Reasons why stones are used in substations or switch yards
The stones used in substations vary from 2-2.5 inch.
There are numerous reason of using gravel or stones in substations. These are:
- In case of fire outbreak and oil leakage in transformer, the stones prevent the oil spills from a rampant fire outbreak since the oil sinks beneath easily.
- They are also used to easily identify oil leakages in transformer.
- Stones reduce the step and touch potential of operators on the switch yard since they have an increase resistance thereby increasing soil resistance. So, stones reduce the possibility of an electric shock of the operators.
- Prevent a pool of water during rainy periods since water sinks beneath the stones.
- Keeps the ground wet by maintaining the moisture beneath, and provides minimum moisture above the ground ( on gravel).
- Working condition is improved by these stones.
- Stones reduce the growth of plants in switch yards
- Protect from wildlife and other animals like snake which finds difficulty in crawling in such areas.
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| Stones in a substation |