UNLOCKING TURNKEY IEC 61850 PROJECTS: PART 2 – PROGRAMMING AND FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TESTING (FAT)
This month’s Featured Technical Paper is from the Proceedings of the 2025 International Conference of Doble Clients. The paper is titled: Unlocking Turnkey IEC 61850 Projects: Part 2 – Programming And Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT).
Abstract
Continuing the IEC 61850 multi-part series, Part 2 delves into the programming (configuration) and Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) stages of turnkey substation projects. It outlines how intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) and systems are configured using standard IEC 61850 tools and files to achieve multi-vendor interoperability, and how comprehensive off-site testing ensures a seamless integration before deployment. Key technical insights include the use of Substation Configuration Language files (.ICD, .CID, .SCD) to unify device configuration, and best practices in setting up IED communication and logic. The paper also contrasts greenfield (new installation) versus brownfield (retrofit) project considerations, highlighting case studies of each to demonstrate challenges and solutions in real-world scenarios. Critical importance is placed on conducting thorough FAT – assembling and testing the entire system in a controlled environment – to validate functionality and performance. Lessons from projects that underutilized FAT underscore the risks of inadequate testing, while an examination of FAT intensity trade-offs guides practitioners in balancing thoroughness with project constraints. Finally, post-FAT deployment steps are discussed to ensure a smooth transition to on-site commissioning. This condensed paper maintains essential technical explanations and case study insights, providing a clear and concise guide to effectively program and test IEC 61850 systems as part of a successful turnkey implementation.
Doble Service Agreement Clients
This and other technical papers and presentations are available in the MyDoble Resource Center - one of the many benefits available to you as a Doble Service Agreement Client. To get to the MyDoble Resource Center login click here. Not a member? Follow the sign-up process.