Introduction

A 220 kV substation plays a vital role in the electrical power transmission network. It is a high-voltage substation used to step down voltage from transmission levels to distribution levels, typically converting 220 kV to 110 kV, 66 kV, or lower voltages. The effectiveness of a 220 kV substation depends heavily on the precision and clarity of its layout drawing. This article provides an in-depth look into the standard 220 kV substation layout drawing, its technical details, design philosophy, component arrangement, and safety measures.

220 kv substation layout drawing

What is a 220 kV Substation Layout Drawing?

A substation layout drawing is a visual representation of how different electrical and structural components are arranged within the substation boundary. These drawings are essential for civil engineers, electrical designers, maintenance teams, and utility planners. In a 220 kV system, the layout drawing typically includes:

  • Electrical Single-Line Diagram (SLD)
  • General Arrangement (GA) of equipment
  • Control room layout
  • Earthing and grounding grid plan
  • Cable trench and conduit routing
  • Fire safety and access routes
220 kv substation layout drawing

Major Components in a 220 kV Substation

Here is an overview of the core equipment in a typical outdoor 220 kV substation:

EquipmentFunction
Power TransformerSteps down voltage from 220 kV to lower levels
Circuit BreakerDisconnects the circuit during faults
IsolatorProvides physical separation for maintenance
BusbarsConductive bars to distribute electricity
Lightning ArresterProtects equipment from voltage surges
CTs & PTsFor protection and metering
Control & Relay PanelsHouse automation and protection systems

Types of Substation Layout Drawings

1. Electrical Single-Line Diagram (SLD)

This diagram shows how the electricity flows through the substation using symbols for transformers, breakers, and lines.

2. General Arrangement (GA) Drawing

It gives a top-down view of all major equipment and their spatial relationship.

3. Foundation and Civil Layout

Shows the civil structures such as foundations, trenches, cable ducts, and fencing.

4. Grounding and Earthing Layout

A vital drawing showing the earthing mesh that ensures safety and fault current dissipation.


Technical Specifications for 220 kV Substations

ParameterStandard
Rated Voltage220 kV
Insulation Level1050 kVp lightning impulse
Rated Frequency50/60 Hz
Short-Circuit Rating40 kA for 3 seconds
Neutral GroundingSolidly grounded
Protection SchemeDistance + Differential + Backup Overcurrent

Step-by-Step Layout Design Process

Step 1: Site Survey and Land Selection

  • Flat, well-drained land
  • Easy access for equipment transportation
  • Away from residential zones

Step 2: Determine Busbar Configuration

  • Single bus
  • Double bus
  • One-and-a-half breaker scheme

Step 3: Placement of Main Equipment

  • Transformers on concrete foundations
  • Busbars mounted on gantries
  • Circuit breakers in between incoming and outgoing lines

Step 4: Grounding Grid Design

  • Grid spacing typically 3–5 m
  • Copper or galvanized steel conductors

Step 5: Control Room and Cable Trenches

  • Located away from high EMF zones
  • Trenches should be fireproof

Safety and Clearance Standards

DescriptionClearance
Phase-to-phase3000 mm minimum
Phase-to-earth2750 mm minimum
Vertical clearance5000 mm minimum
Clearance around equipment1500–2000 mm

These clearances are defined as per IEC and local utility standards.

220 kv substation layout drawing

Applications of 220 kV Substations

  • Urban high-load areas
  • Renewable power evacuation
  • Inter-state or inter-country grid connections
  • Major industrial hubs

PINEELE’s Engineering Expertise

PINEELE provides full engineering services for 220 kV substations:

  • AutoCAD substation layout drawings
  • Turnkey EPC contracts
  • Site surveys and civil design
  • Smart automation integration
  • IEC & IEEE-compliant designs

📧 Contact: [email protected]
📞 Phone: +86-18968823915
💬 WhatsApp Support Available


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What size of land is required for a 220 kV outdoor substation?

A: Typically between 30,000 to 50,000 square meters depending on the number of bays and configuration.

Q2: Can 220 kV substations be installed indoors?

A: Yes, with Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS), but the cost is significantly higher.

Q3: What is the expected construction time?

A: Generally 12–18 months including civil, mechanical, and electrical works.


A detailed and accurately executed 220 kV substation layout drawing is foundational for a safe, reliable, and scalable power system. Whether it’s step-down transformation, power distribution, or renewable integration, a 220 kV substation ensures seamless energy flow across regions.

With years of high-voltage engineering experience, PINEELE stands as a trusted partner in substation design, manufacturing, and deployment.

“Powering the Future, Engineered by PINEELE”