Substation Ground Grid Design Using FEM Analysis

Abraham Akhikpemelo; Nsikak Robson Eyibo

doi:10.37121/jase.v10i1.201

Abraham Akhikpemelo Maritime Academy of Nigeria https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7973-372X
Eyibo, Nsikak Robson Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Nigeria.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37121/jase.v10i1.201

Keywords: ETAP, Finite element method, Ground potential rise, Step voltage, Substation earthing system, Touch voltage

Abstract

A reliable substation earthing system is critical for power system stability and safety. This study presents the design and analysis of an electrical substation grounding system using the Finite Element Method (FEM) to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. The design methodology, based on IEEE standards, was implemented using ETAP 16.0 software, considering a substation with a maximum expected short-circuit current of 40 kA. A two-layer soil model was used, and a square ground grid configuration (100 m x 100 m) was analyzed with and without vertical ground rods. The results demonstrate that while the overall ground resistance values were similar for both configurations (0.435 Ω with rods, 0.433 Ω without), the design with ground rods successfully maintained the calculated touch voltage (2391.4 V) below the tolerable limit (2832.5 V). Conversely, the design without ground rods was deemed unsafe, as the touch voltage (3876.3 V) exceeded the safety threshold. The findings confirm that FEM analysis is a reliable and effective tool for a detailed and realistic assessment of substation grounding systems, providing a flexible framework for designing grids that account for both present safety requirements and future system upgrades.

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Author Biography

Eyibo, Nsikak Robson, Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Nigeria.

Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering

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