Cellular Communications Within FLISR Applications for Electric Utilities

MCA CNS TeamMCA News, Sierra Wireless

Cellular Networking Devices Improve FLISR Systems


Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR) systems are a crucial component of the operation of electric utilities, designed to detect, isolate, and restore power after a fault or outage occurs. These systems utilize advanced monitoring and control technologies to quickly identify the location of the fault, isolate the affected section of the power grid, and restore service to the unaffected areas. FLISR systems help minimize downtime, improve grid reliability, and enhance the overall efficiency of electric utility operations.

One technology that has significantly enhanced FLISR is cellular communications. Cellular networks offer several benefits in FLISR applications, which have made them increasingly popular among utilities.


AirLink XR80 for FLISR Communications

Benefits of Utilizing Cellular Communications in FLISR Applications


Here are some of the top benefits of cellular communications within FLISR applications:

Real-Time Monitoring


Cellular communications enable real-time monitoring of the distribution network. This allows utilities to detect faults quickly and accurately, improving the efficiency of the fault management process.

Remote Control


Cellular communications enable remote control of switches and other network equipment. This makes it possible to isolate faulty network sections quickly, restoring power to other areas more rapidly and reducing overall downtime.

Increased Network Visibility


Cellular communications provide utilities with increased visibility into the distribution network. This means that utilities can monitor network performance, detect potential issues before they become significant problems, and make necessary repairs more quickly.

Improved Accuracy


Cellular communications offer greater accuracy in fault detection and location. This means that utilities can more quickly identify the source of a fault and minimize the number of customers affected by the outage.

Increased Reliability


Cellular communications offer increased reliability and redundancy, ensuring the FLISR system remains operational even during a power outage.

AirLink RX55 for FLISR Communications

Challenges of Utilizing Cellular Communications in FLISR Applications


Along with its benefits come a few challenges associated with utilizing cellular communications in FLISR applications.

Coverage


Network coverage is one of the biggest challenges of using cellular communications for FLISR applications. Since these systems rely on real-time data transmission, any interruption in network coverage can result in a delayed response or even a complete failure of the FLISR system. To overcome this challenge, utilities must select cellular devices that support multiple carriers and bands, enabling them to connect to the strongest available network in any given location. Additionally, utilities can deploy redundant systems with multiple communication paths, such as radio or LoRaWAN communications, to ensure that the FLISR system stays connected even in areas with poor cellular coverage.

Bandwidth


FLISR applications require high bandwidth for transmitting large amounts of data, including real-time monitoring data, fault data, and restoration plans. However, cellular networks have limited bandwidth, and high traffic levels can lead to network congestion, resulting in data loss or delay. Electric utilities must prioritize critical data and optimize data transmission to address this issue. They should also consider utilizing private LTE networks (like NetCloud Private Networks (NCPN)) or gated data services (like ExpressM2M).

Security


Another challenge of using cellular communications for FLISR applications is security. Cellular networks are susceptible to hacking and cyberattacks, which can compromise the security of FLISR data and potentially cause damage to the power grid. To mitigate this risk, utilities must deploy secure cellular routers and gateways that provide advanced encryption and authentication features. Additionally, utilities must implement strict access controls and monitoring procedures to ensure that only authorized personnel can access the FLISR system.

Interference


Cellular communications can also be affected by interference from other electronic devices, especially in densely populated areas. This interference can cause signal loss or degradation, impacting the reliability of FLISR data transmission. To overcome this challenge, utilities can deploy cellular devices with advanced interference detection and mitigation features. These devices can adjust their transmission frequencies and power levels automatically to avoid interference and maintain optimal signal quality.

Power Consumption


Cellular devices used in FLISR applications must operate for extended periods of time without access to a power source. This requires cellular devices with low power consumption (like the RV50x and RX55 from Sierra Wireless) and long battery life. To overcome this challenge, utilities must select cellular devices designed for low power consumption and feature energy-efficient technologies, such as sleep mode and power management features. They can also utilize NEMA enclosures to house their communications devices connected to solar arrays as a backup or primary power source.

Cost


Finally, the cost of cellular communications is a significant challenge for electric utilities, especially for those with large service areas. The cost of cellular data plans and equipment can be expensive, and electric utilities must find ways to manage these costs while still providing reliable and efficient FLISR applications. Gated data plans like Express M2M are affordable and scalable, built with electric utility applications in mind. And planning for the bulk purchasing or industrial routers affords discounts that small run and one-off purchases generally do not.

AirLink XR90 for Field Service Vehicle Communications

Fast and Reliable LTE Connectivity for FLISR Applications


Despite these challenges, cellular communications have numerous benefits in FLISR applications. They provide fast and reliable connectivity, enabling electric utilities to respond quickly to faults and restore service to customers.

Moreover, cellular networks are ubiquitous, making them an excellent choice for electric utilities with large service areas. With advanced security measures and optimized data transmission, cellular communications can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of FLISR applications, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and increased operational efficiency.

They enable real-time monitoring, remote control, increased network visibility, improved accuracy, and increased reliability, all of which are crucial for minimizing outage times and reducing overall costs. As cellular networks continue to improve with the advent of low, mid, and mmW 5G, they are likely to become an even more essential component of FLISR systems in the future.

About USAT


USAT specializes in designing and deploying fixed and mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for utilities of all kinds (electric, gas, oil, water, and wastewater) — complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts. 



Our team not only helps you select, provision, and activate devices, we make sure they work in practical applications and real-life situations.

For over 25 years, USAT has provided cellular networking solutions to local, regional, and national utilities across the USA. With our extensive catalog of world-class routers, gateways, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments — you can count on us to get and keep you connected.

Reliable connectivity translates to less manual equipment maintenance, reduced downtime, enhanced communications capabilities, and the ability to help you minimize operational costs. Contact the experts at USAT to learn how our wireless networking solutions can help meet your organization's exacting needs.

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