A plan for upgrading electrical power distribution systems at South Dakota Cement

The author provides a description of South Dakota Cement´s high and medium-voltage distribution systems, which provide electric power to the various plant processes. The system´s deficiencies with respect to the IEEE standard for cement plants, operational continuity, and personnel safety are noted. A plan to be used as a guide for future installation and upgrades of the plant´s electrical system is also presented. It is noted that the proposed changes and additions to the high-voltage (69 kV) system will provide for service continuity in the event of a catastrophic failure. This flexible high-voltage system will allow for annual preventive maintenance to be scheduled during nonshutdown periods. The following benefits will be realized from the proposed upgrade to the 2400 V medium-voltage system: the oldest and least reliable electrical equipment will be replaced; the 2400 V and 480 V ungrounded delta systems will be replaced; the older low-efficiency motors will be replaced by newer high-efficiency motors