Retrofit of Existing Substation Infrastructures

This chapter is a guide for the engineer on common drivers and various methods used in the retrofit, analysis, and reuse of an existing substation structure or foundation. Replacing equipment during upgrades or equipment failures may lead to the reuse of a structure or foundation. When retrofitting substations, environmental factors such as asbestos and soil contamination should be considered. Federal, state, and local environmental regulations address the proper handling, management, transport, and disposal of each of these contaminants if they are found in soils or surrounding areas. Any number of security improvements in an existing substation may be necessary for increasing security. A rational approach should be taken when evaluating the impacts of load variations or structural modifications to existing structures. The retrofit of existing structures should include a prior inspection of structurally relevant areas. Any significantly corroded or damaged members need to be repaired or replaced as part of the retrofit.