Faculty of Science & Technology

School of Engineering & Physics

REPORT
on
Industrial Work Experience
by

Terence Hyannu Cheon

S11125651

Gilbert Camp, East Honiara

[4th year BE]

[Major EE]

01 August 2023

This Report is submitted in partial fulfilment of the Requirements for Practical

Experience for the BSc/BE/BETech Degree in the School of Engineering & Physics
at USP.
 My Details

Name: Terence Hyannu Cheon

Student ID#: S1112561

Semester Contact Details:

Address (Physical): N/A

Address (Postal): N/A

Address (Email): s11125651@student.usp.ac.fj

Tel: N/A

Vacation Contact Details:

Address (Physical): Gilbert Camp, East Honiara, Solomon Islands

Address (Postal): N/A

Address (Non-USP Email): terencecheon@gmail.com

Tel: +677 7503520

Expected Graduation Date: September 2023

2
 CONTENTS

1. Summary of practical experience 4

2. Letter from employers 5
3. Technical Report 6
3.1 The Structure of the Company 6
3.2 My position in Company 8
3.3 Technical description of my job – weekly highlight schedule 9
3.4 Technical description of my job – Main Report 11
4. Conclusions 20
5. Acknowledgements 21

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.The managerial structure of Solomon Power. 6

Figure 2. Generation and outstation department structure. 7
Figure 3. (a) Terasaki vacuum circuit breaker of Caterpillar generator at Honiara
substation and (b) Merlin Gerin vacuum circuit breaker of Nigata generator at
Lungga PowerStation. 12
Figure 4. (a) L10 Nigata Generator, (b) bottom radiator frame with the radiator motor
and fan blade, (c) stator winding of the radiator motors and (d) rotor of the radiator
motor. 13
Figure 5. (a) L7 Wartsila generator, (b) L8 Wartsila generator, (c) main stator, (d)
three phase terminals, (e) exciter stator and VT fuses. 14
Figure 6.(a) nearest – L4, L3 and L2 generators, (b) VT fuses, (c) rectifier diodes of
the exciter stator, (d) main stator, (e) exciter stator and (f) permanent magnet
generator (PMG). 15
Figure 7. (a) faulty inverter no.1, (b) AC Supply and (c) DC Supply. 16
Figure 8. (a) Omicron CMC365, (b) faulty MiCom relay, (c) new MiCom relay and (d)
SCADA HMI at Kola Substation. 17
Figure 9. (a) 43 battery cells at the top bank and (b) 43 battery cells at the bottom
bank. A total of 86 battery cells for the 110v dc supply at the East-Honiara
Substation. 18
Figure 10. (a) 110v dc supply for L10, (b) 110v dc supply for L9, (c) 110v dc supply
for L7, (d) 48v dc supply for L6, 33kv and 11kv bus, (e) 24v dc supply for L7 AVR
and (f) 32v dc supply for bus 1 controls. 19

3
 1. SUMMARY OF PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

Period 1

Name of Employer: Solomon Islands Electricity Authority (Trading as Solomon Power)

Starting date of employment: February 13, 2023

Ending date of employment: April 28, 2023

Position/Job: Generation and Outstation Department/Electrical Division – Student Trainee

Number of Weeks: 11 Weeks

Number of hours: 412.5 hours

4
5
 3. THE TECHNICAL REPORT

3.1. The Structure and Operation of the Company

Company: Solomon Islands Electricity Authority trading as Solomon Power

Owner: State-owned Enterprise (SOP)

Full Address: Solomon Power, Ranadi Industrial Area, Honiara, Solomon Islands

Phone: +677 38842

Website: www.Solomonpower.com.sb

Managerial structure of the company:

Executive
Management Team

General General General General

Chief Chief Chief Chief
Manager Manager Manager Manager
Executive Engineer Financial Information
Corporate Customer Capital Special
Officer Officer Communication
Services Service Works Projects
Technology
Officer

Deputy
Chief
Engineer

Legal
Counsel

Manager Manager Manager

Generation Distribution Regulatory
and and Dep.
Outstation Transmission
Dep. Dep.

Figure 1.The managerial structure of Solomon Power.

