Fire Protection System in Substations
1. Introduction
Substations contain critical electrical equipment that poses a fire hazard due to high voltages, oil-
filled transformers, and short-circuit faults. A robust fire protection system minimizes risks,
prevents equipment damage, and ensures operational continuity.
2. Fire Hazards in Substations
Transformer oil fires.
Short circuits leading to arc flashes.
Battery room explosions (hydrogen accumulation).
Cable fires due to insulation failure.
3. Fire Protection Measures
3.1 Fire Detection System
Smoke Detectors: Installed in control rooms and battery rooms.
Heat Detectors: Placed near transformers and cable tunnels.
Flame Detectors: Used for rapid fire detection in open areas.
3.2 Fire Suppression System
Automatic Water Sprinkler System: For buildings and cable trenches.
Gas-based Fire Suppression System (FM-200, CO₂): For control rooms and relay
panels.
Water Spray (Deluge) System: For transformer and reactor protection.
3.3 Fire Extinguishers
CO₂ Extinguishers: For electrical fires in control panels.
Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) Extinguishers: For general-purpose fire suppression.
Foam-based Extinguishers: For oil-based transformer fires.
4. Transformer Fire Protection
Oil Containment Pits: To prevent oil spread in case of leakage.
Firewalls between transformers: As per IEEE 979 and NFPA 850.
Automatic Fire Protection System: High-velocity water spray or nitrogen injection
system.
5. Emergency Response Plan
Fire Alarm System: Linked to control rooms for immediate alerts.
Fire Hydrant System: Strategically placed for quick firefighting.
Evacuation Plan: Clearly marked exit routes and assembly points.
Fire Drills & Training: Regularly conducted for personnel preparedness.
6. Compliance and Standards
NFPA 850: Fire protection for electric generating plants and substations.
IEC 61936-1: Power installations exceeding 1 kV AC.
IS 3034: Indian standard for fire safety in electrical installations.
7. Conclusion
A well-planned fire protection system in substations enhances safety, prevents costly damage,
and ensures uninterrupted power supply. Regular inspections and adherence to fire safety norms
are essential for maintaining system effectiveness.
This document outlines key fire protection measures in substations. Next, I will prepare the
Quality Control and Testing in Substation Construction.