Aksu Ferroalloy Plant is improving the reliability of its power supply

Another stage in the modernization of the power supply system has been completed at Aksu Ferroalloys Plant. A 250 MVA power autotransformer has been installed at Main Step-Down Substation No. 4 and put into pilot industrial operation. The project has created a reserve capacity, improved the reliability of power supply to production facilities and enabled the plant to begin upgrading the substation’s key equipment.

The new unit is 25% more powerful than its predecessor. Following its commissioning, the main autotransformer, which had been in operation for more than 40 years, was taken out of service for a major overhaul. After the overhaul is completed, the second transformer will undergo a similar upgrade, which will make it possible to complete the main stage of the substation modernization.

“Previously, when one of the transformers was taken out of service for maintenance, the capacity of the second unit was insufficient to cover the shop’s full load. The new autotransformer provides the necessary reserve capacity, enables more flexible load distribution and allows us to confidently support the further development of the enterprise’s production capacities,” said Serik Aitenov, Head of the Networks and Substations Section of the Electrical Shop.

The new equipment is fitted with modern online monitoring and self-diagnostics systems, an automatic fire suppression system, and is also ready for integration into the enterprise’s unified power equipment control system. According to specialists, the use of modern technical solutions will improve the reliability of operation and the efficiency of maintenance of power facilities.