6
Generation and Outstation Department structure:

Manager Generation
and Outstation

Electrical Mechanical Outstation Operation

Coordinator Coordinator Coordinator Coordinator

Figure 2. Generation and outstation department structure.

Company's Products:

 Electricity

Company’s Vision:

The company’s vision is ‘Energising Our Nation’.

Company’s Mission:

The company’s mission is to provide a safe, reliable, affordable and accessible supply
of electricity to the Solomon Islands.

Company’s Value:

The company’s values are;

 Respect for our customers and our people

 Improvement through change and innovation
 Meeting our service quality commitments
 Care for the environment
 Individual responsibility for our actions
 Honesty and Trust
 Teamwork

7
3.2. My Position in the Company

Title of my job/ jobs: Student Trainee

Immediate supervisor and Co-worker(s):

 Wesley Ramo – Electrical Coordinator

 Virylson Nomae –Electrical Engineer Thermal
 Lawrence Terry – Secondary System Engineer
 Kennedy – Electrical Engineer
 Christopher Bwagi – Senior Technician and Electrical Team Leader
 Jerry Francis Loft – Electrical Motor Re-winder
 Charlton Poloso – Electrical Technician
 Rickson Solo – Electrical Fitter
 Aaron Sangai – Electrical Technician

My position within the structure:

 Student trainee

Responsibility and requirements in my job(s):

 Responsible for carrying out tasks assigned to me by my supervisor and

assisting the technicians
 Teamwork and coordinating with other members of the team

Why was the job offered to me?

 The job was offered to me because of my background in electrical and

electronics engineering
 The job was offered to me because of growth expansion in the company’s
operation and the company need engineers who are well-established in the
daily operation and the system
 And also, because I have applied to the company to complete my Industrial
Work Experience which requires 800 hours of semi-professional hands-on
work experience

3.3. Technical description of my job – weekly highlight schedule

Table 1. Weekly Highlight Schedule

Week Date Highlights

13/02/2023  Induction and visit the generation and outstation department at Lungga
1 –  Replace faulty circuit breaker at Honiara Substation
19/02/2023  Attend fault issue with air compressor system

8
  Testing the new radiator motor no.1 for L7 (Wartsila diesel generator)
 Cleaning Alfa Laval disks for L4 (MAN diesel generator)
 Cell test Omicron CMC356 with SEL relay
 Replace faulty MiCom relay P642 at Kola Substation
 Identify VT for 33kV Bus 1 from Panel 5 (Bus Section) circuit diagram
 Attend fault issue with radiator motor No. 8 for L8 (Wartsila diesel
20/02/2023 generator)
2 –  Insulation Resistance (IR) test and continuity resistance test on ventilation
26/02/2023 motors No. 1 and No.2
 Installing a new 3-phase socket outlet
 2000 hrs maintenance service for L2 (MAN diesel generator)
 Install logger at Honiara Substation to measure load
 Attending fault issue with the crane inside the old power station
27/02/2023
 72,000 hrs Major Overhaul for L10 (Nigata diesel generator
3 –
commence)
05/03/2023
 Uninstall ventilation motor (No.1 & No.2) and radiator motors (No.1 –
No.6) for L10 (Nigata diesel generator)
 Pre-service checks and maintenance service for radiator motors (1 – 6),
06/03/2023
ventilation motors (1 & 2) and auxiliary motors (secondary water pump,
4 –
cooling water pump (1 & 2) and fuel oil circulating pump
12/03/2023
 2000 hrs maintenance service for L3 (MAN diesel generator)
 Continue maintenance service for radiator motors (1 – 6), ventilation
motors (1 & 2) and auxiliary motors (secondary water pump, cooling
13/03/2023
water pump (1 & 2) and fuel oil circulating pump
5 –
 Pre-service checks and maintenance service for lube oil transfer motors,
19/03/2023
lube oil priming motors and fuel oil drain discharge motor
 1000 hrs maintenance service for L7 (Wartsila diesel generator)
 Setup engineering access at Kola Substation
20/03/2023  Maintenance service main alternator for L10
6 –  Documenting Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for L10 radiators
26/03/2023  Maintenance service ventilation ducts
 Post-service checks and install radiator motors for L10

