Qualus’ New In-House Relay Lab Sets a New Standard for Substation Training
In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, real-world training environments are no longer optional—they’re essential. At Qualus, we developed and constructed a state-of-the-art in-house relay lab at our Lake Mary, Florida headquarters. This advanced facility replicates the complexities of real-world substations, down to every connection, control cabinet, and communication protocol, offering engineers and technicians a hands-on learning environment where they can sharpen their skills and prepare for real-world challenges.
Why Realistic Substation Simulation Matters
As the power grid becomes more digitized and interconnected, the need for hands-on, simulation-based training has never been greater. Our new relay lab was built to close the gap between theory and execution, transforming technical instruction into instinctive action.
Every element of the lab reflects how protection systems behave, not just how they’re designed. From the physical layout to the logic that governs relay interaction, the lab allows users to experience real-time simulation, strategy, and decision-making under pressure.
Inside the Qualus Relay Lab: What Sets It Apart
Designed and constructed by our in-house technical team, the lab mirrors the architecture of a working substation and includes:
- SEL and GE relays across line, bus, and transformer protection panels
- Breaker simulator cabinets wired directly to protection equipment
- A SCADA master panel powered by SEL RTACs for metering, alarms, and status visibility
- IEC 61850 GOOSE messaging to support modern digital substation workflows
This isn’t just a training room—it’s a living, breathing substation ecosystem where relay behavior, SCADA communication, and breaker simulations unfold in real time.
Built for Field Readiness, Open to the Industry
While the lab serves as a foundation for Qualus Bootcamp sessions and advanced relay instruction through the QualU program, the space supports a wide range of learning needs, including client-driven programs, technical seminars, and collaborative sessions with partners across the utility sector.
“Qualus’ in-house relay lab is a valuable resource for the broader power systems community, helping to elevate standards across the industry,” explains Michael Wright, Chief Development Officer. “Trainees can operate relays, simulate breaker trips, and test substation communications exactly as they would in the field. Preparing people for that real-world experience leads to better outcomes for our clients, their customers, and of course, the safety of our people.”
Advancing Grid Reliability Through Real-World Training
At Qualus, we believe that technical excellence starts with the right environment—one that supports every stage of technical development, from early-career technicians refining their fundamentals to seasoned engineers testing advanced schemes. It bridges the gap between classroom concepts and field execution, reflecting both the sophistication of today’s grid and the diversity of professionals who keep it running.
About Qualus
Qualus is a leading pure-play power solutions firm and innovator at the forefront of power infrastructure transformation, with differentiated capabilities across grid modernization, resiliency, security, and sustainability. The firm partners with utilities, commercial, industrial, data center, and government clients, and renewable and energy storage developers, offering comprehensive solutions through boutique and integrated advisory, planning, engineering, digital solutions, program management, and specialized field services. Qualus also provides software and technology enabled services and develops breakthrough solutions for critical power industry challenges such as distributed and variable resource integration, emergency management, and secure data exchange. The firm has over 1,600 professionals, with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada.
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Suzanne Broadbent
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Email: Suzanne.Broadbent@qualuscorp.com