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Emerald Switching Station


TeckCominco Metals Ltd.


British Columbia, Canada
     
 
 
In Trail, British Columbia, natural resource company TeckCominco Metals Ltd, operates one of the largest fully integrated lead/zinc smelters in the world. For over 60 years, the power required to run the smelting operation was supplied and distributed through two aging switching stations, which due to their age posed a number of reliability and safety issues that needed to be addressed.

Teshmont was selected to conduct a reliability assessment of the overall 63 kV transmission and distribution system supplying power to TeckCominco’s facilities as well as carry out a feasibility study on various options to improve the overall system. Teshmont’s recommendation was to replace the two existing switching stations with a new modern 63kV station as well as the replacement of the distribution feeders supplying the various TeckCominco substations within the smelting operation.

The new 63 kV station, named Emerald Switching Station, was designed as a double busbar arrangement with two bus section bays and two bus coupler bays. Fifteen elements, including five 63 kV transmission lines, eight 63 kV distribution feeders and two 35 MVAr filter banks, are connected through single breaker bays complete with bus selector disconnects. This arrangement provides a high degree of reliability and operational flexibility at a very cost effective price. Control of the station is provided via a modern substation automation system, utilizing multifunction bay controllers integrated together via a fibre optic network. 		 
 
   

Teshmont was involved with the project from the original feasibility studies through the design and to final commissioning. The services provided include:

  • Preparation of feasibility studies to examine various alternatives to improve overall system reliability and safety.

  • Development of the substation design including single line diagrams, equipment layouts and bus work design.

  • Preparation of primary equipment specifications.

  • Preparation of substation automation system specifications.

  • Conducting harmonic filter studies to specify two 35 MVAr filter banks and later to verify contractor design.

  • Design and development of load shedding and generation shedding Remedial Action Schemes (RAS).

  • Design of eight new distribution lines using a combination of tubular steel and wood pole structures.

  • Conducting protection settings studies.

  • Witnessing of equipment factory tests.

  • On site commissioning.