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Transformer oil, insulating paper, high voltage direct current (HVDC) bushings and on-load tap changer (OLTC) are essential parts of converter transformers. When the power flow of the HVDC system is reversed or a sudden outrage occurs, the charge field will deform the dielectric internal electric field, thus easily leading to the occurrence of discharge or insulation damage. In this case, it is necessary to carry out the characterization of the oil?paper interface to avoid these consequences. This paper analyses the interface charge accumulation and dissipation characteristics of an oil?paper insulation system under DC and polarity reversal voltages. In this paper, induced electrification was used to charge the composite oil?paper insulation. The amplitude of DC and polarity reversal voltages applied in this paper was 4 kV, and paper with thicknesses of 0.08 and 0.13 mm was used. This research offers a theoretical exploration to optimize the transformer oil? paper insulation structure and prevent damage to its insulation systems. From the research on different layers and thicknesses of paper, it can be concluded that the decay is fast in the initial period and then becomes slower with the lapse of time until finally the decay curve tends to become flat. With an increase in the number of the paper layers, the interface charge density decreases. So in real life multilayer paper is used to avoid failures owing to its structural weakness. Regarding the DC polarity reversal effect, increasing the thickness of the paper is equivalent to adding paper layers. The dissipation rate of the positive interface charge is quicker than that of the negative one. In the polarity reversal test, the dissipation rate becomes smaller as the reversal time gets longer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an experimental work investigating the failure data of oil-impregnated paper under pulsating DC voltage. The failure data of the oil-impregnated paper specimens were obtained through constant voltage stress tests; the Weibull distribution was used to estimate the statistical distribution of failure data. The exponential function (EF) and the inverse power function (IPF) were used to modify the Weibull distribution of failure data, so as to obtain two dual-variable Weibull failure distributions (WFDs), which were used to analyze failure data of oil-paper specimens obtained under pulsating DC and individual DC and AC voltages. Their adequacies were evaluated by using failure data obtained through the constant stress tests under various voltages. Both EF-modified and IPF-modified WFDs show more adequacy for failure data of oil-paper insulation under DC and pulsating DC voltages than AC voltages. The EF-modified WFD was more adequate than IPF-modified WFD in estimating the statistical distribution of failure data. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

To investigate the characteristics of micro bridges and their interactions with partial discharge (PD) in oil-paper insulation under DC voltage, an experimental platform with two-copper-electrode models is established. Generation and growth of micro bridge impurities are observed. PDs in experimental process are detected and analyzed. The result shows that the generation and growth of micro bridges have three stages based on their quantity and shape. At first stage PD accelerates the generation of micro bridges. At second stage the grown bridges trigger stronger discharges. At the last stage a so-called "hazardous bridge" that triggers highly intensive PDs emerges, through which breakdown happens. Therefore, bridges and PDs promote each other to cause insulation failure. In addition, impurities at the second stage are observed to transform into pile-like, bridge-like or particle-like shapes. The transformation process is considered to relate with the change of composition force on fiber bundles. Besides, a "cluster discharging" phenomenon is observed at the second stage, which is associated with the generation and disappearance of micro bridge impurities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main insulation system in HVDC transformer consists of oil-paper insulation. The formation of space charge in oil/paper insulation system can not only affect the dielectric strength, but also relate to the stability and security of HVDC transformer. Moisture has detrimental effect on the electrical breakdown strength and insulation life of oil-paper insulation. Thus a better understanding the influence of moisture on the charge distribution in multi-layer oil-paper insulation system becomes increasingly practical importance. In the present study, the space charge dynamics in three layers oil-paper insulation system with three different moisture concentrations (0.28, 1.32 and 4.96%) were investigated using the PEA technique under 6 kV. The influence of moisture on the charge distribution in multi-layer oil-paper insulation system was provided. Results show that the higher the moisture content of the oil-paper sample, the higher the mobility of the trapped charges, and the more obvious the positive charge injection and negative charge injection were observed. The negative charges can inject across the paper-paper interface near to the cathode when the moisture content increases to 4.96%. The higher moisture content of the oil-paper sample, the faster the dissipation rate of the charges trapped in the sample. Moreover, the higher mobility of the trapped charges leads to less slow moving charges trapped in the sample with higher moisture content. