Following a challenging period of reliance on highly priced energy from abroad, the demand for UK power is higher than ever. According to a report by Public First, by 2028, the estimated demand is projected to exceed secure dispatchable and baseload capacity by 7.5GW during peak times, such as winter evenings. This gap is nearly double the difference observed in 2022, which was 4GW.
Electrical substations are integral to the efficient transmission of electricity through the national grid, ensuring the stability of everyday life across the country. CSD can help to ensure that these substations are secure and reliable, to maintain the essential infrastructure needed to meet the country’s power supply needs.
Avoiding flood risks to ensure substation reliability
One significant threat to the productivity and efficiency of electrical substations is the risk of flooding and water ingress.
Unfortunately, flooding is becoming more common in the UK due to the affects of climate change. A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture so that when it rains, the rainfall is heavier and more likely to lead to flooding. This is leading to warmer and wetter winters in the UK.
What happens when water infiltrates a substation?
Increased humidity levels and structural damage can jeopardise the sensitive electrical equipment housed within the substation. This can lead to prolonged periods of downtime, interrupting the power supply and necessitating expensive repairs.
Repeated flooding exacerbates maintenance challenges and can further strain financial and operational resources. By implementing effective flood prevention and water management strategies, we can provide crucial safeguarding of the integrity and reliability of the electrical grid.
Case study: Water and gastight sealing using NOFIRNO Penetration Sealing System
Following a site survey, CSD Technical Services was contracted to seal multiple entry points within a cable chamber at an electrical substation as part of a flood protection program. This program aimed to prevent water ingress and reduce the risk of equipment damage and power outages. An area within the switch room required the replacement of existing fire protection seals during the installation visit.
What challenges were faced during the installation?
Significant water ingress had to be addressed before any sealing work. The team carefully removed the existing fire-rated cement without damaging the cables and then installed the new fire-rated penetrations.
The NOFIRNO Sealing System, a safer and more flexible solution, was successfully installed, providing water, gastight, and fire-rated seals. Tested to BS EN1366 and rated to EI240 (up to 4 hours of fire protection), the NOFIRNO system offers robust protection.
The NOFIRNO cable and pipe penetration system, comprising a few components, offers comprehensive sealing protection. Correctly fitting NOFIRNO cable sleeves are placed around each cable, with free spaces packed using NOFIRNO multi-sleeves, followed by a 20mm layer of NOFIRNO sealant at each end. For optimal adhesion, all surfaces must be clean and dry. The system provides fire-rated, water, and gastight seals, proven to protect for at least 50 years.
Prevention over reaction
Why is preventing water ingress better than reacting to it?
Preventing water ingress is far more effective and economical than reacting to its consequences. Proactive flood protection measures, like the installation of reliable sealing systems, can avert the costly damage and extended downtime caused by flooding. By safeguarding substations against water ingress, utilities can ensure continuous power supply, reduce maintenance challenges, and minimise financial strain. Investing in prevention not only enhances the resilience and reliability of the electrical grid but also supports the growing demand for power in the UK, ensuring a stable and secure energy future.
Don’t wait for flooding to impact your operations – eliminate risk and take proactive steps to protect your critical infrastructure now and strengthen your operation into the future.