What factors should you consider when selecting a power distribution maintenance schedule?

1 System configuration

The configuration of your power distribution system affects the type and frequency of maintenance tasks that you need to perform. For example, a radial system has a single source of power and a simple layout, while a ring system has multiple sources and a looped structure. A radial system may require less maintenance than a ring system, but it also has less redundancy and flexibility in case of a fault. You should also consider the voltage levels, the number of substations and feeders, the distribution transformers, and the protection devices in your system.

2 Equipment condition

The condition of your power distribution equipment determines the level of risk and the urgency of maintenance actions. You should monitor and assess the physical and functional state of your equipment regularly, using methods such as visual inspection, infrared thermography, oil analysis, and electrical testing. You should also keep records of the equipment's age, history, performance, and failures. Based on these data, you can prioritize the critical and vulnerable components that need more frequent or immediate maintenance.

3 Maintenance strategy

The maintenance strategy that you adopt for your power distribution system depends on your goals, resources, and constraints. There are different types of maintenance strategies, such as corrective, preventive, predictive, and condition-based. Corrective maintenance involves repairing or replacing equipment after a failure occurs. Preventive maintenance involves performing scheduled tasks based on time or usage intervals. Predictive maintenance involves using advanced tools and techniques to forecast equipment failures and plan maintenance actions accordingly. Condition-based maintenance involves monitoring equipment parameters and performing maintenance actions when they deviate from normal ranges.

4 Regulatory requirements

The regulatory requirements that apply to your power distribution system may influence your maintenance schedule. Depending on your location, industry, and customer base, you may need to comply with certain standards, codes, and regulations that specify the minimum requirements for power distribution maintenance and testing. For example, you may need to follow the guidelines of the National Electrical Code (NEC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

5 Operational impacts

The operational impacts of your power distribution maintenance schedule refer to the effects that your maintenance activities have on your system's availability, reliability, efficiency, and safety. You should balance the benefits and costs of performing maintenance tasks, considering the potential risks and consequences of equipment failures, faults, and outages. You should also coordinate your maintenance schedule with your system's demand patterns, load profiles, and contingency plans. You should minimize the disruption and downtime of your power distribution system while maximizing its performance and quality.

6 Stakeholder expectations

The stakeholder expectations of your power distribution maintenance schedule refer to the needs and preferences of the parties that are involved in or affected by your system's operation. These may include your customers, employees, managers, owners, suppliers, contractors, regulators, and the public. You should communicate and collaborate with your stakeholders to understand their expectations and requirements, and to align your maintenance schedule with their interests and objectives. You should also provide them with timely and accurate information and feedback on your maintenance activities and outcomes.