Validation of a new Condition Assessment Approach for GIS

In electrical power supply system gas-insulated substations (GIS) are used for several decades. About fifty GIS on high voltage level are operated by Westnetz GmbH, Germany's largest distribution grid operator. They differ in age and type. Several of them are situated in the second half of their estimated life cycle. That fact necessitates decisions concerning maintenance and renewal strategies. The asset management needs a solid basis for decision making. A system approach was created in cooperation of Wuppertal University and Westnetz GmbH that enables to assess the GIS´s condition with special attention to the substation´s features. Advanced measuring techniques (hard facts) are combined with visual inspections (soft facts). Finally a decision making basis is created stating the…