9
  Maintenance service continues for L10 main alternator and ventilation
ducts
27/03/2023
 Monitoring test on exciter rotor and main rotor of L10
7 –
 Monthly battery checks for Honiara East Substation
02/04/2023
 Attend fault issue with synchronization of L6 (Mirreles Blackstone)
 2000 hrs maintenance service for L4 (MAN diesel generator)
 IR test on lube oil priming motor for L6
 Install ventilation motor for L10
03/04/2023
 Install auxiliary motors for L10
8 –
 Monthly battery checks and inspections for old power station auxiliary.
09/04/2023
 General cleaning and inspection of L10 panels
 1000 hrs maintenance service for L8 (Wartsila diesel generator)
 Collect sensor specifications for L7
10/04/2023  Reset overload relay for L6 lube oil priming motor
9 –  Connect alternator main terminal and rectifier diodes
16/04/2023  Replace faulty inverter no.1 at the solar farm
 Tong test radiator and ventilation motors from LV switchgear panels
 Direction test of auxiliary motors
 Clean and Pre-service test vacuum circuit breaker of L10
 Pre-service test VT fuses for L10
17/04/2023  Maintenance service L7 radiator motor No.6
10 –  Monthly battery checks at East Honiara Substation
23/04/2023  General cleaning and inspection at Ranadi Substation
 Attend fault issue with Solar farm communication links
 72,000 hrs Major Overhaul for L10 (Nigata diesel generator halts
awaiting spare parts for the mechanical team)
 Post Service Test L7 radiator motor fan no.6
24/04/2023  Confirm panel number and circuit breaker codes for all feeders
11 –  Transport new battery cells for 110VDC power supply for Kola and
30/04/2023 Ranadi Substation auxiliary
 Replace faulty radiator fan motor no.1 for L7

10
3.4. Technical description of the Job – Main Report Essay

The Solomon Islands Electricity Authority (SIEA), trading as Solomon Power, is a state-owned
enterprise. It was established, incorporated, and constituted under the Electricity Act 1969 (Cap
128) and began operating on January 1, 1969. In addition to company management and human
resources, there are three departments responsible for the production, distribution, and
monitoring of electricity throughout the Solomon Islands. These three departments are
Generation and Outstation, Distribution and Transmission, and Regulatory. The department to
which I was attached is the Generation and Outstation Department, which consists of four
divisions: the electrical division, operation division, outstation division, and mechanical
division. For the first period of my practical (11 weeks), I was assigned to the electrical
division. This division oversees and rectifies all electrical faults and issues occurring at the
power plant, substations (including SCADA - Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and
outstations. The electrical division is headed by the electrical coordinator, who reports to the
generation and outstation manager. The generation department is responsible for the power
stations and solar farm that provide electricity to the capital, Honiara, and nearby Guadalcanal
villages. The main power station is the Lungga power station, consisting of nine generators:
L1 to L4 (MAN DIESEL), L6 (MIRRLESS BLACKSTONE), L7 and L8 (WARTSILA), L9
(MITSUBISHI), and L10 (NIIGATA). These generators supply power to the Lungga station,
and there are two additional generators at the Honiara substation, specifically for Black-Start
and supporting generators if needed. These generators are H1 and H2, and they are
CATERPILLAR engines. The electrical team is responsible for the maintenance, servicing,
and fault rectification of the generators' auxiliary motors, protection system, and control
systems.

3.4.1. Vacuum Circuit Breakers

During my first week with the department, I had the opportunity to assist the electrical team
with the replacement of a VCB for H2 (Caterpillar) Generator at the Honiara substation.
Similarly, during my final week with the electrical, I help assist the team to test the VCB for
L10 (Nigata) Generator. The vacuum circuit breakers are used as protection system for
generators in which the VCB separates the generator from the HV system and also used for
synchronizing the generator with the HV system. It is very important to test the VCB when
doing replacement or during maintenance. The procedure for maintenance or replacement of
faulty VCB with new VCB is the same. The first thing to do is to isolate the VCB then rack-
out and perform continuity resistance and insulation resistance test. When performing
continuity and insulation tests on a vacuum circuit breaker for generators, I followed a
systematic procedure to ensure accurate results. First, I prepared the necessary equipment,
including a digital multimeter, insulation resistance tester, and safety gear. Next, I carefully
inspected the circuit breaker for any physical damages or loose connections. After confirming
its integrity, I proceeded to perform the continuity test. This involved checking the electrical
connections and verifying that the current flows smoothly through the breaker. Using the digital
multimeter, I measured the resistance across various terminals to ensure they were within the
acceptable range. Once the continuity test was successfully completed, I moved on to the
insulation test. Using the insulation resistance tester, I measured the insulation resistance
between the circuit breakers bus and generator bars and its ground. This test helped determine
the effectiveness of the insulation materials in preventing leakage current. I recorded the
readings and compared them to the specified values. If the readings fell within the acceptable
range, it indicated proper insulation. Finally, I documented the test results and reported any
anomalies or deviations to the relevant stakeholders. By diligently performing continuity and

