Kit media
National Instruments announces the launch of a new Phasor Measurement Unit(PMU) hardware platform associated with the NI Grid Automation System. This technology allows operators to have a more advanced knowledge of the health of a network, so that they can adapt measurement solutions to the evolution of their specific needs.
The Grid Automation System relies on compactRIO's on-board acquisition and control system. The controller runs a real-time Linux distribution, NI Linux Real-Time, with a programmable software application layer that makes it easier to integrate custom specifications into "on-shelf" hardware. This new system comes with a ready-to-use PMU function and complies with the ANSI C37.118.1a-2014 standard, or as an open LabVIEW project to be customized.
As network owners face issues of storage and production of renewable energy, plug-in electric vehicles, interconnections and increased demand, companies are looking for ways to simulate the automation of substations while improving the visibility of measurements. As a result, PMU technology has become a common tool for power system engineers. However, this type of control platform requires a manual measurement method and often depends on equipment suppliers. Open PMU technology resources are valuable for companies looking to expand their platform quickly, while ensuring freedom in design and software and hardware specifications.
National Grid UK, the UK's high-voltage transport network, has used CompactRIO hardware to design and customize its own harmonic measurement system. The company takes advantage of this technology to measure, collect and analyze energy quality data on the UK grid.
"We don't know what the future holds, but by choosing NI's CompactRIO platform, we are able to meet today's needs and adapt to tomorrow's needs," says Peter Haigh, Senior Power Systems Engineer at National Grid UK.
Find out more: https://www.ni.com/nationalgrid
