Smart Grid Automation
Firecomms fiber optic solutions deliver on the communication needs in the modern smart grid environment, meeting the needs of both utility managers and equipment designers. As utility managers employ the latest techniques to measure and optimize grid load factors to economically manage electricity demand and supply, equipment designers must ensure that the reliability of control and protection information within the modern transmission and substation network not be compromised by the harsh environment in which these applications operate.
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Protect, Control, Sense
Today's transmission networks require intelligent monitoring and control of the substation environment. Due to its immunity to the significant electrical and electromagnetic interference within these environments, fiber optic communications can effectively ensure reliable data transfer from and within the substation network. Firecomms DC-50 MBd fiber optic transmitters and receivers transfer control and feedback data to IGBT/IGCT semiconductors within the HVDC inverters. To provide isolation within the rectifier voltage monitoring circuits, designers can take advantage of Firecomms DC-5 MBd transceivers over Plastic Optical Fiber (POF) for the short distances required. Modern day substation automation requires control of various elements within the network examples of which include control of circuit breakers and switching relays. Due to the very high voltages and currents involved, together with significant EMI, POF or Plastic/Polymer Clad Silica (PCS) fibers are used to transfer information to and from the control center. Over these fibers, various proprietary and standardized bus protocols such as CAN, RS485 or LON are employed at data rates in the order of a few MBd. Firecomms DC-10 MBd and DC-50 MBd transceivers are designed to operate with these fibers.
In order to maximize the efficiency of the grid network for utilities and substation operators several data points are measured throughout the grid on line-mounted sensors or from users' homes and factories using smart meter feedback. These measurements are used to optimize substation VARs and power correction circuits. At several points throughout the substation Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs ) conforming to IEC-61850 communication standards monitor and control the VARs and circuits. In this application, it is becoming increasingly common to utilize IP communications protocols for which Firecomms' Fast Ethernet range of 125 Mbps or Gigabit transceivers make an ideal fit.
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Power Grid SVC
Industrial Electrical Substation Control Application
Smart Grid Automation Application Diagram
To ensure compatibility and versatility, Firecomms offers the widest choice of fiber optic solutions with our range of transmitter, receiver and transceiver products in three different connector configurations: OptoLock® LC and RedLink®
- Industrial Transceivers (1 Mbps-1 Gbps)
- Analog Transmitters & Receivers
- Industrial RedLink® Transmitters & Receivers (DC-1/ 5/ 10/ 50 MBd).
RedLink®
The form factor of the RedLink® (RL) family is compatible with the Versatile Link range of connectors and cables. We offer a range of industrial grade fiber optic transmitters and receivers (DC-1/5/10/50 MBd) in the RedLink® connector.
LC Transceivers
The LC connector has been ratified by the IEC for use with POF and PCS cable assemblies. We offer analog and industrial fiber optic transceivers at DC/5/10/125/250 Mbps in an LC connector.
OptoLock® Transceivers
The patented OptoLock® (OL) provides the quickest of terminations with bare POF at DC/5/10/125/250 Mbps and GigE speeds.
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Firecomms Fiber Optics for Smart Grid and Substation Automation Applications:
- EMI/RFI immunity ideal for industrial, harsh, noisy environments, such as high voltage DC
- inverters motor controllers, and frequency inverters
- Galvanic isolation between transmitter and receiver, ideal for complying with, or extending creepage and clearance distance requirements
- Visible spectrum operation enables eye-safe, fast troubleshooting
- Low power consumption, transmitters capable of operation at 3-4mA
- Durable, flexible and lightweight
- Resilient to bending and vibrations
- High reliability for extended machine uptime
- Industrial temperature in range of -40 to +85ºC
- Reduced maintenance cycle time provides up to a 20-year lifecycle on transceivers and cables
- Simplified field installation for easy termination of large core optical fibers in custom distances
Flexible Solutions from Firecomms
Firecomms offers a range of high quality Plastic Optical Fiber cables. SMI, LC, and RedLink® plugs, and pre-assembled patch cords in all OptoLock®, LC and RedLink® styles. These products are suitable for use with Firecomms’ range of transceivers and other industry-standard products.
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