RTP Main Campus Power Systems Study

BKM provided a full power systems study consisting of short circuit analysis, equipment evaluation, protective device coordination study, and arc flash study for the EPA RTP Campus electrical distribution system. The scope of the study includes the 480V substations and all distribution equipment down to the 208V branch panels in buildings A, B, C, D, E, High Bay, FEELC and the NCC building which houses the EPA datacenter. Analysis included the upstream NIH 15KV Switchgear, two additional line ups of 15KV Metal Clad Switchgear, and approximately six double ended unit substations as well as approximately 1,710 panelboards, MCCs, Switchboards, etc.  Campus generators interconnect at 480V level and were evaluated for protection, coordination, and power flow.  The existing solar plant was an important part of this study as it currently contributes approximately 600KW, but there are plans for future expansion.  Relay settings were evaluated within the context of the future solar expansion.  Also included in this study was the Campus’s main data center.  Relay coordination and device trip settings were carefully evaluated and adjusted in cooperation with the EPA to ensure that any future short circuits or ground faults would result in as minimal an outage as possible, while minimizing or eliminating the risk of nuisance tripping.  Following the study, BKM provided schematic design to correct system deficiencies on this research campus.