Improvement of Distribution Automation by implementing MasterRTU

Improving efficiency and reliability of the distribution network remains a critical goal for many utilities. Distribution Automation (DA) optimizes a utility´s operations directly improving the reliability of its distribution power system. Distribution automation was implemented by Great Tehran Electrical Distribution Corporation (GTED Co.). As the demand for electrical is ever increasing, the resulting increase in network complexities demands a higher degree of automation and communication, both for remote control and power system management. In order to monitor and control the automation of new substations the existing infrastructure must be upgraded, which brings about a number of difficulties. To resolve these difficulties the Niroo Research Institute of Iran (NRI) proceeded to design and construct an advanced Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) which can support the installation of new substations by improving data communications with a control center. In this paper we present a solution to improving the automation system of a substation. The overall structure of this RTU implemented by our institute is presented along with a discussion on the methods used to resolve the problems of utilizing such a system.