Towson University Underground Infrastructure Study

The primary objective of this study was to comprehensively record as-built conditions and evaluate the state of the medium voltage (13kV) underground system and distribution equipment extending from the central utility plant's 13kV Switchgear to 47 TU buildings. The project entailed documenting the as-built conditions of the feeders within each manhole, pad-mounted switch, oil-filled transformer, and HVL switches located within diverse buildings.
 
The project scope encompassed the survey and documentation of two lineups of 13.2kV customer-owned Switchgear, 89 manholes, 54 S&C outdoor pad-mounted 13 kV switches, 21 outdoor pad-mounted oil-filled transformers, and 29 indoor HVL 13 kV switches. The distribution system comprised 22 distinct 13.2kV feeders arranged in a dual radial distribution system, offering redundancy with a standby through 11 unique feeders, each consisting of an A and B feeder. Our survey team collaborated with local Medium Voltage Electrical Contractor Maranto Electric to enter each of the 89 manholes and document feeder sizes and types, manhole and duct bank dimensions, as well as trace conduits and feeders to buildings and other manholes. Additionally, a second electrical contractor and a 3-Dimensional photography company were engaged to capture 3-D photographs inside each manhole, augmenting our survey efforts and providing TU with a visual representation and documentation of their existing underground infrastructure.
 
Deliverables included site plan drawings precisely indicating the location of all buildings, manholes, duct banks, S&C Medium Voltage outdoor pad-mounted switches, oil-filled transformers, and indoor HVL switches. Butterfly diagrams of each manhole were provided, alongside detailed one-line diagrams illustrating the routing of all feeders throughout the expansive college campus via the underground network. A comprehensive report narrative accompanied the drawings, offering an inventory and assessment of all MV distribution equipment surveyed, along with recommendations for upgrades and improvements to address various deficiencies identified during the project's duration.