Donetsk, Nov 17 – DAN. Donetsk Research and Design Technological Institute developed a unique transforming substation surpassing western counterpart equipment, Institute director Yevgeny Varenik told Donetsk News Agency.

“We’ve developed a unique new generation explosion-proof substation to replace obsolete units. Former Soviet republics do not produce this equipment. In terms of reliability and capabilities it outperforms many western equivalents and is much cheaper, “ Varenik said. “Our unit would cost from 1.5 to 2 million Roubles ($23 000- $31 000) versus the price of 7 to 10 million Roubles ($108 000 - $155 000) for an explosion-proof western option.”

The director said the substation would be fitted out with state-of-the-art microprocessor control units to enhance parameter control precision and operational convenience.

The unit features more than ten new functions which are never combined in equivalents.

“We’ve added two-level thermal protection, power contacts welding protection for high-voltage contactor, arc protection, operation data remote transfer to automated control system using RS 485 interface etc.,” he added.

Scientists are finalizing technical documents. The unit is scheduled for batch production at Donetsky Energozavod state-owned company from 2017. Export is planned to Russia, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus and Kazakhstan.