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Weather-related or other types of faults can negatively impact the continuity of the electricity delivery to the consumers and, thus, lead to poorer reliability scores. 90% of customer outage-minutes are due to events which affect local distribution systems. The radial configuration is simple and has a low cost design; however, when a fault occurs it often causes power outages beyond the location of the fault itself. Therefore, it is beneficial for utilities to automatically isolate the fault and, thus, restore power to as many consumers as possible. The benefits of fault isolation and service restoration include, but are not limited to: enhanced reliability and resiliency, reduced loss of revenue to the utility, and enhanced comfort and satisfaction for the utility’s consumers. This paper provides an algorithm to quickly isolate a fault and automatically restore power to as many nodes of the distribution system as possible by opening and closing switches already placed within the system. The expert model and centralized algorithm that are proposed in this paper guarantee an optimal solution and a short run-time regardless of the size of the distribution system. A mathematical proof of the optimal nature of the solution is provided. In addition, the model is validated in practice, solving two different-sized systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an accurate impedance model for line commutated converter (LCC) in the stationary frame. The commutation overlap process caused by the transformer leakage inductance complicates the modeling for LCC. Traditional impedance models are derived in positive sequence and negative sequence frame based on the simplified commutation overlap process, which degrades the modeling accuracy and limits the description of frequency coupling. This paper systematically analyzes the effects of the commutation overlap process on the impedance model, and the impedance model with the accurate commutation overlap process is established in the dq-frame. For clearly revealing the frequency coupling phenomenon of the LCC, the complex space vector is employed to extend the impedance model in the dq-frame to the complex αβ-frame. A closed-loop model on PSCAD/EMTDC is used to verify the proposed impedance model in the time-domain and the frequency-domain. The consistency between the simulation results and theoretical analysis effectively verifies the accuracy of the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper highlights an immediate need for renewable generation developers, manufacturers, utilities and industry standardization institutes to jointly address a challenge of capacitor switching transient immunity in inverter-based wind or solar farms. The need was identified from wide-area operation records which showed partial or full generation loss in coincidence with routine utility-owned capacitor switching. The lack of a clear industry guideline has caused confusion to all involved parties. This paper recommends all entities to address this challenge collaboratively through enhanced equipment specification, design, and test before a well-defined industry guideline becomes available. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents an FPGA-based Digital Real-Time Simulation (DRTS) environment for the analysis of Electromagnetic Transients (EMTs) of power systems that include multiple Power Electronic Converters (PECs). The main features of the proposed DRTS platform are that it i) employs two-value resistor switch model for PECs and thus avoids inaccuracies of Associate Discrete Circuit (ADC) model and ii) does not require separation of PECs by transmission lines (stub lines) and thus accurately represents PECs in close electrical proximity of each other. These features respectively result in a time-variant and large system admittance matrix which significantly increases the computation burden in each simulation time-step and can render it infeasible for real-time applications. To overcome this problem this paper introduces i) Switching-Network Partitioning (SNP) method which is tailored for PECs representation in FPGA and ii) Reformulated Modified Nodal Analysis (RMNA) method to enable computational parallelism between the solution of network and component models in FPGA. SNP enables solution-level partitioning of the PECs and the rest of the system. The developed DRTS platform enables sub-microsecond simulation time-step and provides a fixed hardware irrespective of the system configuration. Performance of the platform is evaluated for a study system and verified versus off-line simulation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degradation of the electrical contact in a gas insulated switchgear (GIS) is closely related to overheating at the contact. However, the disconnector contact is one of the hot contacts in GIS. Therefore, in this paper, the finite element method was used to solve the three-dimensional multiphysics coupling temperature rise field and flow field in the Single Phase in One Tank (SPIOT) type GIS disconnector under different operating conditions. From the perspective of temperature rise field and flow field, this paper analyzed the temperature rise characteristics under different working conditions and explored the feasibility of the direct application of air, CO2 and C4F7N/CO2 mixed gas to an electrical device. The disconnector temperature rise experiment platform was then built to verify the simulation. The results showed that the temperature rise field and the flow field distribution were similar in four gas environments. SF6 gas had the smallest temperature rise, followed by C4F7N/CO2 mixed gas, and the temperature rise of CO2 and air was relatively large. Therefore, from the perspective of the temperature rise field and flow field, it was feasible to directly apply C4F7N/CO2 mixed gas to an electrical device in order to meet insulation requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the possibilities of reducing emergency situations and reducing the time of failure in the power grid. The paper contains a detailed description of the method (algorithm) of operation in emergency situations on the example of a Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS) located in one of the system-forming (node) stations in the power grid. The level of detail contained in this paper, which has not been previously encountered in previous publications, favors an in-depth understanding of the possible solutions that result from these emergencies. The above method (algorithm) of activities has been developed based on three levels of research: simulation, theoretical and practical. This means that the simulation analysis that was performed based on theoretical information was experimentally tested as part of an emergency situation in one of the system-forming (nodal) stations in the power system. In order to achieve the result described in this article, one of the most promising types of devices used in power systems was selected - the GIS. This has been confirmed by numerous analyzes of the effectiveness of these devices included in this article. The paper contains a detailed description of the individual steps in the field of corrective actions and aimed at minimizing downtime. In addition, this article provides guidance to monitor possible emergencies that are designed to increase the reliability of the power grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the