Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is the refurbishment of the Sentrarand Main Intake Distribution Substations, ensuring the upgrade and maintenance of electrical infrastructure in accordance with specified standards and safety regulations. The project aims to deliver a safe, reliable, and compliant electrical substation that meets Transnet's operational requirements and safety standards.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Refurbishment and upgrade of indoor, medium voltage metal-enclosed switchgear and control gear in accordance with IEC 62271-200.
• Installation and testing of high-voltage switchgear, protection relays, instruments, and associated control systems.
• Provision of all necessary equipment, tools, spares, and protective devices as specified.
• Site preparation, excavation, shoring, drainage, and ensuring safety during construction activities near railway lines and high-voltage equipment.
• Compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards, including working near live electrical equipment and railway lines.
• Coordination with Transnet's project management and adherence to site-specific conditions and regulations.

Technical Requirements

• Design, manufacture, and testing of switchgear and control gear in accordance with IEC standards (IEC 62271 series, IEC 60044, IEC 61000, etc.) and South African standards (SANS).
• Use of vacuum interrupters in circuit breakers, with specified ratings and testing certificates.
• Installation of protective relays, energy meters, current and voltage transformers, with specified accuracy classes and testing requirements.
• Provision of remote control, alarm systems, arc/flash protection, and interlocking mechanisms as per specifications.
• Adherence to safety protocols for working near high-voltage equipment, including permits, barriers, and PPE.
• Proper grounding, earthing, and insulation measures to ensure safety and equipment reliability.
• Site-specific conditions such as working near railway lines, underground services, and environmental considerations (wet soil, underground water, slippery conditions).

Skills and Skills Requirements

The tender requires the following skills and qualifications from the contractor and key personnel:

• Qualified electrical engineers with PrEng and PrCM or PMP registrations, with experience in high-voltage switchgear and protection systems.
• Skilled electricians with electrical trade tests, high voltage safety training, and relevant experience in electrical installation and commissioning.
• Project management personnel with recognized qualifications (PrEng, PrCM, PMP) and experience in large-scale electrical refurbishment projects.
• Technical team capable of designing, installing, testing, and commissioning medium voltage switchgear, protection relays, and control systems.
• Experience in working near railway lines, underground services, and high-voltage electrical environments, with appropriate safety certifications.
• Ability to prepare detailed work programs, safety plans, and quality assurance documentation.
• Knowledge of relevant standards (IEC, SANS) and safety regulations, including working near live electrical equipment and railway infrastructure.
• Capacity to manage site logistics, environmental conditions, and coordination with Transnet’s project team.