Program 6

Software applications in this program may have been updated in the subsequent program. Please check here to see complete list of enhancements:

Engineering Analysis Software

Project 1 - Elbow Switching Performance Tests

Develop a testing procedure to quantify acceptable performance when disconnecting "unloaded" separable connectors. Specifically, the proposed performance test was to address the propensity of energized (but unloaded) elbow connectors to occasionally flashover when being disconnected. Testing was conducted at vendor high-voltage labs, with test procedures and flashover performance observed by both DSTAR and vendor representatives. The objective was to demonstrate and quantify elbow flashover behavior with a test procedure that is acceptable to both vendors and users. The performance test procedure which was to be developed was to be ultimately proposed for adoption into ANSI standard 386. Despite extensive effort, however, this project was not successful in finding a realistic and practical means to accelerate flashovers to the degree necessary for meaningful evaluation of elbow performance.

Tagged: P1-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis

Project 2 - Distribution Transformer Load Demand Algorithm

Develop an algorithm by which peak summer distribution transformer kVA demand of existing loads can be predicted based on monthly kWh usage patterns, climatological data, and customer demographics. The expected application of this algorithm is identifying excessively overloaded transformers for replacement, and to determine if an existing transformer has available capacity to serve a new load.

Tagged: P2-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis

Project 4a - Distribution Transformer Owning Cost Software Enhancements, Phase A

Enhance the D-TOCS (DSTAR Transformer Owning Cost Software) program to obtain enhanced user functionality. Included are new data management features, import and export of data, new analysis features, and a context-sensitive help function. Investigate application of D-TOCS for transformer inventory optimization and transformer purchase budget optimization.

Tagged: P4a-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis

Project 4b - Distribution Transformer Owning Cost Software Enhancements, Phase B

Validate the thermal and loss of life algorithms of TOCS by comparing with other calculations. Enhance the D-TOCS (DSTAR Transformer Owning Cost Software) program to accelerate calculations and to implement a batch operating mode for analysis of multiple transformer designs. Develop software for automatic optimization of stocked transformer ratings, and optimized transformer procurement selection within budget constraints.

Tagged: P4b-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis

Project 5 - Unbalanced Transformer Bank Software

Create a convenient Windows-based tool for calculating voltage imbalance and transformer loading when unbalanced transformer banks are used, or unbalanced loads are applied to a balanced bank.. Included are both inherently unbalanced bank connections (e.g., open-delta) and the application of transformers with dissimilar impedances in normally balanced banks (e.g., wye-wye).

Tagged: P5-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis

Project 6 - Cable Electrical Parameters Software

Create a convenient Windows-based tool for calculating the electrical parameters of distribution cables as a function of the physical characteristics of the individual cables and the manner of cable installation (i.e., duct spacing, cable lay, etc.) Included are concentric, drain wire, tape shield, and longitudinally corrugated neutral cables, with and without separate neutral wires. Parameters include the cable impedances in both phase and symmetrical component form, charging current, losses, dielectric stress, etc.

Tagged: P6-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis

Project 7 - Cable Ampacity Derating

Investigate the thermal impact of external heat sources on cable for the following types of situations where longitudinal heat transfer along the cable or along the conduit may significantly affect ampacity: cable in parallel with another cable for a limited longitudinal extent, cables crossing other cables (perpendicularly or obliquely), or cable taps in and out of transformers and switchgear.

Tagged: P7-6, P6, Equipment Testing/Evaluation, Engineering Guidelines, Engineering Analysis Software, Economic Analysis