conventional sliding mode control, the four-leg distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM) currents are controlled based on a current error in each phase. However, the four currents in a four-wire system can not be independently controlled variables and hence one of the four controllers is redundant in conventional schemes. Further, the current dynamics of a DSTATCOM converter are coupled through converter pole voltages in the natural reference frame. This leads to cross-coupling in the sliding variable equations with respect to four manipulated input variables. Considering the above points, in this paper, the current due to Thevenin’s equivalent load neutral-point voltage is considered as a fourth independent controlled variable and the corresponding system dynamic equations are presented. To get a decoupled feature, a new sliding surface function is structured. The performance of a DSTATCOM with the proposed control scheme under various operating conditions is validated through a detailed simulation study and experimental results, obtained from a laboratory prototype of four-leg DSTATCOM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper summarizes the work performed by the Task Force —within Performance Characteristic Subcommittee of IEEE PES Transformers Committee— to investigate potential revisions to IEEE Std C57.142-2010. Although the scope of this document does not implicitly exclude HV and EHV systems, the existing document primarily includes examples and information on distribution voltage systems. A Task Force was formed to investigate the need to include information about power system transient events on HV systems more explicitly in this existing document. The Task Force was charged with the following tasks:-Establish system voltages encompassed by C57-142-2010 Guide. -Gather field data, reports, and literature on HV and EHV failures related to substation transients and transformer interaction. -Solicit input from the other technical committees on this subject. -Review IEC and CIGRE work in this area. -Recommend course of action on revision of the present Guide. -Recommend high level changes to the Guide. -Prepare final paper for the Subcommittee. In the course of this work several failure scenarios were identified. These are categorized and the failures are described in this paper. The final recommendations to the Subcommittee are summarized and recommendations are presented for the course of action on the revision/addition of HV and EHV material to the current C57.142 Guide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hybrid modular multilevel converter (HMMC), consisting of half-bridge and full-bridge submodules (SMs), has become a competitive topology due to the DC fault ride-through capability (FRTC). Redundancy schemes need to be employed to improve the reliability, including fixed-level and voltage-sharing active schemes, as well as passive scheme. However, different schemes affect reliability differently, which entails specific models. The contributions of this paper involve that analytical reliability models of HMMCs are proposed with considerations of voltage stress in active scheme, as well as imperfect bypass switch in passive scheme, and the comparison of different schemes is conducted to help the redundancy design. The reliability of HMMCs is divided into basic and extra components by the requirement of FRTC, which are modeled through the Markov chain and iteration method. A case study is conducted to validate the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed models, and the reliability analysis is presented, together with comparisons of different redundancy schemes. The results illustrate that reliability improvements of both fixed-level mode and passive scheme are prone to suffer saturation effect with the increase of redundant half-bridge SMs, which may even cause reliability decline in voltage-sharing mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents frequency domain (FD) Norton-type equivalents of single- and three-phase photovoltaic (PV) generators, aimed at transient calculations. The proposed equivalents can be interfaced with a general frequency-dependent network and/or nonlinear loads and include voltage/current sources representing initial conditions aimed at partitioned-time transient simulation. The transient solution is performed via the numerical Laplace transform (NLT) in a sequential scheme by using time sub-windows with corresponding initial conditions and using reduced number of samples. The proposed approach overcomes the issue of computationally heavy simulations as in classical implementations of NLT. Two case studies involving PV generator and nonlinear load are presented to illustrate the performance of the proposed FD PV models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To calibrate non-contact sensors with fast response and high scale factor, it is critical to develop step pulse generators capable of generating standard high voltage step pulses and accurately measuring the generated waveform. In this paper, two types of step pulse generators are designed with output voltages of 2 kV and 100 kV. The 2 kV step pulse generator can generate a step pulse with a rise time of ∼300 ps and an adjustable pulse width. A step pulse with a rise time less than 5 ns and a pulse width over 1 μs can be generated with the 100 kV step pulse generator. The uncertainty of 2 kV step pulse generator is then analyzed by simulations and experiments. Finally, a performance comparison with step pulse generators in previous studies is carried out. Bandwidth, linearity and repeatability of the sensors can be verified with the designed two step pulse generators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety of converters is key to the stable operation of AC/DC hybrid power grids after AC faults. Thyristor valve current is a direct manifestation of the converter observability, but there are no measuring elements inside the converter, so the thyristor valve current can be reflected only indirectly through external electrical quantities. This paper proposes a virtual measurement scheme based on the temporal features of the converter terminal current. First, under the action of the trigger pulse, the polarity characteristics of the AC current and temporal features between the valves are utilized to predictive estimate the valve state. Then, when commutation failures occur and the bypass paths form, the conduction state of valve is constructed based on the relationship between AC and DC current. Last, when the valve is to be shut-off in the bypass path, the blocking state of the valve is corrected based on the unidirectional conductance characteristics of the valve. According to the above analysis, combined with the topological current equation of the converter, the valve current can be calculated in the whole process. Through the simulation of the different valve states and bypass paths and analysis of the field record data, the results show that the valve current can still be accurately calculated based on the virtual measurement scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most microgrid protection schemes found in published literature suffer from a lack of generality in that they work well for the assumed topology, including type and placement of sources. Other generic protection schemes tend to be too complicated, too expensive, or both. To overcome these drawbacks, a topology-agnostic, scalable, and