POWER SUBSTATIONS

Inflammable materials

Energized electrical cables with combustible insulation and jacketing can be a major hazard because they are a combination of fuel supply and ignition source. A cable failure can result in sufficient heat to ignite the cable insulation, which can continue to burn, producing high heat and large quantities of toxic smoke.

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From inflammable materials to damaged structures

Oil as a significant fuel supply can be ignited by an electrical failure within the mineral-oil-insulated equipment such as transformers, reactors and circuit breakers. This oil-spill fire hazard can spread to form a large pool of fire. With thermal radiation and convective heating from the fire, all surrounding structures will be seriously damaged. 

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The impacts can be catastrophic

The power substation's functions are critical for the proper operation of the power system. Fires in substations, therefore, can severely impact the supply of power to customers and the utility company’s revenue and assets. These fires can also create a fire hazard to utility personnel, emergency personnel and the general public.