Alstom Gateway to SICAM A8000 RTU Upgrading

Alstom Gateway to SICAM A8000 RTU Upgrading: The content discusses the ongoing project of upgrading the Alstom Gateway to the SICAM A8000 Remote Terminal Unit (RTU). The motivation behind the upgrade is to address the performance issues caused by an aging gateway. The project aims to establish a stable and secure connection between the local substation and the control center, as the current gateway is causing unreliable operation.

The SICAM A8000 RTU offers advanced capabilities and robust security features to enhance the efficiency and reliability of data acquisition and control processes. The initiative emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and modernization in ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of electrical substations.

The scope of work includes installation, integration with existing devices, and point-to-point testing with two control centers. Various hardware configurations and connections are showcased. The content also highlights the SICAM WEB Features that enable monitoring and troubleshooting of control center connections, ensuring optimal operation and performance.

Alstom Gateway to SICAM A8000 RTU Upgrading is an ongoing project that I have been personally involved in for the past month. It is driven by the pressing need to address the performance issues associated with an aging gateway. This project serves as a testament to the fact that even the most reliable and efficient devices can experience a decline in functionality over time, particularly in terms of hardware performance.

The focal point of this endeavor is establishing a stable and secure connection between the LOCAL Substation and the Control Center (also known as a SCADA system). In its current state, the local substation’s operation is hindered by the unreliable performance of the outdated gateway. This crucial link between the substation and the control center, responsible for real-time data transmission and monitoring, has been compromised due to the operating system failure of the existing gateway.

In light of these challenges, the decision was made to embark on an extensive upgrading process, involving the replacement of the Alstom gateway with the modern SICAM A8000 RTU. The SICAM A8000 RTU, which stands for Remote Terminal Unit, is a sophisticated device designed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the data acquisition and control processes within substations. Its advanced capabilities, along with its robust security features, make it the perfect choice for this essential upgrade.

By implementing this upgrade, we aim to enhance not just the performance of the connectivity between the substation and the control center, but also the overall operational efficiency and reliability of the entire system. This initiative serves as a reminder of the critical role that regular maintenance and modernization play in ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of complex infrastructure like electrical substations.

The Alstom Gateway to SICAM A8000 RTU Upgrading project exemplifies our commitment to leveraging innovative solutions that enhance the stability, security, and performance of crucial systems. It is through initiatives like these that we continuously strive to keep pace with technological advancements, ensuring the smooth and uninterrupted operation of vital infrastructure.

For more in-depth information on Remote Terminal Units and their significance in industrial systems, you can visit this informative article: What is a Remote Terminal Unit?

Alstom Gateway to SICAM A8000 RTU Upgrading

Overview of the system:

• IEDs: Alstom
• SERVER/HMI: Alstom
• Gateway: Alstom

Scope of Work Overview:

Within a month our teams running for work of:

• SICAM A8000 Installation
• SICAM A8000 Integration with IEDs on the systems (Alstom/Micom IEDs, ZIV IEDs for Distance Protection)
• SICAM A8000 Point-to-Point Test with 2 Control Center

Here is the schedule overview:

SICAM A8000 Installation:

We have 4 modules of SICAM A8000:

• PS Module: PS-8620
• CP8050 (CPU): CP-8050
• LED module: CM-8830
• DI Module: DI-8111

Here is the SICAM A8000 Hardware Configuration within the SICAM DEVICE MANAGER Project:

Here is the final work of the SICAM A8000 Hardware Installation:

After finishing the SICAM A8000 Hardware installation, then we are working on the Integration of SICAM A8000 to the IEDs using IEC 61850 protocols. Here is the connection status of SICAM A8000 to the IEDs within the online monitoring of SICAM A8000.

Here is the view of Online Signal Monitoring SICAM A8000:

The last work is Point Point Test to 2 Control Center using IEC 60870-5-104 protocol. As per the requirements of the Control Center, we have set the X3 Port using different IP addresses and different TCP ports. Thanks to all of the professional that has been involved in this project, especially Mr. Nanang and the teams.

Here is the sample configuration for connecting from SICAM A8000 to 2 Control Centers:

Here is the connection status of SICAM A8000 to 2 Control Centers:

When it comes to the SICAM WEB Features on SICAM DEVICE MANAGER, you can take advantage of a comprehensive range of functionalities. One of the notable features is the ability to effortlessly monitor the connection status to the Control Center. This feature empowers you to stay informed about the health of your control center connection, ensuring seamless communication between devices.

By providing real-time updates on the connection status, you can swiftly identify and resolve any potential issues that may arise. This not only enhances the overall stability and reliability of your control system but also enables you to maintain optimal operation and performance.

With SICAM WEB Features, you can achieve greater visibility and control, enabling you to make informed decisions and effectively manage your network infrastructure. So, whether it’s monitoring, troubleshooting, or managing your connections, SICAM WEB Features are designed to streamline your operations and optimize your control center’s functionality.