cost-aware protection based on fundamental principles that work in the presence of high penetration of inverter-based resources (IBRs) is developed and tested in this paper. The protection system also implements stable automatic reconfiguration of the healthy sections of the system after clearance of fault, thus increasing resilience by self-healing. To achieve this ambitious goal, stable inverter models are developed that operate in unbalanced networks in grid-connected and islanded modes, even with 100% IBRs, share power without conflicting controls, and can ride through faults while limiting fault currents. The scheme is tested for primary and backup protection and reconfiguration on the IEEE 123-node feeder in grid-connected and islanded modes with 15 IBRs connected to the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage source converters (VSCs) have been extensively used in power systems for interfacing renewable energies and other modern loads. Because of their nonlinear nature, a proper harmonic model of VSC devices must be established when conducting harmonic analyses in power systems. This is especially true for low-order harmonics, which are routinely encountered in present power systems. To this end, an analytical harmonic model that represents the low-order harmonic characteristics of VSCs is developed in this paper. The new model takes both the control loop and power loop (i.e., DC-link capacitor) of the VSC into account through rigorous mathematical derivations. The final result has shown that the VSC can be represented by a harmonically coupled impedance matrix at harmonic frequencies, which can be easily used for harmonic analyses of large-scale power systems. It also shows that the DC-link capacitor has a more noticeable impact on the harmonic impedance of VSCs with a smaller DC-link capacitance and low-order harmonics. The appropriateness of the new model was verified using EMT simulations and lab experiments. A complete procedure to construct the proposed VSC model is also established based on the research findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a sound separation methodology based on deep learning neural network (DLNN) to extract useful diagnostic material in non-invasive audio-based On-Load Tap Changer (OLTC) diagnostics. The proposed methodology has been experimentally verified on both artificial mixtures (created by reproducing the targeted data by the speakers placed next to the active transformers) and actual mixtures (recorded by the microphone during OLTC live operation in the field). The results show that the method produces high-quality estimates (correlation to referent fingerprints $\rho > 0.9$) compared to other sound separation methods, e.g. Independent Component Analysis (ICA). The proposed framework can also perform source separation from a monaural mixture (mixture recorded with a single microphone only), which is impossible for ICA methods. Moreover, the results show that DLNN trained with healthy OLTC data produces diagnostically valuable estimates even when fed with a faulty OLTC audio mixture. For that reason, once trained, the DLNN can produce the diagnostic signal estimates from monaural mixtures that can be used with existing vibration-based diagnostic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Line-commutated converters are extensively used as the interface between ac grids and classic HVDC systems. At the inverter side, commutation failure of switches is one of the most common faults that can pose threats to the system operation. Practical and reliable study of such phenomena relies on accurate and efficient converter models for simulations. Recently, a parametric average-value model (PAVM) has been presented for ac–dc rectifiers, which considers the internal faults of the converter. In this paper, the PAVM methodology is extended to the dc–ac inverter systems, including the commutation failure of switches. The proposed PAVM also augments an automatic fault detection technique to determine the faulty switches. Using comprehensive simulation studies, the developed model is verified to accurately predict the commutation failure of switches and reconstruct the waveforms consistent with the detailed switching models of inverters while being computationally more efficient. The proposed PAVM is envisioned to be an efficient and accurate asset for simulation of HVDC systems and inevitable when faults of switches need to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging of power system assets challenges utilities to maintain reliable service while minimizing their maintenance costs. Although malfunction of devices in the transmission or distribution networks can have catastrophic consequences, their failure is seldom unforeseen. Typically, the device aging occurs gradually over time until its health condition reaches a point of complete breakdown. The overall objective of this paper is to devise a non-invasive, online condition monitoring technique of circuit switchers for shunt capacitor banks. It aims to detect abnormal operation of these devices based on features derived from raw voltage and current waveforms, such that a predictive maintenance strategy may be employed before a complete failure occurs. The data analyzed in this paper are collected at a transmission capacitor bus, where the banks are equipped with pre-insertion impedance. Through a baseline range of values for selected parameters, the proposed technique is able to detect missing pre-insertion impedance during the capacitor energizing and failure of pre-insertion impedance switch out a few cycles after the energizing operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the effects of shunt capacitors installed on the low voltage sides of 10/0.4 kV distribution transformers on the operation of these transformers. Using the results of an extensive measurement campaign, this paper compares: real and reactive power losses, secondary-side current, and primary-side apparent power before and after the installation of transformer capacitors. The following four cases of reactive power compensation are considered and discussed: adequate, conditionally adequate, and total compensation, as well as overcompensation. The presented analysis helps to identify transformer substations where the initial compensation should be changed or adjusted, in order to improve transformers’ operational performance. Voltage dependencies of real and reactive power demands of the transformer-supplied loads are taken into account, based on the previously identified load characteristics in the considered networks as well as voltage dependence of reactive power of shunt capacitors. The result with and without including these voltage dependencies in the analysis is compared and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces an averaging control strategy of the phase-unit losses of modular multilevel converters (MMCs). The quantitative analysis of the MMC phase-unit loss distribution under unbalanced ac conditions is carried out by investigating the individual component of the MMC arm currents. It shows that the unbalanced arm currents will result in unbalanced phase-unit losses. To address this issue, this paper proposes a predictive closed-loop-control-based zero-sequence voltage injection method that results in much averaged loss distribution under unbalanced ac conditions. The essence of the new method is that it adjusts the three-phase sinusoidal references so that the unbalanced arm