Substations are like the middleman of an electrical grid; they route and distribute power, coordinate switching activity, and keep entire regions running day and night. Substations are also full of sensitive electronic controls, such as SCADA systems, router hubs, protective relays, and RTUs, all of which are vulnerable to electromagnetic interference. This includes internally generated electromagnetic crosstalk interference, as well as external high‑altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP) attacks, both of which, left unchecked, can disable critical systems, disrupt water, power, and gas supplies, and halt modern living in society.

It is paramount to protect power substations and their affiliated switching, monitoring, and communications systems. In the following sections, we’ll discuss how substations can be effectively shielded from these threats, both internally and externally, and how MAJR Products provides the technologies, materials, and retrofit strategies to safeguard important infrastructures.

Inside Vs. Outside Threats to Power Substations

Inside a substation, the electricity being generated can create its own electromagnetic crosstalk interference, which can disrupt sensitive electronics that keep the whole station running. To protect these electronics, substations often have secure, shielded buildings to house the controls on-site. In other words, these buildings act as a safe zone that keeps electronics working properly in a high electromagnetic field environment.

Outside, there is always the threat of a rogue nation executing HEMP attacks, or in some cases, naturally occurring electromagnetic disturbances. If a HEMP attack occurs, it could cripple entire networks, including:

• Power grids
• Water treatment and distribution systems
• Natural gas and fuel networks
• Traffic control systems
• Financial networks

In short, the safety and convenience of modern living would come to a complete stop, which is why substations need well-designed and carefully implemented shielding for protection against internal and external electromagnetic threats.

How EMP and HEMP Shielding Protects Substations

The goal of shielding is to block or reduce electromagnetic fields so they don’t interfere with electronic equipment. In a substation environment, shielding solutions are multi-faceted and encompass a wide range of technologies, materials, and retrofitting strategies, such as:

• Enclosures and conductive barriers, which prevent electromagnetic fields from reaching sensitive areas.
  • Panels
  • Control rooms
  • Cabinets
• Sealed joints, doors, and panels, which provide a continuous conductive layer to make sure there aren’t gaps where EMP/HEMP can radiate through.
• Filtered, shielded feed‑throughs for power and data cables.
• Shielded vent panels allow for airflow and cooling while maintaining electromagnetic isolation.
• Regular inspections and replacements are necessary to keep the shield fully effective against threats.

With a robust shielding system in place, substations can protect themselves against internal and external threats for continuous operation around the clock.