SERVICES
Design / Network Studies
Design / Network Studies relating to network expansion, new works or upgrade / refurbishment of existing electrical networks, etc.
Powercrest Director, Patrick Arendse is a highly experienced, independent Power System Engineering Consultant focused on providing optimal technical solutions for clients that are compliant, on time and within budget.
Powercrest has provided power system engineering consulting services to clients in a variety of industries; including the mining industry, power generation and power distribution utilities, light and heavy industries, oil and gas industries, commercial enterprises – as well as other consultants who need assistance or additional capacity.
Our services
Power System Modelling
Network modelling in PowerTools for Windows (PTW) or ETAP for the purpose of network analysis.
In particular, Powercrest specialises in the modelling of transmission lines (R, X, B) from tower configurations and conductor specifications, three-winding transformers, autotransformers, zero sequence modelling of cables, mutual coupling, etc.
Loadflow Studies
Powercrest perform steady state loadflow studies so as to determine, amongst others:
- the voltage profile of the network,
- identify any nodes/buses where the steady state voltage is outside certain limits,
- identify components loaded beyond their specified ratings, etc.
We can also determine the voltage profile for a motor starting scenario.
Adjusting the taps of OLTC transformers.
Fault Studies
This is the most important study required to ensure a system does not self-destruct! Two types of fault studies performed by Powercrest include:
- IEC 60909 to determine Ik”, Ib, Ip and Ik at the point of fault – used for equipment sizing or to verify compliance between equipment ratings and fault duties.
- PTW’s Comprehensive module – used for grading purposes.
Arc Flash Studies
These studies are performed to the latest IEEE 1584 standard.
Arc Flash Studies are always preceded by a protection co-ordination study as arc flash incident energies (IE) are dependant on protection trip times.
Powercrest specialises in the fine-tuning of protection settings so as to minimise arc flash IE, and in particular the compromise between speed of protection operation and loss of selectivity so as to minimise IE’s.
Protection Settings Studies
Protection settings studies involves the grading of overcurrent devices for phase and earth faults based on inverse, as well as definite time philosophies.
We will check distance relay settings.
This study also includes differential protection applications as applied to transformers, cables, transmission lines, NER’s, generators, motors, etc. whether biased circulating current, high impedance, current comparison or phase comparison schemes.
Powercrest can provide a one-stop service package that includes relay settings, relay test sheets and relay testing/commissioning.
Protection Design
Powercrest specialise in the design of protection systems from HV to LV. We place special emphasis on safety in design and attention to detail that minimises human error, such as close inhibit.
From a safety perspective, we strongly advocate that all TRIP/CLOSE operations of indoor switchgear be undertaken either via the SCADA system, or at an operating panel located far enough away from the switchboard to ensure no harm to the operator, should there be a switchboard failure such as an arc flash.
Fault Investigations
Where incorrect protection operation has occurred, Powercrest specialises in analysing relay (or any other IED) recordings, so as to pinpoint the cause of mal-operation and advise on remedial measures.
Harmonic Studies
Harmonic Studies are performed to determine the degree of voltage and current distortion at critical points throughout the network.
We will look at K factor on transformer design and determine the effect of harmonic filters.
Power Factor Correction Studies
Power Factor Correction Studies check the need for pf correction. During the study we will check sizing and location of capbanks, as well as filtering and the influence on system harmonics.
Equipment Sizing (Cables, Transformers, Circuit Breakers, etc.)
This involves Transformer MVA sizing as well as determining the optimal impedance value for the application at hand.
Powercrest specialises in circuit breaker specifications for HV as well as LV applications with an emphasis on breaker ratings matching the IEC-60909 study outcomes.
We also provide Cable Sizing Studies whether for HV or LV applications.
Tech Talk Videos
The Powercrest Tech Talk videos can be viewed on this website or on our YouTube Channel.