currents are fully utilized to average phase-unit losses. This paper shows the effectiveness of the new approach by electromagnetic transient simulations on PSCAD/EMTDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A parallel hybrid modular multilevel converter (PHMMC) belongs to the class of modular multilevel converters, which have become potential candidates for high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) transmission systems. Due to the circuit topology of a PHMMC, the dc bus voltage contains low-order harmonics and cannot be fully regulated at a constant dc voltage. The dc bus voltage, if not properly controlled, leads to improper power transfer and increases the magnitude of dc current ripple on the dc transmission line. This paper proposes a zero-sequence voltage injection (ZSVI)-based model predictive control (MPC) strategy to control the dc current/power flow and simultaneously minimize the dc current ripple. The proposed strategy takes advantage of a cost function minimization technique to determine and inject the optimal zero-sequence voltage components into the dc- bus voltage of a PHMMC system. This paper derives a discrete-time dynamic model of the dc transmission-line current and, correspondingly, develops a predictive model. The predictive model is used to inject the appropriate amount of zero-sequence voltage components to the dc bus reference voltage waveform. Compared with the existing triplen harmonics injection method, the proposed ZSVI-MPC strategy improves the performance of a PHMMC system in terms of minimization of the dc current/voltage ripple. Performance of the proposed strategy for a 21-level PHMMC-based HVDC station system is evaluated based on time-domain simulation studies in the PSCAD/EMTDC software environment. The reported results demonstrate superior performance of the PHMMC-HVDC station operating based on the proposed ZSVI-MPC strategy, under various operating conditions, as opposed to the existing triplen harmonics injection method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the applicability of averaged-value models (AVMs) for modular multilevel converters (MMCs) operating in a voltage-sourced converter-based-high-voltage dc (VSC-HVDC) grid. The AVM models are benchmarked by comparison with a detailed electromagnetic transient model of the grid, including a fully detailed MMC model. Analysis results show that the AVM is only effective as long as the capacitors are large enough to maintain nearly constant voltage across each MMC submodule. This paper also shows that previously developed MMC averaged models are not able to accurately simulate the transients under dc fault conditions. This paper introduces topology changes to a previously proposed averaged model that results in much improved simulation for such conditions. This paper also shows that the model can be used effectively to study HVDC grids with significant time savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On transmission lines where switching surges are not mitigated with closing resistors and/or surge arresters, high-speed reclosing on a line with trapped charge will produce high overvoltages that have been measured above 3 p.u. Careful simulations of these switching events using available electromagnetic transient (EMT) programs consistently produce significantly higher voltages than the measurements. This indicates a phenomenon present on the line that acts to reduce the switching surge magnitudes but is not typically modeled. This paper aims to identify the required simulation practices in reproducing the field measured overvoltages in EMT simulations and investigates the sensitivity of results to modeling approaches and electrical parameters. Field measurements from a switching surge test of a 230-kV line without surge mitigation have been used for model comparisons. Variations in frequency-dependent line modeling, ground resistivity, skin effect, shunt conductance, parallel lines, and source-side detail have been tested in an unsuccessful attempt to decrease the difference between the field measurements and the higher simulation overvoltages. It is demonstrated that even though the pattern of the transient voltage waveforms can be reproduced very well using frequency-dependent line models, the magnitude of the maximum overvoltage is significantly overestimated unless the effect of corona is considered. Two types of corona models are tested, and both demonstrate that corona is the primary factor that allows the simulations to correctly reproduce high peak overvoltage measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the work carried out by the IEEE Working Grou[ on field-measured overvoltages and their analysis for validating power system component models to be used in switching transients studies. The work uses measurement data obtained from field tests performed by Bonneville Power Administration in June 1995 where switching overvoltages were measured on one of its 230 kV lines. This paper includes a description of the switching tests and the main results derived from field measurements. Details of the switching procedures that were followed to calibrate component models used to match field-recorded waveforms can be found in the Part II paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the Multilevel Current Source Converter (MCSC) STATCOM. It proposes a new method of modulation. The new modulation method produces less THD and di/dt at the terminals of the MCSC STATCOM when compared to the widely used Phase-Shifted Carrier SPWM (PSC-SPWM). To ensure the inductors' currents remain balanced, a Current Balancing Algorithm (CBA) is presented. The CBA does not require any controls. It relies on assigning optimum switching states to each CSC module in real-time. In addition, two control strategies are presented in this paper. The first one assumes the STATCOM to be a SISO. Therefore, it only requires one PI controller. However, the gains for the controller must be changed if the STATCOM was to transition from capacitive mode to inductive mode, or vice versa. The second control strategy overcomes this problem by implementing a TITO integral state feedback controller. The contributions of this paper are validated via simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an adaptive model of modular multilevel converter (MMC) for electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations. The model is applicable to MMCs with arbitrary numbers of half-bridge and full-bridge submodules. The proposed design includes average value model, arm equivalent model, and detailed equivalent model. It allows smoothly transitioning from one model to another during time-domain simulations depending on the desired accuracy and execution time constraints. Modifications required in conventional MMC models to achieve smooth transitions are presented in the paper. Time-domain initialization methods are developed for each constituting model, including initialization of the appropriate control system blocks. Validity and effectiveness of the proposed adaptive model is demonstrated using EMT simulations of 401-level MMC-HVDC system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of reduction in the terminal voltage of a grid-tied inverter together with minimization in total harmonic distortion (THD) of terminal voltage and current, in the presence of dead-band in the switching remains always challenging for the researchers. With high switching frequency, this issue