Digital seismic assessment for primary electrical distribution device using response spectrum technique

Earthquakes are sudden disturbances of the Earth’s surface caused by geological activities, significantly impacting power distribution network components. Due to the unpredictable nature of future earthquakes, probabilistic modelling for structural analysis is crucial to ensure the robustness of electrical distribution products. Seismic simulation aims to reproduce earthquake effects on structures, with three primary methods available: Response Spectrum, Power Spectral Density, and Time History. This paper employs the Response Spectrum Analysis technique, which combines modal responses to determine deflection, stress, and acceleration, setting the methodology for seismic assessment of electrical distribution units. This approach enhances structural robustness and reliability, improving the uptime of electrical distribution networks. The study correlates and calibrates simulation data with laboratory tests. Finite Element numerical methods are used to build a mathematical model in simulation software, significantly increasing test success rates and ensuring the safety of electrical distribution devices. The analysis provides data on acceptable limits of different characteristics, identifying weak zones in the unit. Historical laboratory test data were compared to correlate simulation results, with response frequencies used as input for simulation to calibrate the FEA model. This comprehensive study reduces testing time for product variants and facilitates virtual certification in conjunction with laboratory test.