What is IEC 61850-8-2:2018?

The IEC 61850-8-2:2018 standard, titled "Communication networks and systems for power utility automation - Part 8-2: Specific communication service mapping (SCSM) - Mapping to Extensible Messaging Presence Protocol (XMPP)", is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It is a specification that defines the communication protocols and services used in power utility automation systems.

Purpose of IEC 61850-8-2:2018

The main purpose of the IEC 61850-8-2:2018 standard is to provide a standardized way for different devices and systems in power utility automation to communicate with each other. This standard specifies how information is exchanged between various devices, such as protection relays, substation automation systems, and control centers. It ensures interoperability and compatibility among different manufacturers' devices, enabling seamless integration and efficient operation of power utility systems.

Key Features of IEC 61850-8-2:2018

The IEC 61850-8-2:2018 standard incorporates the use of the Extensible Messaging Presence Protocol (XMPP), which is an open-standard communication protocol used for real-time communication. This allows for reliable and secure data exchange between devices. Additionally, the standard defines the structure and format of the messages exchanged, including the data models and information object classes used.

Furthermore, IEC 61850-8-2:2018 supports various types of communication services, such as event notification, file transfer, and control commands. These services enable efficient monitoring, control, and configuration of power utility systems. The standard also provides guidelines for implementing security measures, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data exchanged between devices.

Benefits and Adoption

The adoption of the IEC 61850-8-2:2018 standard brings several benefits to power utility automation systems. Firstly, it promotes interoperability among devices from different manufacturers, reducing integration efforts and costs. It also enables seamless communication and data exchange, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of power utility operations.

In addition, the use of standardized protocols and services simplifies system configuration and maintenance. As a result, power utilities can better utilize their resources and respond more effectively to changing demand and grid conditions. The security measures defined in the standard help protect critical infrastructure against cybersecurity threats, ensuring the resilience and stability of the power grid.

Overall, the IEC 61850-8-2:2018 standard plays a crucial role in advancing power utility automation systems. Its widespread adoption by manufacturers and operators alike is indicative of its importance in modernizing and optimizing power networks around the world.