What is the primary purpose of relay testing in substations?

The primary purpose of relay testing in substations is to ensure the proper functioning of protection relays during faults. Protection relays are critical components in electrical systems, as they monitor electrical parameters and detect abnormalities such as overloads, short circuits, or faults. When a fault occurs, these relays must quickly and accurately operate to disconnect the faulty section of the system, thereby protecting equipment and maintaining system stability.

Through relay testing, technicians can validate the settings, response times, and operational reliability of these relays. This helps ensure that they will react as intended in an actual fault condition, thus minimizing the risk of equipment damage or safety hazards. Conducting these tests routinely or after maintenance activities provides confidence that the relay systems will function effectively when needed.