In the American electrical system, 765 kV and 345 kV are Extra High Voltage (EHV)
transmission levels, while 34.5 kV is a common sub-transmission or distribution voltage
The specific parameters for a Gas-Insulated Substation (GIS) depend heavily on the utility's
specific design criteria and system studies (e.g., short circuit studies), all guided by general
requirements outlined in IEEE and ANSI standards, particularly the IEEE C37 series.
Key electrical parameters governed by these standards include:
Standard Voltage Ratings
Nominal System Voltages: 765 kV, 345 kV, 34.5 kV.
Maximum Operating Voltages: ANSI/IEEE standards specify a maximum system
voltage for equipment ratings.
o For 765 kV systems, equipment is often rated for a maximum of 800 kV.
o For 345 kV systems, equipment is often rated for a maximum of 362 kV.
o For 34.5 kV systems, equipment is typically rated for a maximum of 38 kV.
Insulation and Withstand Voltages (BIL and SWIL)
Insulation levels are critical for GIS design and are defined by Basic Impulse Insulation Level
(BIL) and Switching Impulse Insulation Level (SWIL). These values are specified in IEEE
C37.122 and C37.123.
Parameter
765 kV
345 kV (EHV) 34.5 kV (HV)
(EHV)
Lightning Impulse Withstand ~1050–1175
~2100 kVp ~150–200 kVp
(BIL) kVp
Switching Impulse Withstand Not typically specified for
~1550 kVp ~850–950 kVp
(SWIL) this level
Power Frequency Withstand ~830 kV ~520 kV ~70 kV
Current Ratings
Continuous Current: This is site-specific and depends on the expected load.
o Transmission levels (765 kV, 345 kV) typically have continuous current
ratings ranging from 2000 A to 8000 A.
o Distribution/sub-transmission (34.5 kV) ratings are typically lower, often
ranging from 600 A to 2000 A.
Short Circuit Current: The required short-circuit current rating (momentary and
interrupting) is determined by system short circuit studies, following the methodology
in ANSI/IEEE C37 standards.
o Common short circuit current ratings for EHV substations can range from 40
kA to 80 kA (symmetrical RMS).
o For 34.5 kV substations, ratings are typically lower, e.g., 25 kA or 40 kA.
o
Relevant American Standards
Design and testing of the GIS equipment adhere to the following key standards:
IEEE C37.122 & C37.123: Guides for the application and specifications of gas-
insulated substations rated for various voltages (C37.122.2 for up to 52 kV, and
C37.123 for 52 kV and above).
IEEE C37.04: Standard for ratings structure for AC high-voltage circuit breakers.
ANSI/IEEE C37.100: Standard definitions for switchgear.
IEEE Std 80: Guide for safety in AC substation grounding.