INL’s barrier system to protect substations In Northern California
USA: The Idaho National Laboratory has licensed the production of an Armored Transformer Barrier system.
Image source: Idaho National Laboratory
USA: The Idaho National Laboratory has licensed the production of an Armored Transformer Barrier system.
INL has first developed the system to protect an electric power substation in Northern California.
INL’s Armored Transformer Barrier system has been licensed for production by Michigan-based Waltonen Engineering, a full-service design and engineering company. The armour package, made from military grade steel, creates a formidable barricade to protect high-value, critical substations from threats, including high-power rifles or vehicles laden with explosives. It also remains stable in Category 2 hurricanes.
The system was first designed following a 2013 sniper attack on an electric power substation in Northern California, which caused more than $15 M in damage and destroyed 17 transformers.
“From the beginning of this project, our goal was to design a simple and cost-effective solution to protect the power grid from physical threats and attacks,” lead designer Henry Chu said. “After years of effort, we’ve thoroughly validated and documented this technology’s effectiveness, and we’re excited to see it manufactured and put to use.”
Each barrier system consists of four components — an A-shaped frame, two armour cassettes that slide into the frame, and an optional top-hat armour extension. A separate corner piece locks in to provide 360-degree protection. Each package can be transported unassembled to a substation site on a commercial truck and reassembled on-site.
“We are proud to support INL in the effort of protecting our nation’s infrastructure,” Lloyd Brown, president and CEO of Waltonen Engineering, said. “As a small business providing design and fabrication, we understand the need for and importance of a reliable power grid. The Armored Transformer Barrier does just that by protecting the often-overlooked physical assets.”
Source: Daily Energy Insider
#Armored Transformer Barrier System#Idaho National Laboratory#transformers#USA#Waltonen Engineering