SKM Power*Tools for Windows (PTW) Version 11, developed by SKM Systems Analysis, Inc., is a comprehensive suite of electrical engineering software designed for power system design and analysis. Widely used by engineers globally since 1972, it supports applications in industries such as commercial, industrial, utility, and petrochemical sectors. The software integrates interactive graphics, rigorous calculations, and a robust database to streamline tasks like fault calculations, load flow, coordination, arc flash hazard analysis, motor starting, transient stability, harmonics, grounding, and cable pulling. Its modular design allows users to select specific study modules, all built on a common database for seamless data exchange. Key features include one-line diagram creation, customizable data visualization through Datablocks, and compatibility with third-party software like AutoCAD and Microsoft Office.
New Features in Version 11
Version 11.0 introduces significant enhancements, with updates detailed across releases up to 11.0.0.6 (as of May 2024). Below are the key new features and improvements:
Lithium-Ion Battery Model (11.0.0.0)
Added support for modeling lithium-ion batteries in DC Systems Analysis and Arc Flash Evaluation studies.
Includes library integration for sharing battery models across projects, enhancing DC system analysis capabilities.
NFPA 70E 2024 Arc Flash Evaluation Updates (11.0.0.0)
Updated arc flash evaluation to comply with the latest NFPA 70E 2024 standards, ensuring accurate incident energy and PPE calculations.
Improved Auto Coordination and Evaluation Reporting (11.0.0.2)
Enhanced reporting for Auto Coordination & Evaluation, making it easier to identify coordination and protection issues instantly.
Arc Flash Evaluation Enhancements
Restricted Approach Reporting (11.0.0.2): Improved accuracy when applying altitude correction.
Recalculate Trip Time Option (11.0.0.2): Better handling of trip time recalculations for precise arc flash results.
Spreadsheet Export Sorting (11.0.0.4): Improved sorting functionality for arc flash evaluation exports.
Flash Boundary Reporting (11.0.0.4): Enhanced reporting in Detail View for Worst Case Scenario options.
NESC Arc Flash Evaluation (11.0.0.6): Uses 3P fault current for bolted fault calculations in medium voltage live-front HCB equipment, with new NESC16 note.
Data Visualizer Improvements (11.0.0.6)
Optimized operation when comparing scenario differences, improving usability for complex projects.
Library Enhancements (11.0.0.6)
Expanded protective device library with updated settings and specifications.
Improved library selection viewable area for protective devices, streamlining component selection. Refer to “Readme V11.0 Lib Changes.pdf” for details.
Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable Support (11.0.0.3 & 11.0.0.4)
Updated software to support Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable 2015-2022, fixing migration issues and ensuring compatibility with modern Windows systems.
General Usability Improvements
Enhanced keyboard shortcuts for user interface menus (11.0.0.2).
Improved Crystal Report formatting for Comprehensive Short Circuit Input reports (11.0.0.2).
Fixed Arc Flash Evaluation table sorting issues during printing (11.0.0.2).
Enhanced Failed Input Evaluation flagging for VFD components (11.0.0.2).
