Designing reliable high-performance IEC61850 substation communication networks based on PRP and HSR topologies

In this paper the usage of new redundancy mechanisms defined in IEC62439-3 and their influence on substation networks is discussed. This paper gives a short overview of PRP and HSR and outlines how the usage of these new redundancy protocols influences substation network design. Since new IEC624393 network redundancy mechanisms require new or adapted network architectures the paper starts with a discussion about the network requirements for different voltage levels and types of devices. Especially protection devices and substation controller are addressed. Different network structures are discussed and their advantages and disadvantages concerning reliability, complexity and performance. Among others the usage of RSTP as additional redundancy mechanism in PRP networks and the position of RedBoxes and devices at different locations are discussed.