⚡ ETAP or DIgSILENT PowerFactory: Simulation and Analysis of Power Systems

⚡ ETAP or DIgSILENT PowerFactory: Simulation and Analysis of Power Systems

Course Code: 7005-EL

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✅ Introduction

Modern power systems require advanced simulation tools to ensure optimal design, operation, and stability. ETAP and DIgSILENT PowerFactory are two leading platforms in the modeling, analysis, and control of electrical networks. This course equips power engineers with hands-on skills in using these tools for real-world system simulation and optimization.

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📖 Course Description

This course offers an in-depth comparison and practical training on ETAP and DIgSILENT PowerFactory software. Participants will learn how to model various components of power networks, perform load flow and fault analysis, assess dynamic stability, and apply advanced protection strategies. The course balances theory with extensive real-case simulations.

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🎯 Objectives

• Understand the differences and capabilities of ETAP and DIgSILENT.

• Build accurate models of electrical networks.

• Conduct detailed load flow and fault analysis.

• Assess dynamic behavior and system stability.

• Simulate and improve real-world electrical networks.

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🧩 Module 1: Introduction to Simulation Software (ETAP & DIgSILENT)

Hours: 5
Topics Covered:

• Overview of ETAP and DIgSILENT PowerFactory: Purpose, Licensing, Applications

• Interface Navigation: Main menus, libraries, toolbars

• Starting a New Project: Defining base frequency, voltage levels, and system configurations

• Data Import & Export: Excel import, COMTRADE files, and external data integration

• Software Comparison: Strengths and use-cases of each tool

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🧩 Module 2: Power Network Modeling

Hours: 10
Topics Covered:

• Busbars and Network Topology Design

• Generators: Data entry, dynamic models, excitation & governor settings

• Transformers: Winding configuration, impedance, tap changers

• Transmission Lines: Cable vs. overhead modeling, RLC parameters

• Loads: Constant power/current/impedance models, load profiles

• Synchronous and Asynchronous Machines

• Renewable Sources: PV and wind integration basics

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🧩 Module 3: Load Flow Analysis

Hours: 10
Topics Covered:

• Load Flow Fundamentals: Types (Newton-Raphson, Gauss-Seidel), Convergence Criteria

• Power Flow Setup in ETAP/DIgSILENT: Solver options, settings, and constraints

• Slack, PV, and PQ Bus Configurations

• Power Losses and Voltage Drops Analysis

• Generator Reactive Power Sharing

• Case Study: Power flow simulation for an industrial distribution network

• Optimization Scenarios: Capacitor placement, tap settings, load shedding

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🧩 Module 4: Fault Analysis

Hours: 8
Topics Covered:

• Short Circuit Types: 3-phase, L-G, L-L, L-L-G

• Fault Modeling: Fault impedance, fault location, and fault types

• Time-Domain Fault Simulations (Transient Analysis)

• Protection Device Settings: Breakers, relays, fuses

• Coordination and Selectivity Studies

• Arc Flash Analysis Basics (in ETAP)

• Case Study: Fault analysis and relay coordination for a substation

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🧩 Module 5: Dynamic Stability and Transient Analysis

Hours: 7
Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Power System Stability: Transient, small-signal, and voltage stability

• Dynamic Models for Generators, AVR, Governor, Load Dynamics

• Event Simulation: Generator outage, line trip, load change

• Swing Curves, Rotor Angles, Frequency Deviations

• Modeling of Control Systems (Exciter, PSS)

• Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) Simulation

• Case Study: Transient stability of a grid-connected generator

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🧩 Module 6: Real-world Applications & Project Work

Hours: 10
Topics Covered:

• Project 1: Full Load Flow and Optimization for a Distribution Network (ETAP)

• Project 2: Fault Analysis with Relay Settings (DIgSILENT)

• Project 3 (optional): Stability analysis of a mixed energy microgrid

• Best Practices in Simulation and Validation

• Interpreting Reports and Exporting Results

• Comparison of Simulation Results with Field Data

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🎯 Assessment and Review

• Quizzes and Assignments per Module

• Final Project Presentation & Review

• Feedback Session and Software Proficiency Evaluation

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📚 What You Will Learn

• Interface and project setup in ETAP and PowerFactory.

• Modeling of generators, transformers, cables, loads, and substations.

• Load flow computation and voltage loss mitigation.

• Short-circuit and ground fault analysis.

• Protection settings and coordination.

• Dynamic stability simulation under disturbances.

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👥 Target Audience

• Electrical Power Engineers

• Network Operators and Designers

• Energy Consultants and Researchers

• Grid Reliability Specialists

• Advanced Electrical Engineering Students

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📦 Course Materials

• Access to ETAP and DIgSILENT software or simulation environment

• Realistic power system project files

• Templates for modeling and analysis

• Protection coordination charts

• Case studies and reference guides

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🛠️ Instruction Methods

• Theoretical Lectures

• Step-by-step Software Demonstrations

• Hands-on Lab Sessions

• Real Project Simulations

• Group Problem Solving

• Guided Case Study Analysis

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⏱ Time Frame

Total Duration: 50 Training Hours

• 25 Hours Theoretical Concepts

• 25 Hours Practical Applications and Projects

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🧩 Course Format

• Live Online or In-Person Training

• Flexible weekly sessions (5 hrs/week) or intensive bootcamp (10 hrs/week)

• Includes digital handouts, video tutorials, and exercise files

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🏆 Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, participants will be able to:

• Efficiently use ETAP and DIgSILENT to simulate electrical networks.

• Analyze power flow, voltage profiles, and energy losses.

• Diagnose and assess the impact of electrical faults.

• Design reliable protection and coordination schemes.

• Simulate and evaluate system stability under dynamic conditions.

• Apply learned skills to real-world power network scenarios.

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