BKM provided Engineering and Prime Consulting support for this large electrical infrastructure upgrade planning effort. As design prime, BKM managed a DD 1391 planning specialist, civil engineers, structural engineers, cost estimators, and 3rd party peer review consultants. BKM also provided Electrical Engineering as well as Project Management.
The purpose of the project was to improve maintenance operations, costs, resilience, energy usage, and reliability.
Work involved upgrades to three separate substations on the base. 34.5 KV overhead lines were modified, new 34.5 KVA switchgear was designed, new 15MVA double ended substation transformers were provided, double ended 4KV Switchgear was provided with electronic multi function relay protection, dynamic medium voltage capacitors were provided, and new 4KV feeders were provided. Overhead line connections were modified as needed to assist with phasing and to simplify the system for future maintenance. Safety and reliability was a factor so all overhead equipment was converted to underground feeder configurations. Tie feeder breakers were added between 4 KV SWGRs to allow breakers at both ends for full maintenance capabilities. Transformer protection features were included in the 4KV SWGR, and all work was coordinated to allow compatibility with a future SCADA upgrade. Dual feeders were configured in the replacement 34.5 KV SWGR to allow for greater reliability. Future growth of the base was considered by performing a detailed future load analysis. Transformers were specified as energy efficient to reduce energy costs. Lighting was planned at each location, as well as confirmation of adherence to anti-terrorism force protection and fire protection requirements.
Detailed phasing plans were developed that included combinations of diesel generator back up, modification or overhead lines to switch over existing loads to other substations, and interconnections within manholes and sectionalizing switchgear.
BKM worked closely with Base facilities staff to understand the critical needs of the project, and was able to assemble a concept that cost effectively met the client’s needs. The project was completed ahead of schedule and established the budget for the upgrades in the coming fiscal years.
A detailed Project Management Plan and Quality Control Plan were established soon after contract award. This enabled the team to get on the same page about expectations and process for the project execution. A detailed schedule was published to the client with internal milestones considered to ensure that Quality, cost control, and critical path items were considered in all submissions and decision making.
