

«The enclosed switchgear and the safety concept implemented by Ormazabal guarantee the reliable operation of the system» confirms Dr. Jonas Maasmann, head of the IE³ research group. – «Ormazabal provided fantastic support to the Technical University of Dortmund in the development of the Smart Grid Technology Lab. In this collaboration, Ormazabal saw itself not just as a simple supplier, but proactively contributed its expertise to the creation of the system.”

Voltage regulated distribution transformer (VRDT) – with gae630   Product features: Voltage regulation Distribution Transformer Electronic data: Input side 10 kV/10 kV, output side 10 kV/0.4 kV Scope of supply: Switchgear 10kV gae630 MT Transformers controllable transforma.smart

Ormazabal solution and challenge:

The voltage-regulated distribution transformer combines intelligent control with the on-load tap changer (OLTC) developed by Ormazabal, which adapts the voltage even under load. To adjust the VRDT controls using certain protocols, it was necessary to modify the control algorithm. In this regard, Ormazabal has drawn on the experience gained from its own smart grid laboratory located near its headquarters in Spain. Testing can now be carried out remotely from the Smart Grid Technology Lab control room using Ormazabal GAE630 switchgear.

Main benefits for the customer:

• Customized production specific to the project.
• Automatic voltage equalization, even under load.
• Can be used with remote control.