Abstract
Improving substation performance can be achieved by selecting a network design that enhances network reliability. Different network topologies can be executed for communication networks inside and outside of the substation based on standard power industry protocols, such as distributed network protocol version 3 (DNP3), Generic Object-Oriented Substation Event (GOOSE) messages, and Sampled Values (SV). Possible network topologies include star, ring bus, and others. Each of these substation topologies contains multiple Ethernet switches to transmit a variety of traffic such as measurement data, commands, and engineering access between intelligent electronic device (IED) nodes and the central station. Field installations in substations use a mix of different topologies and a mix of different capabilities of switches such as managed switch, unmanaged switch, hub, and software-defined network (SDN) switches. The various network topologies have different levels of performance, stability, and reliability. Similarly, the different types of switches each contribute different levels of performance, stability, and reliability for the substation networks.
GOOSE and SV messages are usually transferred via Ethernet frames, which contain measurement information or commands such as signaling a trip operation. In addition, both protocols pass through multiple Ethernet switches in normal operation. The Ethernet switch is an essential part of a network and plays a vital role in ensuring the connectivity of various devices. In addition, Ethernet switches often are designed according to the general requirements of various industries. Some of them are also customized depending on the environment and other factors.
This thesis will present a comparative analysis of the various types of Ethernet switches and their reliability and response times in transmitting GOOSE messages. This will help industrial facilities and students in university courses to understand the differences between the switches and make the right preparations for future substation network plans.
This thesis will observe and evaluate the performance of the substation networks with series and star topologies implemented with different types of Ethernet switches using network emulation software. It will compare the reliability of these topologies and switches inside a simulated substation with IED devices by transferring GOOSE messages to measure network speed, reliability, and performance. The simulation tool emulates a substation network that consists of six IEDs broadcasting GOOSE messages which are transmitted through two or three switches connected to a remote terminal unit, with different numbers of switches depending on the topology. This thesis demonstrates a communication network of substations for use in assignments or labs for classes and possibly for research projects.