Situated between two busy highways, a utility station covers an area of 58 feet by 28 feet. At the center of this station is a 230/138/12 kV autotransformer, flanked by advanced Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) equipment on either side. This setup ensures compact and efficient power distribution for a bustling entertainment district in a metropolitan area.
In 2009, CSSI and the utility company installed a 41-foot by 28-foot Intelli-Firewall™ system to safeguard the autotransformer. The firewall system consists of two freestanding walls, one on each side of the autotransformer, with the GIS equipment located on the opposite side. This design provides containment in the event of an autotransformer fire while protecting the GIS equipment from potential damage.
In May 2011, a fire broke out at the substation during the night, posing a significant threat to critical infrastructure and risking power outages in the service area. Thanks to the quick containment provided by the Intelli-Firewall, the blaze was confined to a limited area, effectively preventing damage to the GIS equipment. Following the incident, repair efforts were promptly initiated, and the substation was fully restored and back in operation within four months, minimizing disruptions and ensuring continued service reliability.
Photos and information from Smith, Gordon. “Transformer Fire Isolated”, Transmission & Distribution World. February 2012, pp 50-53.