11
insulation tests, I ensured the safe and efficient operation of the vacuum circuit breaker,
contributing to the reliability and longevity of the generator system.

(a) (b)

Figure 3. (a) Terasaki vacuum circuit breaker of Caterpillar generator at Honiara substation and (b) Merlin
Gerin vacuum circuit breaker of Nigata generator at Lungga PowerStation.

3.4.2. Major Overhaul Service for Nigata Generator (L10)

During the major overhaul of the L10 generator, I provided valuable assistance to the electrical
team in carrying out maintenance and servicing tasks for all the electrical components of the
generator. One of the crucial aspects of my role involved working on the auxiliary motors
associated with the generator, including radiator motors, ventilation motors, lube oil priming
motor, lube oil transfer motor, cooling water supply motors, secondary water motor, and fuel
oil drain discharge motor. To begin with, we focused on replacing the old bearings of the
motors to ensure optimal performance and reliability. This involved carefully dismantling each
motor and thoroughly cleaning the stator windings and rotor using lectra clean, a specialized
cleaning agent. Additionally, we cleaned the covers and blades of the motors using a degreaser
and applied a fresh coat of spray paint to the motor frames to enhance their appearance and
protect against corrosion. Throughout the overhaul process, we conducted essential pre-test
and post-test procedures, specifically continuity and insulation resistance tests. These tests
involved using advanced equipment such as the Fluke 287 True RMS Multimeter for continuity
resistance testing and the Fluke 1550C Insulation resistance tester for insulation resistance
testing. These tests helped us assess the electrical integrity of the motors and identify any
potential issues or faults that needed attention. Apart from the auxiliary motors, we also
dedicated considerable effort to cleaning and testing the main rotor and stator, exicator rotor
and stator, field windings, and the permanent magnet generator of the alternator. This
comprehensive cleaning and testing process ensured that all critical components of the
generator were in optimal condition. In addition, we paid attention to the VT fuses, ensuring
they were thoroughly cleaned and tested to guarantee their effectiveness in protecting the
electrical system from overcurrent situations. Furthermore, we utilized brushes and grinding
machines to remove excessive corrosion and restore the components to their optimal state.
Throughout the overhaul, meticulous documentation was prepared for the radiator motors,
detailing their maintenance history, performance tests, and any necessary repairs or
replacements. This documentation played a vital role in ensuring the generator's ongoing
reliability and facilitating future maintenance activities. In summary, my involvement in the

12
major overhaul of the L10 generator primarily revolved around assisting the electrical team
with the maintenance and servicing of the auxiliary motors and other critical electrical
components. Through a combination of cleaning, testing, and replacement procedures, we
aimed to optimize the generator's performance, reliability, and lifespan, ensuring it would
continue to function at its best.

(a) (b)

(C) (d)

Figure 4. (a) L10 Nigata Generator, (b) bottom radiator frame with the radiator motor and fan blade, (c) stator
winding of the radiator motors and (d) rotor of the radiator motor.

