The energy transition is demanding great efforts on all sides. The distribution grids are not yet capable of optimally controlling the energy flows. The first step is to convert the secondary substations. However, a large number of players are involved in modernising the distribution grid. The expertise those manufacturing components, enclosures, and switchgear is needed to produce the smart distribution stations alone. Rittal, Wago and H. Westermann have joined forces to produce complete systems for a smarter grid – in standard and in large quantities.
Overview
- Project
- Wago/H. Westermann
- Location
- Minden, Germany
- Branch
- Energy
- Challenge
Today’s distribution grids are not equipped for the fluctuating supply and withdrawal of energy
To upgrade secondary substations, ready-to-install systems must be supplied in large quantities and be available over the long term
Interaction between the manufacturers of enclosures, components and switchgear is called for
- Solution
The high-volume production of ready-to-install systems at H. Westermann with pre-assembled AX compact enclosures from Rittal and WAGO components. Together, they can deliver a system that meets the high requirements of the energy utilities.
The energy transition is taking place in distribution substations.
The increase in renewable energy sources and the growing energy requirements of electric vehicles and heat pumps are increasing the pressure on local grid operators to modernise their distribution grids. They still have no overview of how much their grids are being utilised and of the characteristics of the energy flows. Today’s grids are “blind” and unable to react adequately to fluctuating and decentralised supplies and withdrawals.
However, modernising conventional transformer stations with the help of smart technology is a prerequisite for avoiding harmful voltage fluctuations and managing energy flows intelligently.
600,000 secondary substations in a fell swoop
Experienced players such as WAGO, H. Westermann and Rittal are needed to quickly and efficiently upgrade the 600,000 distribution transformers in use throughout Germany. Rittal is supplying H. Westermann with its AX compact enclosures in dimensions of 400 x 800 x 300 mm. Switchgear manufacturer H. Westermann is responsible for the engineering and production of the switchgear. It mounts the finished mounting plate in the AX compact enclosure. This can be done quickly, as Rittal has already carried out all the necessary milling and drilling.
WAGO provides the components on the mounting plate. The measuring terminals from the world market leader in spring-clamp technology collect all the information on the status of the transformer: the voltage, the voltage outputs, position signals and temperatures. The telecontroller transmits the values to the control centre via the IEC 60870-5-104 telecontrol protocol. The client’s network is therefore no longer blind.
The three companies can also supply the system in larger quantities over the long term. The grid operators usually have this contractually guaranteed. Standardisation, reliable on-time delivery and long-term availability are essential for the safe conversion of distribution grids, which is not a problem for Rittal and its partners. The manufacturer knows this too, which is why it has included the AX compact enclosure in its specifications
A first step has now been taken towards modernising the grids, thanks to the successful collaboration between WAGO, H. Westermann and Rittal.