increases by many folds. The grid-tied inverter used for harmonic compensation acts as a shunt active power filter (SAPF). The implementation of the dead-band elimination technique is based on output current polarity detection, suffers from multiple zero-crossing due to the generation of high frequency switching harmonics during SAPF operation. This paper deals with a dead band elimination methodology together with harmonic compensation using SAPF under non-linear and unbalanced loading conditions. Here, SAPF uses a dual fundamental component extraction (DFCE) scheme with modified complex coefficient filter (MCCF) to extract fundamental components for reference current generation to implement an indirect current control PWM scheme. MCCF extracts fundamental components even in the presence of dc offset and unbalancing at the input. For incorporating dead-band elimination in control, exact polarity detection is done separately through SAPF output current estimation using sensed load current, and modified CCF computed reference source current. Since the estimated SAPF output current contains no high-frequency switching harmonics, the dead-band elimination technique can be correctly implemented. To synchronize the zero-crossing of the estimated and actual SAPF current, an adaptive delay control is used. The proposed MCCF based control logic’s performance together with the dead-band elimination technique is validated for SAPF operating under non-linear, unbalance, and dynamic load conditions. The proposed dead-band elimination scheme based SAPF model is developed and simulated using MATLAB/ SIMULINK. The simulation results show a significant reduction in source current harmonics due to the elimination of odd harmonic injection into the system by incorporating dead-band elimination in SAPF operation. The real-time simulation of the proposed method is also validated using OPAL-RT OP4510 real-time platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The missing capability of DC fault current limitation is an inherent disadvantage in the typical half-bridge modular multilevel converter (MMC), which restricts its application in long-distance high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems. The full-bridge submodule (FBSM) and clamped double submodule (CDSM) topologies allow for fault current self-clearing, but also suffer from additional hardware cost and power losses. In this paper, an improved submodule topology utilizing the new reverse-blocking insulated gate bipolar transistor (RB-IGBT) is proposed to improve system economy without compromising its performance. The operating principles and DC fault characteristics of the proposed topology are analyzed in details, including comparison with various topologies in terms of cost, losses, fault current clearing speed and thermal. Compared with the traditional CDSM topology, the proposed RBSM can clear DC faults faster with reduced cost of switching devices. A DC fault protection strategy for MMC-HVDC system is also presented. Simulation results under normal operating, permanent and transient fault conditions are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed topology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel oscillation wave test system (OWTS) to detect the partial discharge (PD) of mounting defects in power cable insulation. In the proposed system, a charging capacitor is added to the circuit topology based on the traditional OWTS. The charging capacitor is charged to the desired voltage by a high-voltage DC power source. After the charging process, the test cable sample is charged by the capacitor. The resonant circuit is formed by the charging capacitor, the test cable, and the resonant reactor to create an oscillating decay voltage. With this novel method, no space charge is injected into the cable insulation. The effect of the charging capacitance on the charging efficiency is calculated with the Multisim software. This paper describes the working principle and the assembly of a laboratory prototype for the PD detection of a 500 m cable circuit. The test results show the feasibility of the novel OWTS method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of operating distributed generation (DG) in islanded mode brings several benefits but still faces some problems, especially related to the transition from a grid-connected to an islanded operating condition. When connected to the main grid, DG units operate in PQ mode. During this transition, their controls must be changed to regulate frequency and voltage. The delay for islanding detection, associated with abrupt changes in the control references, may result in large and detrimental transients. This paper proposes a new control structure for a distributed synchronous generator (DSG) to allow a smooth transition from the grid-connected to the islanded operation mode. The proposed control structure uses a compensation loop that was conceived based on the main ideas of the anti-windup bumpless transfer (AWBT) theory (although it is not, strictly speaking, an AWBT controller). The results show that the proposed structure ensures smaller excursions of the DSG variables during the transition and, therefore, the possibility of a successful formation of the islanded system is extended to a wider range of operating conditions. Moreover, with the proposed control, the success of this transition does not depend on the islanding detection time, which is the main contribution of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing number of offshore wind farms are connected to the public grid with large-scale HVDC links. The electrical transients caused by the energization of the export transformers appear more significant in the converter-driven offshore AC grid with low short-circuit power, than in direct AC grid connections. This may lead to a violation of the 2% voltage dip criterion, thus seriously affecting the production of neighboring wind farms. Additionally, the transformer and the entire insulation system are exposed to mechanical and dielectric stress. This paper investigates the influence of three factors, namely excitation, switching angle, and remnant core magnetization, onto the inrush current. Electromagnetic transient simulations and field measurements show that with a smart use of the on load tap changer, point on wave switching, and a demagnetization of the core by a cable-shunt swing circuit, the three factors above can be used as degrees-of-freedom to effectively mitigate the inrush current phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This two-part paper presents a method to mitigate half-cycle saturation of transformers caused by monopolar operation of neighboring HVDC transmission lines while keeping the ability to detect the zero-sequence fault currents (ZSFC) when ground faults occur. Part I of this paper has presented the mitigation principles and device design of the proposed neutral current blocking switch. In Part II, the performance of the proposed method to permit the circulation of zero-sequence current is investigated. An operation strategy is proposed that simultaneously allows the mitigation of half-cycle saturation and the detection of ZSFC. Simulations on a widely-used 500 kV system show that the proposed mitigation technique, using a sub-synchronous switching frequency (no higher than 30 Hz), can effectively mitigate the half-cycle saturation while allowing the circulation of ZSFC. The novel mitigation method exploits the characteristic