Load Flow & Short Circuit Study — Hospitality Facility, Dammam
Validating electrical network performance under steady-state and fault conditions for a large hospitality facility in Dammam, Saudi Arabia — prior to energisation.
Project Overview
Power Projects was engaged to undertake Load Flow and Short Circuit Studies for a large hospitality facility in Dammam. The objective was to validate the electrical network performance under steady-state and fault conditions prior to energisation.
The studies were performed using ETAP (Version 22.5/24) to assess system behaviour, confirm equipment adequacy, and support reliable operation.
System Overview
The electrical network comprised key distribution equipment serving the hospitality facility's power requirements.
To ensure a practical and stable model, LV loads were aggregated at 0.415 kV and switchboards with incomers below 630 A were modelled as lumped loads.
Scope of Work
Load Flow Study
- Voltage profile across all buses
- Feeder and transformer loading
- Voltage drops across the network
- Power factor at the point of interconnection
- System losses and reactive power demand
- OLTC operating range and adequacy
Short Circuit Study
- Three-phase faults
- Line-to-line faults
- Line-to-ground faults
- Double line-to-ground faults
- Fault current levels at key locations
- Equipment interrupting capacity
- Thermal and mechanical withstand capability
Engineering Approach
A detailed ETAP model was developed based on validated project inputs. Simulations were conducted to verify system performance under both normal and fault conditions, followed by an engineering review to confirm compliance with design requirements.
Approved single line diagram
Transformer and cable data
Switchgear ratings
Load schedules
Key Considerations
Voltage Regulation
Voltage regulation across distributed LV loads was assessed to ensure all buses remain within acceptable limits under varying load conditions.
Transformer Loading & OLTC
Transformer loading margins and OLTC performance were verified to ensure adequate capacity and tap range under steady-state operation.
Fault Level Compliance
Fault levels were assessed at key locations to confirm that all switchgear ratings meet equipment interrupting and withstand requirements.
Reactive Power & Power Factor
Reactive power demand and power factor at the point of supply were evaluated to support efficient and compliant system operation.
Outcomes
The study confirmed that the electrical network meets all design and performance requirements for safe energisation.
Acceptable voltage profile across the entire distribution network
Adequate transformer loading margins under all operating conditions
Full compliance of switchgear with fault level requirements
No overload conditions detected under steady-state operation
Satisfactory reactive power performance at the point of supply
Deliverables
Project Delivery
The study was completed within a two-week timeframe following receipt of input data.
Turnaround
Ensuring Safe & Reliable Commercial Operations
Pre-commissioning studies are critical to ensuring safe and reliable operation of electrical systems in commercial facilities. This project demonstrates a structured approach to system modelling, voltage and loading assessment, fault level verification, and equipment suitability — supporting informed design decisions, reducing operational risks, and ensuring long-term system performance.
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