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Austin Energy Summer Internship

Overview​

During my summer internship at Austin Energy, I gained invaluable hands-on experience with various aspects of electrical grid operations. This internship provided a deep dive into electrical engineering concepts, grid management, and the development of automation programs to enhance operational efficiency and safety.

Projects and Responsibilities​

Electrical Grid Equipment​

  • Reclosers: Learned to manually configure reclosers, devices that automatically open and close circuits to isolate faults.
  • Fuses: Gained understanding of different types of fuses and their applications in the grid to protect circuits from overcurrent.
  • Transformers: Worked on configuring transformers, which are crucial for stepping down high voltages to usable levels.
  • Substations and Air Switches: Gained practical knowledge of how substations and air switches are used in power distribution.

Automation Programs​

  • Bill of Materials (BOM) Automation:
    • Developed a program to automatically generate a BOM for specific electrical subsystems using Python.
  • Excel to SEL Relay Configuration:
    • Created a system to convert Excel spreadsheets into configurations compatible with SEL relays using AcSELerator QuickSet software.
  • Transformer Fuse Sizing:
    • Implemented a program to automatically size and insert fuses onto transformers based on their ratings and whether the line was looped or already fused.
  • Fire Hazard Detection:
    • Developed a program to automatically detect potential fire hazards on power lines, taking into account line type and fuse size.
  • Unfused Tap Detection:
    • Created a system to detect unfused taps, identifying unprotected and unsafe line conversions.
  • Fuse Coordination:
    • Designed a program to automatically size and coordinate every fuse on the grid, minimizing customer power outages and improving grid reliability.

Software and Tools​

  • Milsoft Windmil:
    • Utilized Milsoft Windmil software for grid modeling and analysis, focusing on fuse coordination and grid layout optimization.
  • Programming Languages:
    • Primarily used Python for developing automation scripts and programs.
  • AcSELerator QuickSet:
    • Worked with SEL's proprietary software to configure relay settings, enhancing grid safety and efficiency.

Learning and Development​

  • Gained a comprehensive understanding of electrical engineering concepts and grid management.
  • Developed problem-solving skills through the creation and implementation of various automation programs.
  • Enhanced programming skills, particularly in Python, and learned to integrate software tools for practical applications.
  • Collaborated with professionals and other interns, gaining insights into the energy industry and teamwork dynamics.

Impact and Achievements​

  • Streamlined several critical processes within Austin Energy, improving operational efficiency and safety.
  • Contributed to the development of programs that will be utilized by the company to automate and optimize grid operations.
  • Received positive feedback for innovative solutions and effective implementation of automation programs.

Conclusion​

My summer internship at Austin Energy was an enriching experience that significantly enhanced my understanding of electrical engineering and grid operations. The hands-on projects and the development of automation programs provided practical insights and valuable skills that will benefit my future endeavors in the field.