differences between half-cycle saturation (dc) and asymmetric faults (ac). The method provides an implementable solution to the dc-bias phenomenon because it delivers concurrently dc-bias mitigation, minimal impact on ground fault detection, and no switching stresses on the power electronic switches. The proposed technique can also be applied to the mitigation of geomagnetically induced currents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new multilevel cascaded-type dynamic voltage restorer (MCDVR) with a fault current-limiting function. This topology can operate in two operational modes: 1) a compensation mode for voltage fluctuations and unbalances and 2) short-circuit current-limiting mode. The current-limiting function of the MCDVR is performed by activating antiparallel thyristors during the short-circuit fault, and deactivating them during normal operation. The mathematical model of the MCDVR system is also established in this paper. The control scheme design and optimal parameter selection are outlined based on the detailed theoretical analysis of the converter. The transient states of the MCDVR in the compensation mode and current-limiting mode are also analyzed. Simulation results based on the PSCAD/EMTDC software, and experimental results on a laboratory setup help to validate the proposed topology and the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the analysis of possible transient overvoltages that can be generated during vacuum circuit-breaker (VCB) operation at the connection point of a photovoltaic powerplant. A typical switching event that is related to the VCB concerns energization and de-energization of the unloaded transformer. However, at the typical photovoltaic powerplant, the transformer is fed by an inverter equipped with LC (or LCL) filters that are necessary for limitation of harmonics and ripple in voltage and current. From the point of view of switching operations, the inductance and capacitance of the low-voltage (LV)-side connected filter affect the natural frequency of the transformer, which is reflected by different transient system response during VCB operation. In this paper, laboratory measurement of overvoltages generated during distribution transformer switching by means of VCBs is analyzed. The impact of the LC filter connected at the LV side on the overvoltages suppression was studied. Electromagnetic Transients Program–Alternative Transients Program simulations were conducted in order to verify the possibility of transients elimination by means of the additional series-connected RL choke at the transformer medium-voltage side. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper develops a simplified phasor model for predicting harmonics present at the point of common coupling between a voltage-source power converter and the utility network. It employs the frequency coupling matrix (FCM) modeling technique. The FCM is experimentally determined without requiring access to converter internal details, such as control and output filter parameters, which are generally not available for converters used in distributed generation systems. Experimental measurements are conducted on a commercially available two-stage, three phase, grid-tied photovoltaic inverter to assess the accuracy of experimentally determined FCMs to predict the harmonic behavior of grid-connected converters. This paper considers two grid conditions for the experimental analysis: 1) when the grid is stiff and contains only background voltage harmonics and 2) when the grid contains harmonic grid impedances as well as background voltage harmonics. In all cases, a close match between the results predicted by the FCM approach and experimental measurements is achieved, thus demonstrating the practical viability of using experimentally determined FCM models for harmonic predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents application guidelines for a new generic plant controller model that can be used for renewable plant dynamic system analysis that may include the control of static compensators (STATCOMs), static var compensators (SVCs), and/or energy storage devices. The authors originally presented the need for such a model to the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) and contributed to various stages of the new model development led by WECC. As Independent System Operators (ISOs)/Regional Reliability Organizations (RTOs)/Transmission Service Providers (TSPs) are moving toward acceptance and use of generic models only the authors have for the first time applied this new model for an operating renewable plant. The new model was configured, parameterized, and tuned to control two STATCOMs and multiple switched capacitors/reactors to represent a master/auxiliary control strategy as implemented in the plant. Dynamic simulations show that the configured and parameterized model is performing properly as expected. This tuned model was submitted to the system operator for compliance with the interconnection requirements of the plant. This is the first submission of the new generic model for this type of control for a renewable project. The submitted model is appropriate for dynamic simulations, which are routinely performed by ISOs/RTOs/TSPs in system impact studies or transmission planning studies. This paper provides useful guidelines in applying this new model for similar projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous paper (Part 1) the authors have performed the simulative evaluation of the life lost by HVDC extruded cables subjected to long TOVs occurring in VSC HVDC cable systems. The conclusions were that it cannot be completely ruled out that the field levels and the duration of such TOVs are a potential threat to certain cable designs, and tests other than Load Cycling Type Tests after CIGRÉ Technical Brochure 496 could assess quantitatively the potential threat associated with long TOVs. For these reasons, in this Part 2 superimposed switching impulses applied during Type Tests after TB 496 are analyzed in order to check if such impulses might be equivalent to long TOVs as for their electro-thermal stress effects on extruded insulation. The analysis is similar to that carried out for long TOVs in Part 1, i.e., it consists of: calculating the electric field during superimposed switching impulses; comparing it with the field during long TOVs; calculating with Miner's law of cumulated damage the life lost during superimposed switching impulses and comparing it with the loss of life during TOVs. A brief literature survey of potential high field effects during long TOVs is also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a model predictive control (MPC) method for modular-multilevel-converter (MMC) high-voltage direct current (HVDC). To control the MMC-HVDC system properly, the ac current, circulating current, and submodule (SM) capacitor voltage are taken into consideration. The existing MPC methods for the MMC-HVDC system utilize weighting factors to configure the cost function in combinations of the SM capacitor voltage balancing algorithm, ac current control, and circulating current control. Because all combinations of the switch states are considered in order to minimize the cost function, their possible combinations increase geometrically according to the increase of the level of the MMC, which is a significant disadvantage. This paper proposes a new MPC method with a reduced number of states for ac current control, circulating