3.4.3. 1000 hours Maintenance Service for Wartsila Generator (L7 & L8)

Assisting the electrical team with L7 and L8 (Wartsila Generator) preventive maintenance for
1000 hours of service is a crucial task that plays a significant role in ensuring the reliable
operation of the generators. Preventive maintenance (PM) service is of utmost importance as it
helps identify and rectify any potential issues before they escalate into major problems,
minimizing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. By conducting regular PM
service, the electrical team can prolong the lifespan of the generators, enhance their efficiency,
and maintain optimal performance. During the maintenance process, one of the primary tasks
performed is the issuance of a Permit to Work (PTW). This involves collaboration between an
electrician and the operators to safely open the circuit breaker of the generators and earth the
generator. This step ensures the safety of all personnel involved and prevents any electrical
hazards during maintenance activities. Prior to commencing work, all team members

13
participating in the task are required to sign in, confirming their involvement and commitment
to following safety protocols. The maintenance work includes thorough cleaning of various
components, such as the alternator. This entails cleaning the main stator and rotor, exciter stator
and rotor, field windings, and the permanent magnet generator (PMG). Cleaning these parts
helps remove dust, debris, and other contaminants that can hinder the generator's performance
or cause overheating. It also allows for the inspection of the components, enabling early
detection of any signs of wear, damage, or potential issues. Additionally, during the
maintenance process, the radiator motor is tong tested using a clamp. This test ensures the
proper functioning of the radiator motor, which plays a critical role in cooling the generator.
By verifying the radiator motor's performance, the team can ensure efficient cooling and
prevent overheating, which can lead to generator malfunctions. In summary, assisting the
electrical team with L7 and L8 preventive maintenance for the Wartsila Generator is essential
for the reliable operation and longevity of the equipment. Conducting regular PM service,
including tasks like cleaning various generator components and testing the radiator motor,
helps maintain optimal performance, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and ensure the safety of
personnel and the generator system as a whole.

(a) (b) (c)

(d) (e) (f)

Figure 5. (a) L7 Wartsila generator, (b) L8 Wartsila generator, (c) main stator, (d) three phase terminals, (e)
exciter stator and VT fuses.

3.4.4. 2000 hours Maintenance Service for MAN Diesel Generator (L2, L3 & L4)

Throughout my attachment, I had the opportunity to assist the electrical team in conducting
comprehensive preventive maintenance (PM) for the MAN Diesel Generator, encompassing
L1, L2, L3, and L4 inspections, ensuring optimal performance for 2000 hours of service. This
critical task directly relates to the company's business as it aims to minimize equipment
downtime, enhance reliability, and safeguard operational efficiency. Preventive maintenance
plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of power generation systems, as it involves
proactive measures to prevent potential failures or malfunctions. By adhering to scheduled
maintenance procedures, we significantly reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and
subsequent costly repairs. Moreover, performing regular PM services helps extend the lifespan

14
of equipment, optimize energy consumption, and maintain compliance with industry
regulations. To execute the PM service effectively, we followed a strict protocol, beginning
with the issuance of a Permit to Work (PTW). As an electrician holding the permit, I
collaborated with the operators to safely open the circuit breaker of the generators and earth
the generator. All personnel involved in the task were required to sign in, indicating their
acknowledgment and commitment to maintaining a safe working environment. The
maintenance activities encompassed various tasks, including the thorough cleaning of the
alternator components such as the main stator and rotor, excitor stator and rotor, field windings,
and permanent magnet generator (PMG). We also performed a tong test on the radiator motor
and ventilation motor using a clamp to ensure their efficient functioning. Additionally, we
cleaned the covers and ventilation ducts, vacuumed the VT fuses, and meticulously checked
the continuity on each phase. Visual inspections were conducted to identify any signs of wear,
corrosion, or damage. Upon completing the PM service, all members involved in the task
signed out, signifying the successful completion of the preventive maintenance. This
comprehensive approach to maintenance not only improves the reliability and performance of
the MAN Diesel Generator but also contributes to the overall operational efficiency and
longevity of the power generation system. By diligently following the PM schedule and
carrying out these vital tasks, we ensure the uninterrupted functioning of the equipment and
minimize the risk of unforeseen downtime, thereby supporting the company's core business
objectives.

(a) (b) (c)

(d) (e) (f)

Figure 6.(a) nearest – L4, L3 and L2 generators, (b) VT fuses, (c) rectifier diodes of the exciter stator, (d) main
stator, (e) exciter stator and (f) permanent magnet generator (PMG).

