Design of Zonal Electrical Distribution Systems for Ships & Oil Platforms: Control Systems and Protections

Complex energy vessels such as large platforms or drillships require more efficient use of electrical power. As shipboard electrical systems become larger, problems and limits arise with the AC distribution architecture. Hybrid AC/DC onboard distribution systems are today available, which provide higher efficiency and redundancy. IEEE Std. 1662, 1709 and 1826 set technical rules and recommendations for the design of hybrid AC/DC shipboard electrical systems. Among these. Zonal Electrical Distribution Systems (ZEDS) are considered a next technological evolution, as they provide optimal power sharing (and energy storage) along with high reliability.The paper is organized in sections: 1. energy specifications of new electric ships/platforms endowed with ZEDS; recommended design of ZEDS, mostly focused on relevant integration issues such as 2. voltage/power controls and 3. protections for DC faults and electrical safety.