current control, and the SM capacitor voltage-balancing algorithm. The proposed cost functions are divided into three types according to their control purposes. Each cost function determines the minimum number of states for controlling the ac current, circulating current, and SM capacitor voltage. The efficacy of the proposed controlling method is verified through simulation results using PSCAD/EMTDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unbalanced power of three-phase stationary linear loads with a neutral conductor, supplied with sinusoidal symmetrical voltages and its reactive compensation, is the subject of this paper. A novel power equation of such loads is developed. The suggested power equation is based on the decomposition of the load current into Current Physical Components (CPC). This paper shows that all powers can be expressed in terms of the load parameters and this creates fundamentals for design of balancing reactive compensators capable of improving the power factor to unity. A reactive balancing compensator is composed, in general, of two compensators in the \Delta and Y configuration. This paper presents a method of calculation of LC parameters of such a compensator using the CPC-based power theory. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Several methods have been proposed and investigated so far on mitigation of very fast transient overvoltages (VFTO) in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). The state-of-the-art methods are primarily based on dissipation of the energy associated with electromagnetic waves that the VFTO originate from and are composed of. Present paper reports on an alternative concept of VFTO mitigation based on the principle of controlling voltage conditions preceding voltage breakdown in SF6 gas that leads to VFTO generation. The paper introduces different control algorithms and shows how the algorithms can limit VFTO maximum value and total number of voltage breakdowns during operation of the GIS disconnector. The concept is applied for mitigation of VFTO in ultra-high voltage GIS. As the study case, an 1100 kV test set-up is used as recently reported for Wuhan (China) GIS station, with the disconnector characteristics obtained from 1100 kV development tests. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, a new dc switchyard structure for a multiterminal dc (MTDC) grid is proposed. Fast fault current breaking capability, which is essential for a dc grid, can be achieved with available HVDC breaker solutions (e.g., ABB's hybrid HVDC breaker). However, the hybrid HVDC breaker concept also opens up possibilities for unconventional (relative to ac) switchyard solutions which may be more cost effective. The main aim of this paper is to expound how the proposed dc switchyard can be built with hybrid HVDC breakers in a configuration where the number of components is much less compared to a conventional switchyard structure. After that, the switchyard operation, fault current handling flexibility, and actions against component failure are described conceptually. Finally, the performance of the proposed switchyard is validated and compared with that of a conventional double breaker double busbar switchyard structure for selected cases through time-domain simulations [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a startup sequence for a modular multilevel converter (MMC) HVDC-connected offshore wind farm (OWF) and demonstrates how it can be simulated using an electromagnetic transient-type tool. The objective is to analyze inrush currents of transformers and cables (HVAC and HVDC). Modeling accuracies and computational performances are examined using three existing modeling methods for the MMCs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Identifying the location of partial discharges (PDs) and providing clear information on insulation vulnerabilities in power systems can help utility companies to improve their maintenance efficiency. This paper presents a PD monitoring and locating system for medium-voltage switchgears using a set of transient earth voltage (TEV) detectors. A time-of-flight methodology was used to identify the switchgear affected by PD among a row of switchgears. A time sharing access mechanism, which was implemented by multiple high-frequency surface mounting relays integrated into each TEV detector, was applied to automatically identify the site of PD and minimize the number of expensive high-speed acquisition cards. The operation principle and implementation of the modular system were formulated, and the efficiency of the proposed system in identifying the switchgear with PD among three 10 kV metal-clad switchgears was confirmed experimentally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Operational performance in the low-voltage distribution network (LVDN) can be undermined by its inherent unbalances, which may become worse as the penetration of rooftop solar continuously increases. To address this issue, load balancing via phase-reconfiguration devices (PRDs), which can change phase positions of residential customers as required, provides a cost-efficient option. However, most reported approaches to control PRDs require that demands of all residential customers are available, which are not viable for many LVDNs without smart meters or advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) installed. To bridging the gap in this field, this paper proposes a novel method to control PRDs purely based on measurable data from PRDs, and its controller. Based on limited information, sensitivity analysis in the network with PRDs is studied, followed by the optimization model that comprehensively considers operational requirements in the network. Moreover, slack variables are introduced to the model, and penalized in the objective function to assure either a strategy that is secure or with minimized violations can always be provided. The model is a challenging mixed-integer non-convex programming (MINCP) problem, which is reformulated as an efficient solvable mixed-integer second-order cone programming (MISOCP) based on exact reformulations or accurate linear approximations. Simulations based on two modified IEEE systems, and a real system in Australia demonstrate that an efficient strategy can be provided to mitigate unbalances in the network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For Electro-Magnetic-Transient (EMT) simulations of power networks with switches, techniques such as linear interpolation and Critical Damping Adjustment (CDA) are widely used for improving numerical robustness. This paper analyzes the numerical stability of simulations with these techniques. Firstly, it is mathematically shown that the interpolation or CDA step is equivalent to the introduction of additional switching states. Subsequently, Common Quadratic Lyapunov Function (CQLF) theory is used to investigate the numerical stability of the whole simulation considering these new switching states. It is proved that the widely used strategies like linear interpolation and CDA always result a stable simulation if the original switched system is strictly passive in all switching states. Finally, it is shown that the developed approach can be used to determine the stability of other practical interpolation methods. Examples are provided to verify the proposed technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural calamities always have been a serious threat to energy systems. In this regard, this