3.4.5. Solar Plant (1MW)

During my time at the company, I had the opportunity to work closely with the electrical team
on a significant project involving the replacement and installation of a new inverter for a 1MW
solar farm. This task was crucial to ensure the smooth operation of the solar farm and maximize
its energy production. As part of my responsibilities, I assisted in the visual inspections of the
solar farm to identify the specific inverter that required replacement, and then collaborated with

15
the team to carry out the necessary steps for the installation. The first step in the process was
to disconnect the old inverter, which involved carefully disconnecting the AC supply, DC
supply, and communication links. This ensured the safe removal of the old equipment without
causing any disruptions to the rest of the solar farm. After the old inverter was disconnected,
we proceeded with the installation of the new inverter, making sure to connect the AC and DC
supply and reestablish the communication links. Once the physical installation was completed,
the final and critical step was to commission the new inverter. This involved accessing the
operator room back at the Lungga Power Station and utilizing the Sunny Portal software, a
platform that allows for monitoring and controlling the solar farm's operations. Through this
software, we could configure the new inverter and ensure its seamless integration into the
overall system. The work I undertook directly related to the company's business of renewable
energy generation and distribution. By replacing and installing the inverter, we aimed to
enhance the overall efficiency and performance of the solar farm, thus increasing the electricity
output. Additionally, my involvement in the project allowed me to apply my knowledge of
electrical engineering principles and techniques, ensuring that the installation adhered to
industry standards and safety protocols. Overall, my contribution to the replacement of the
inverter in the solar farm played a vital role in maintaining the company's commitment to clean
energy production and furthering advancements in the field of electrical engineering.

(a) (b)

(c)

Figure 7. (a) faulty inverter no.1, (b) AC Supply and (c) DC Supply.

3.4.6. MiCom Relay

At the Kola substation, I successfully completed the task of replacing the faulty MiCom P642
Relay for the second protection of the step-down transformer (33/11kV). This achievement is
crucial for the company's business as it ensures the reliable and safe operation of the substation
and its associated equipment. To carry out the replacement, I followed a meticulous procedure
that involved various steps and tests. Firstly, I tested the new MiCom relay using the Omicron
CMC365 device, which allowed me to conduct trip tests such as Diff trip, LV Ref Trip, HV
OC Trip, HV Ef Trip, CBF Trip, and TC 2 Fail. These tests are vital to ensure the new relay
functions correctly and responds appropriately in different scenarios. In addition to the trip

16
tests, I utilized a Fluke 1662 instrument to perform insulation resistance (IR) tests. This step is
important as it helps identify any potential issues with insulation that could impact the relay's
performance and the overall safety of the transformer. Another crucial aspect of the
replacement process involved identifying the terminal points of the old MiCom relay and
carefully recording them. By cross-checking this information with the circuit diagram, I
ensured accurate transfer of the terminal links to the new MiCom relay. Each terminal point
was then hardwired to the new relay, following industry best practices and standards. To ensure
the correctness of the terminal connections, I meticulously checked each point with the circuit
diagram and compared it to the recorded notes. This thorough verification process minimizes
the risk of errors or misconnections, thus ensuring the reliable operation of the new relay and
the associated protection system. By successfully replacing the faulty MiCom P642 Relay,
conducting necessary tests, and meticulously verifying the terminal connections, I have
contributed to the smooth operation of the step-down transformer and the overall functionality
of the Kola substation. This achievement directly relates to the company's business by
enhancing the reliability of the substation's electrical infrastructure, minimizing downtime, and
ensuring the uninterrupted supply of electricity to customers. It also demonstrates the
company's commitment to maintaining high standards of equipment performance and safety,
which ultimately contributes to customer satisfaction and the company's reputation in the
industry.

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 8. (a) Omicron CMC365, (b) faulty MiCom relay, (c) new MiCom relay and (d) SCADA HMI at Kola
Substation.

3.4.7. Monthly Inspections for Substations Auxiliary DC Supply

During my time at the company, I actively supported the electrical team by assisting with the
monthly battery inspection and tests at multiple substations. These included the Kola
Substation, Ranadi Substation, East Honiara Substation, White River Substation, and Honiara
Substation. The purpose of these tests was to ensure the proper functioning and reliability of
the battery banks, which are crucial for providing a stable power supply to the auxiliary systems
operating at the substations. One of the main tasks I performed was measuring each battery

