EVALUATING THE CONDITION OF THE SUBSTATION’S GROUNDING GRID WITH ITS RELATION TO CORROSION

Abstract

This thesis evaluates the condition of the grounding systems in the substations of the Erdenet Mining Corporation. The research involved assessing soil resistivity, measuring corrosion of the grounding grid, and determining grounding resistance across 13 substations operating at various voltage levels. The analysis revealed critical insights into the state of the grounding equipment, corrosion rates, and the environmental factors affecting the system.

Most substations exhibited grounding resistance values within the permissible limits defined by international and Mongolian standards. However, certain substations, like TSRP-2 and TSRP-3, exhibited significant mechanical damage due to corrosion, necessitating immediate intervention. Ampacity calculations demonstrated diverse requirements for conductor sizing, ranging from 3.5 kA to 14 kA, with the TSRP-1 substation showing the highest short-circuit current ampacity.

The findings from this study offer valuable recommendations for ensuring safety, enhancing grounding system reliability, and improving corrosion protection measures at the Erdenet Mining Corporation's substations. The results underscore the importance of periodic inspections and targeted interventions to maintain optimal grounding conditions.