During my time as an Electrical Engineering Intern at WSP, I played a key role in designing both the one-line diagram and physical layout implementation for Bellevue Hospital's emergency power distribution system.
As a part of the critical infrastructure upgrade, I helped define the breaker, switchgear, and routing schematics, all while ensuring compliance with NEC and IEEE standards.
I started by developing the one-line diagram and coordinating the physical layout of the new 480/277 V emergency power distribution. The main challenge on this project was integration: installing automatic transfer switches (ATS), breakers, and new feeder runs while working around lthe prexisting legacy switchgear already in use. As a part of my work, I mapped feeder routes, identified termination points, and detailed bus-to-cable transitions so the upgrades could be phased in with minimal disruption.
Next, I focused on component selection for the protection hardware. I specified breaker frames, trip units, and coordination parameters so the new ATS units and downstream loads could operate seamlessly with the existing switchboard. As a part of this, I verified datasheets, trip curves, and coordination limits to ensure proper fit and compliance with electrical requirements.
Along with this work, I preformed fault current calculations for each outgoing feeder from the main switchboard. These short-circuit studies allowed us to verify that the devices we selected would seemlessly integrate with the rest of our system.
Lastly, I worked with architectural and mechanical teams to align enclosure footprints, HVAC clearances, and cable pathways. I updated the switchboard's net labeling, creating clear traceability from each new feeder and spare back to its origin point. This ensured the installation could be implemented cleanly and the system maintained with confidence.
The final deliverables included a one-line diagram and coordinated physical layout that integrated new ATS units, breakers, and feeder runs into the existing 480/277 V switchboard.
The design ensured breaker coordination with NEC/IEEE compliance and maintained continuous service to life-safety loads. Through fault calculations and datasheet checks, I verified component ratings and resolved reliability concerns, strengthening the hospital’s backup power system.
After review and approval by senior engineers, the design is slated for implementation in early 2026.