17
cell's voltage using a Fluke 287 multimeter. This involved connecting the negative probe to the
negative terminal and the positive probe to the positive terminal of each individual cell.
Additionally, I conducted a test to measure the total voltage of the battery bank. For this, I
connected the positive probe of the multimeter to the positive terminal of the first battery cell
and the negative probe to the negative terminal of the last battery cell. In addition to these tests,
I also recorded important parameters from the control panel of the battery banks. These
included rectify output voltage, load voltage, rectify output current, and battery current. All of
these measurements were essential for evaluating the performance of the 110VDC supply that
powered the auxiliary systems at the respective substations. By diligently carrying out these
inspections and tests, I contributed to the overall reliability and efficiency of the company's
electrical infrastructure. Ensuring the proper functioning of the battery banks and auxiliary
systems directly impacts the uninterrupted operation of the substations, which is vital for
maintaining a consistent power supply to the company's customers. My efforts in assisting the
electrical team with these tasks helped in identifying potential issues early on, minimizing
downtime, and ultimately supporting the smooth functioning of the company's business
operations.

(a) (b)

Figure 9. (a) 43 battery cells at the top bank and (b) 43 battery cells at the bottom bank. A total of 86 battery cells
for the 110v dc supply at the East-Honiara Substation.

3.4.8. Monthly Inspections for Power Station Auxiliary DC Supply

Besides the battery checks performed at the Substations, I provided valuable assistance to the
electrical team by conducting monthly battery inspections and tests at the Lungga power
station. Utilizing the Fluke 287 multimeter, I performed various measurements to ensure the
batteries were functioning optimally. One of the tests involved measuring each battery cell
individually by connecting the negative probe of the multimeter to the negative terminal and
the positive probe to the positive terminal. Additionally, I assessed the overall voltage of the
battery bank by connecting the positive probe to the first battery cell's positive terminal and the
negative probe to the negative terminal of the last battery cell. Moreover, I recorded crucial
data such as rectify output voltage, load voltage, rectify output current, and battery current from
the control panel of the battery banks. My contributions directly relate to the company's
business by ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the power station. By conducting these
battery inspections and tests, we can identify any potential issues or deficiencies in the
electrical system. This proactive approach allows us to take corrective measures promptly,
minimizing downtime and ensuring uninterrupted power supply. The tests performed on

18
various voltage supplies, such as the 48VDC supply for L6 (Mirreles Blackstone generator)
controls, 33KV bus, 11 KV bus, 110 VDC supply for Sel relay Protection for Bus 1, 32 VDC
supply for Bus 1 controls, 110 VDC supply for L9 (Mitsubishi generator) controls, 110 VDC
supply for L10 (Nigata generator) controls, 24 VDC supply for AVR of L7 (Wartsila), and 24
VDC supply for AVR of L8 (Wartsila), ensure the smooth operation of critical equipment.
Overall, my diligent work in assisting the electrical team and conducting these essential tests
contributes to the overall efficiency, safety, and reliability of the company's power generation
infrastructure.

(a) (b) (c)

(d) (e) (f)

Figure 10. (a) 110v dc supply for L10, (b) 110v dc supply for L9, (c) 110v dc supply for L7, (d) 48v dc supply for
L6, 33kv and 11kv bus, (e) 24v dc supply for L7 AVR and (f) 32v dc supply for bus 1 controls.

Communications

The communications within the electrical division and the other divisions within the
department and the other departments are very efficient and professional. Communication is
done through email to inform team members of issues or faults reported, and team projects
completed. The team also do 30 minutes catch-up or team meetings every morning to discuss
work to be carried out each day. The language used for communications is English and not the
mother tongue or Solomon pidgin. Communication within the workplace was efficient,
professional and done through emails. The electrical coordinator is the electrical division leader
and every fault within the power plant generation and substations will be reported to him where
he will call for a team meeting to discuss the issue and assign team members to attend to the
fault. Once the issue has been rectified, the team members will send an official report to the
electrical coordinator and he will send an email to all members of the department informing
them that the issue has been resolved and it is safe to work or operate.

Safety

Safety requirements and procedures are always adhered to prevent injuries, fatalities or
accidents. All workers were required to wear safety helmets, safety boots, safety gloves, safety

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eye protection and ear plugs. One safety rule that the whole company stands by is the TAKE 5
rule. This rule is as follows:

 Stop, Step back, Observe

 Walk Through the Task
 Spot the Hazard
 Control & Communicate
 Do the Job Safely

Ethics

The company have morals and ethical behaviour that every staff practice within the workplace.
The company's values are well established by every staff within the department and other
departments.

