How Does a European-Style Prefabricated Substation Work? Complete Guide
Time：2025-09-2 Auther：ZTelec-www.ztelectransformer.com
European-style prefabricated substations, also known as ZBW type substations, are compact, efficient, and reliable power distribution units that play a vital role in modern electricity networks. By integrating high-voltage switchgear, transformers, and low-voltage distribution equipment into a single enclosure, they simplify installation, reduce construction costs, and ensure stable operation of the power system.
Structure and Function of a European-Style Prefabricated Substation
The ZBW prefabricated substation consists of several key functional areas that work together to manage incoming high-voltage power, step it down, and distribute it safely:
Main Structure
The substation enclosure includes four distinct sections:
Transformer Room: Handles voltage conversion, reducing high-voltage electricity to safe, usable levels.
Switchgear Room: Contains incoming switches and load switches, responsible for connection, disconnection, and safe power transfer.
Cable Tunnel: Provides a dedicated pathway for cable laying, inspection, and maintenance.
Cabinet Room: Houses metering, dispatch, and monitoring systems to ensure real-time control and management of power flow.
High-Voltage Side Configuration
The high-voltage side typically adopts a load switch–fuse protection system. For example, the commonly used FLN-12 SF6 load switch provides excellent insulation and arc-extinguishing capability. The fuse offers primary protection by immediately cutting power in case of severe transformer faults.
Low-Voltage Main Distribution Cabinet
The low-voltage cabinet serves as the final control stage before power delivery. It integrates isolating switches, breakers, and metering devices. Circuit breakers are sized at 2.0–2.5 times the transformer capacity, ensuring stable circuit performance and overload protection.
Workflow of a European-Style Prefabricated Substation
The operation of a European-style prefabricated substation follows a streamlined five-stage workflow:
1. High-Voltage Incoming Line: Power enters the substation via underground or overhead high-voltage cables.
2. High-Voltage Protection and Switching: Load switches ensure controlled connection, while fuses and surge arresters safeguard against faults and overvoltage events.
3. Voltage Transformation: The transformer reduces high-voltage electricity (commonly 10 kV) to low-voltage levels (such as 400 V) for end users.
4. Low-Voltage Distribution and Protection: Low-voltage power is measured, compensated for reactive losses, and distributed through outgoing circuit breakers with built-in fault protection.
5. Low-Voltage Outgoing Line: Electricity is delivered directly to residential, commercial, and industrial loads.
Main Features and Advantages of European-Style Prefabricated Substations
Compact and Integrated: High-voltage, transformer, and low-voltage units are built into a single enclosure with rainproof, dustproof, and anti-corrosion properties, saving space and construction costs.
Factory Prefabrication: Equipment assembly and testing are completed in the factory, requiring only simple on-site installation and cable connection.
Safe and Reliable: With IP33 or higher protection, independent locks, and optimized layout, the substation ensures high safety standards.
Flexible Configuration: Transformer capacity and equipment options can be tailored to meet diverse project requirements, including mobile solutions for temporary power supply.
Aesthetic and Eco-Friendly: Designed to blend with modern urban landscapes, the substation minimizes environmental impact while ensuring stable and efficient power delivery.
European-style prefabricated substations represent a modern, efficient, and safe solution for power distribution. With their integrated design, robust safety features, and adaptability, they are widely applied in residential, commercial, and industrial power networks. For projects requiring fast installation, reliable performance, and long-term efficiency, the ZBW prefabricated substation is a proven choice in the global power industry.
