Using GOOSE messages in a main-tie-main scheme

Main-tie-main (MTM) transfer schemes increase reliability in a power system by switching a load bus to a secondary power source when a power interruption occurs on the primary source. Traditionally, the large number of physical I/O lines required makes main-tie-main schemes expensive to design and implement. Using Ethernet-based IEC 61850, these hardwired I/O lines can be removed and replaced with generic object-oriented substation event (GOOSE) messages. Adjusting the scheme for optimal performance is done via software which saves redesign time and rewiring time. Special attention is paid to change-of-state GOOSE only; no analog GOOSE messages are used, making the scheme fast and easy to configure, maintain, and troubleshoot. Applications such as fast motor-bus transfer are discussed with synchronization remaining at each breaker relay. Simulation test results recorded GOOSE message latencies on a system configured for a main-tie-main scheme. This paper presents details of open and closed, manual and automatic transfers.