Teamwork

The whole of Solomon Power functioned as a team, branching out into smaller teams in
different sections. Each section collectively worked efficiently to do what was required of them
to keep the flow of business going. Working in the generation and outstation department, I
learnt how to be independent and also dependent. Independent in that where required, I did
tasks that were assigned to me independently, learning as I went along. Dependent in that I
asked for advice and guidance from the Supervisor and co-workers when I was in doubt. This
boosted my self-confidence and teamwork skills.

Academic preparedness

The educational experience gained at USP helped me in the workplace. The labs gave me a
better understanding of electronic and electrical circuits to carry out fault finding in the case of
faults. There were also soldering and power-related tasks which were easy to carry out since I
learnt them in the labs. Moreover, USP also prepared me for computer literacy which was very
much needed when it came to documentation tasks.

4. Conclusions

In conclusion, my practical attachment at the Solomon Islands Electricity Authority (SIEA),

specifically in the Generation and Outstation Department, provided me with invaluable hands-
on experience in the field of electrical engineering. Throughout the attachment, I was able to
actively contribute to various tasks and projects, working alongside the experienced electrical
team. One significant area of focus was the maintenance and testing of electrical equipment,
including vacuum circuit breakers, generators, solar plants, MiCom relays, and auxiliary power
supplies. I actively participated in the replacement of faulty components, conducted tests and
inspections, and ensured the safe and efficient operation of critical systems. By diligently
following procedures and adhering to safety protocols, I contributed to the overall reliability
and longevity of the company's electrical infrastructure. The efficient communication within
the department and adherence to safety requirements demonstrated the professionalism and
dedication of the team. Regular team meetings and email communication facilitated effective
collaboration and ensured that all team members were informed about ongoing projects and
issue resolutions. The strong emphasis on safety, as exemplified by the TAKE 5 rule, created
a work environment focused on preventing accidents and prioritizing the well-being of

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employees. Furthermore, the ethical standards upheld by the company and the emphasis on
teamwork fostered a positive and supportive work environment. The collective effort of the
entire Solomon Power team, working together as a cohesive unit, enabled the smooth operation
of the company and the successful completion of various tasks. The knowledge and skills
gained through my academic journey at the University of the South Pacific (USP) also played
a vital role in my preparedness for the practical attachment. The theoretical foundation and
practical experience gained during my studies equipped me with the necessary background
knowledge to effectively contribute to the tasks assigned to me. Additionally, the computer
literacy skills developed at USP proved instrumental in carrying out documentation and
reporting tasks. Overall, my practical attachment at SIEA's Generation and Outstation
Department provided me with a valuable opportunity to apply my academic knowledge,
enhance my technical skills, and develop essential workplace competencies. It was a rewarding
experience that deepened my understanding of electrical engineering and prepared me for
future endeavors in the field. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to utilizing this
experience as I embark on my professional journey in the electrical engineering industry.

5. Acknowledgments

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the following:

First and foremost, Almighty God for His divine guidance and blessings throughout my
journey. Furthermore, I am immensely thankful to Solomon Power, the company where I am
currently undertaking my industrial work experience. Their unwavering support, valuable
guidance, and commitment to excellence have played a pivotal role in shaping my professional
growth. I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to the University of the South
Pacific for providing me with the opportunity to enhance my knowledge and skills in the field
of electrical engineering. Lastly, I am indebted to the exceptional members of the electrical
team, whose constant support and supervision have been instrumental in my development. I
am truly grateful for their expertise, patience, and encouragement, which have contributed
significantly to my overall learning experience.

6. Appendix

The information used in this report are my own work and any images or information taken
from another source is acknowledged.

Terence Hyannu Cheon

01st/08/2023

 Attached 1: Evaluation Form

 Attached 2: Attachment Contract from Solomon Power
 Attached 3: Logbook/Electrical Team
 Attached 4: L10 Radiator Motor Procedure
 Attached 5: L10 Vacuum Circuit Breaker Procedure
 Attached 6: L10 Vacuum Circuit Breaker Test

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