X-type brick-built substations are an increasingly used type of substation in areas operated by Scottish Power. But, what exactly are these substations, and what are they used for? In this blog from Serconnect, we cover all there is to know about these substations. Below, you’ll find out about their unique protections, what their benefits are, and our expertise in constructing them.
What Is an X-Type Brick-Built Substation?
An X-type brick-built substation is a specific type of substation used within the Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) area in the UK, specifically the “Manweb” area, containing Merseyside, North Wales, and parts of Cheshire.
These substations are distinguished by being fully interconnected and utilising pilot wire protection, which is a technology more common in primary substations. These technically complex and larger substations are not a generic type of substation, but a specific SPEN designation.
Why are X-Type Brick-Built Substations Used?
X-type brick-built substations are used to guarantee an electrical supply as a result of their resilient design, including their two Ring Main Units and unique Solkar protection. These features provide the assurance that if there’s a fault on the HV network anywhere, power to that substation won’t be lost.
This helps IDNOs to avoid the risk of fines for Ofgem-managed networks due to supply interruptions. In addition, those connected to X-type brick-built substations will benefit from the reliably consistent power supply.
What Does an X-Type Brick-Built Substation Contain?
An X-type substation comprises the following equipment:
- A 11kV/433V Transformer
- 2x Free-standing X-type 11kV Ring Main Units
- A mounted 400V cabinet
- A wall-mounted Solkor protection panel
- A battery charger unit
The Method for Building an X-Type Brick-Built Electric Substation
The method for building an X-type brick-built substation involves various civil engineering, transformer installation and substation installation processes.
As opposed to the standard size of a brick-built substation (3.1m x 3.7m), X-type substations are instead up to 7m x 5.5m to house their larger components. Their complex build, including their transformers and LV cabinets, which are mounted together and two separate HV switches, differs from standard ‘package’ substations, which instead all come mounted together.
First, a 250ml concrete slab is implemented as the base for which the bricks will be placed. Then, cable pulling pits and ducting runs are added before being infilled with stone. Over these elements, wooden shuttering, steel mesh, and earthing is installed, then again filled with concrete to create the floor level. This then forms the foundation upon which the brickwork is then built. The external walls are often constructed as insulated masonry cavity walls with a facing brick outer skin.
For the roof, a raised shuttering is built, supported by Acrow props and steel. A crane with a concrete skip then drops concrete onto the roof to be poured and skimmed over the scaffolding. This then sits in situ for a minimum of 10 days.
Metal doors and vents are then installed, after which the substation’s equipment is then sited. This includes the transformer, double LV cabinet, DNO Ring Main Units, the relevant tray work, small power lighting and the Solkor (a protective asset unique to Scottish Power). The Solkor unit is then installed with the relays on, alongside a separate battery control unit (BCU).
Case Study: Ionity
At Serconnect, we’ve aided Ionity, a leading EV charge point operator, partnered with Village Hotel Liverpool, to implement a 2MVA charging network. This involved the installation of an X-type brick-built substation and various civil solutions to complete the job. As a result of our expertise, we completed the project on time and with high satisfaction from the client.
You can find out about how we carried out this installation in further depth by reading our full Ionity case study.
Get in Touch
If you need assistance in installing an X-type brick-built substation for your site, Serconnect are fully equipped to complete the job as per your budget and time requirements. With many years of experience, our engineers are capable of delivering your project swiftly and efficiently.
Many Independent Connection Providers do not offer the installation of X-type brick-built substations as a service, though we at Serconnect are highly experienced and capable of doing so. Covering everything from the civil solutions required to the complete substation installation, our team is fully capable of constructing these substations. Get in touch with us today to find out how our team can help you with your project.
