Performance evaluation of data transmission in a single and double bus network within the utility substation based on IEC 61850

Communication between intelligent electronic devices (IED's) is an important feature of a utility substation automation system based on IEC 61850. Time critical information related to fault and overcurrent, under frequency messages for substation automation system (SAS) and the use of IED's from multiple vendors, has opened up issues related to a reliable protection system within the high voltage substation. Early detection of the delay in data transmission over a Generic Object Oriented Substation Event (GOOSE) network is an important step towards identification of problems associated with the dynamic protection system. It is observed that non critical messages adds up the queuing time and delays in the delivery of the messages which could be an issue in the reliable operation of a protection system. In this paper an Optimized Network Engineering Tool (OPNET) model is created, tested and analysed for a single and double bus configuration in detail for the delay encountered in data transfer within a typical zone substation. In order to understand the delay in transmission of packets, a 132/22kV zone substation model is analysed and results are discussed based on GOOSE communication in an IEC 61850 environment. Further, the delay in communication is compared and analysed between a single and double bus system of a 132/22kV substation to determine the best alternative technique available from protection point of view in a SAS network.