paper constitutes a stochastic mixed integer linear programming (SMILP) model to enhance the resilience of power distribution systems to deal with disastrous events. In particular, the proposed model is developed to enhance both survivability and restoration capability of distribution systems. In this regard, to increase the preparedness of the power distribution system, the system operator reconfigures the network by utilizing remote-control switches (RCSs), manual switches (MSs), and distributed generations (DGs) before the natural calamity hits. The proposed model contemplates the traveling time of crew teams to the MS sites in the transportation system in order to achieve the best switching sequence. In addition, it pre-positions the crews and mobile emergency generators (MEGs) in staging locations to hasten the likely post-disturbance operations. To do so, likely post-event operations are included in the model using the scenario generation technique. To validate the performance of the developed model a distribution system is employed. The results of simulations confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach in declining the interruption of electric energy for customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DC transformer is an essential equipment for formation of multi-voltage-level DC grid. This paper proposes a novel non-isolated Boost-type alternate arm DC transformer (Boost-AADCT) for medium- and high-voltage level DC grid application. The Boost-AADCT is comprised of three submodule-cascaded arms, two thyristor-cascaded director switches, and two buffer capacitors. Bidirectional power transmission is achieved by alternatively charging and discharging of the intermediate arm following the Boost principle, while the pulsating power component caused by intermittent transmission is actively smoothened by grid-side buffer subcircuits formed by the buffer capacitors and grid-side arms. The active power buffering method increases the tolerance range of voltage ripple of the buffer capacitor, and the required energy storage capacity is resultantly reduced. Circuit configuration, operation principle, and mathematical model are first introduced. Then, the control strategy is proposed, the main circuit parameters are designed, and bidirectional fault-blocking capability is analyzed. Comparison with other DC-DC converters shows that the Boost-AADCT significantly reduces the requirement of semiconductors and has relatively lower synthetic cost. At last, performance of the Boost-AADCT and the proposed control strategies are evaluated by simulation tests conducted in MATLAB/Simulink environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capacitor condition monitoring is an important issue for the reliable operation of modular multilevel converters (MMCs) in high-voltage applications. The numerous capacitors make the monitoring for the capacitor condition complex and computation-consuming. This paper proposes a hierarchic capacitor condition monitoring strategy to assure the reliability of high-voltage MMCs. In the strategy, the switching times of the switching signals are counted to detect the condition of the capacitor in each submodule (SM). Then, the subsequent capacitance calculation method is only conducted to the abnormal capacitors indicated by the above condition detection algorithm. Meanwhile, the variations of the measured and reference capacitor voltages are employed to calculate the capacitance in the proposed method. The condition detection algorithm shrinks the scope where the abnormal capacitors locate, which avoids calculating the total capacitances in MMCs. In the proposed capacitance calculation method, the complex operations are further saved. Both the two measures reduce the computation burden effectively. The implementation of the whole monitoring strategy is simple and fit for high-voltage MMCs. Moreover, the strategy has no adverse influence on the normal operation of MMCs. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is verified by the simulation studies with the professional tool Matlab/Simulink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the application of ultra-high-voltage (UHV) technology, how to reduce the construction cost of the UHV substations is becoming an important and emergent issue. In this paper, two kinds of one-column-varistor arresters are used to replace conventional four-column-varistor arresters for busbars or transformers or both of them. The switching overvoltage and lightning intruding overvoltage are calculated to evaluate the feasibility of using one-column-varistor arresters in UHV substations. At the same time, the energy absorbed by and current flowing through the arresters, and the thermal stability of these one-column-varistor arresters are analyzed to ensure their safe operations. It is shown that conventional one-column-varistor arresters can be used for busbars and transformers in UHV substations to replace conventional four-column-varistor arresters and could highly reduce the construction cost of the UHV substation, but the safety of the substation will remain the same. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Power-line communications (PLC) are affected by severe noise. In the inhome scenario, the household appliances are the main sources of noise, when they are fed and running, as they inject noise in the frequencies where PLC operate. This paper presents a methodology for the characterization of the noise generated by devices connected to the power grid. The methodology is applied to study a number of household appliances. The study enables: a) identifying the most noisy devices from which PLC transceivers should be kept far away; b) characterizing the noise both in the time and the frequency domain; c) addressing the definition of noise limits from an electromagnetic-compatibility regulator perspective; and d) quantifying the amplitude of the impulsive noise that may damage the analog front end of the PLC transceiver. This paper addresses the noise during the normal operating conditions of the household appliances, and the noise generated during transients, that is, when the device is connected, disconnected, or switched on or off. In this respect, it is shown that transients may lead to noise spikes that exceed tens of volts. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) operation scheme of the modular multilevel converter adopting clamp double submodules (CDSM-MMC) during a pole-to-pole dc fault is proposed. By analyzing the current paths of a CDSM, this paper proposes three new operation states of the CDSM, which allow the CDSM to provide bipolar voltages when the arm current that flows through it is negative. Through control of the CDSMs to operate in these new states along with the blocked state, the arms of the CDSM-MMC can operate alternately in two different modes, that is, the conducting mode and blocked mode even when the dc-link voltage drops to zero. Thus, the CDSM-MMC is capable of working as a STATCOM during a dc fault. Moreover, a control strategy of the dc-fault STATCOM operation mode is designed to control the reactive power provided by the CDSM-MMC, to limit the dc fault current, and to reserve and balance the energies stored in capacitors. Simulation results conducted in PSCAD/EMTDC demonstrate the validity of the proposed STATCOM operation scheme and control strategy of the CDSM-MMC during a pole-to-pole dc fault. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]