Supporting safe landings by roadway lighting research at Schiphol

Challenge

n the event of power consumption and capacity fluctuations, lighting could theoretically fail. To make the situation on site even safer, HyTEPS was asked to map out effects that might occur in the event of unforeseen power outages.

The reason for this was the renovation of the emergency power supply and (sub)distributor of lane station J2. This is located at the center of Schiphol and fed from the medium voltage ring network. In the event of voltage drop, an emergency power generator automatically switches on.

Objectives

• Identify impacts of unforeseen power outages on taxiway lighting
• Prevent malfunctions and failure of equipment

Solution

“We conducted a variety of measurement studies and deployed active filters,” explains Christan van Dorst, Manager Technical Engineering, HyTEPS. “In this way, we not only help ensure the reliability and continuity of power, but we also help use available capacity optimally and improve energy efficiency.”

Power quality analyzers were used to measure the transformer power supply and the emergency generator power supply. While measuring, the voltage was interrupted, after which the emergency generator took over the power supply.

Results

“Our measurement results were tested against Netcode limits for normal and islanding operation. Based on the measurement results, no deviations were found. Transformer and generator voltage levels exceeded the standard.”

Harmonic voltage was found to be lower in islanding operation than in normal operation, although both levels are acceptable. However, HyTEPS did recommend reducing the voltage on the second phase in normal operation as this appeared to be relatively high.

Thanks to the measurements, Power Quality has improved, ensuring the installation continues to work properly and ensuring the safety of all employees.

“In terms of energy consumption and complexity, Schiphol could be compared to a sizeable city.” explains Ton Baltus, Head of Installation Managers at Schiphol. “For me, it is very important to make all possible risks transparent. HyTEPS’ measurements are vital to realizing this and verifying whether new installations will bring us exactly what we expect.”