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The relation between ageing and space charge is a hot area, but there is little direct evidence. In this paper, oil-paper samples were exposed to 20-kV/mm DC electrical field, 130°C temperature or both 20-kV/mm DC electrical field and 130°C temperature separately. Charge transport through them was analyzed at intervals by the pulsed electroacoustic (PEA) method. We find that the quantity of trapped charge increases with stressing durations, no matter what kind of stress oil-paper is exposed to. That indicates that energy release through space charge movement, such as charge trapping/detrapping and recombination, is another reason for traps generation besides deterioration caused by thermal ageing. However, because the difference in cellulose degradation mechanism among them, charge transport dynamics are thereby different under different stressing conditions. Space charge accumulates faster inner electrothermally stressed oil-paper than that inner another two kinds of oil-paper, and the sign of trapped charge is positive if oil-paper is electrically or electro-thermally stressed. The latter behavior is discussed in terms of electromagnetic dynamics due to cavity within oil-paper once there is external electric field. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Main insulation of windings connected with valves in high voltage direct current (HVDC) convert transformers withstands pulsating DC voltages. This paper presents breakdown properties of oil-impregnated paper under pulsating DC voltages at different temperatures. Progressive stress tests were carried out to obtain breakdown voltages of oil-impregnated paper with thickness of 0.2 mm under pulsating DC voltages at different temperatures. Constant stress tests were executed to measure time to breakdown of the oil-paper specimens. Both types of the experiments were also undertaken under either AC or DC voltages. An electrical aging lifetime model was proposed for the oil-impregnated paper, and parameters of the electrical aging lifetime model were presented. Experiments and analysis results show that the breakdown voltages and time to breakdown of oilpaper insulation are influenced by temperature significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

An oil-paper insulation system which will withstand DC voltage under normal conditions is a key component of converter transformers as well as high voltage direct current (HVDC) bushings. When the system changes its state, operating overvoltage appears. This kind of overvoltage will consequently affect the application of oilimmersed facilities and the safety of entire grid. Therefore, this paper studies the charge coupling behavior of double-layer oil-paper insulation under DC and pulse voltages. From the research of different pulse voltage amplitudes, pulse numbers and polarity, conclusions can be drawn that, with the increase of the pulse voltage amplitudes, DC and pulse voltages in the same polarity cause the absolute value of the initial surface potential to decrease and then rise; while in different polarities, the charge with the same polarity as the pulse voltage increases. Furthermore, for the same pulse voltage, the absolute initial value of the DC voltage applied in the same polarity is higher than that in different polarities. Considering the pulse number effect, it is obvious that the initial value increases with the increase in the pulse number, and then reaches saturation. Also, with the increase in pulse number, the decay rate decreases and thus the charge is slowly dissipated. From the tdV/dt and the decay time curves, the peak value increases with the increase in the pulse number, while the characteristic time varies by the polarity of the DC and pulse voltages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Space charge has received much attention recently because an understanding of space charge in oil-paper insulation is useful for the design of converter transformers. This paper presents a study of space charge dynamics at the physical interface using the pulsed electroacoustic (PEA) method. After sample inversion, space charge in the vicinity of semiconductor electrode could be clearly observed when the sample is under depolarization. When an unexposed sample was placed next to a previously polarized one, negative charge appeared at the dielectric interface. These results indicated that there were other reasons in addition to acoustic loss that led to space charge distribution distortion. As regards the dielectric interface, it was found that an electrical double layer was formed at the interface, and the space charge sign was dependent upon the polarity of applied voltage. Space charge behavior at the interface depended on several aspects of the status of the interface, and during voltage polarity reversal, the interface was a weak point of the insulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil-paper as a reliable insulation system is widely used in power transformers and cables. The dielectric properties of oil-paper insulation play an important role in the reliable operation of power equipment. However, the formation and dynamics of space charge can affect the performance of insulation material. In this paper, space charge in oil-paper insulation system has been investigated using the pulsed electroacoustic (PEA) technique. A series of measurements were carried out when the insulation system was subjected to different applied voltages at different temperatures. Charge behavior in the insulation system has been analyzed and the influence of temperature on charge dynamics was discussed. The test results show that homocharge injection takes place under all the test conditions, the applied dc voltage mainly effect the amount of space charge, while the temperature has greater influence on the distribution and mobility of space charge inside oil-paper samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the fabrication of a plasma-generating device on a paper substrate. This device was fabricated using a screen print process. Plasmas were ignited between two parallel electrodes with a plasma gap of 237 to 710 \mu\m using a dc power source. We demonstrated that a stable helium plasma can be sustained when the substrate is flat, rolled, and folded along various orientations. When the plasma was ignited with a 0.2-\mu\L salt solution droplet with 1.4, 4.6, and 7.8 ng of Li, Na, and K respectively applied to the discharge gap, clear metallic emission lines emanated from the plasma. Our result demonstrates that this paper-based plasma device can be used in analytical applications.\hfill[2012-0006] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses a recent event in the western American power system when a forced oscillation was observed at a frequency that was close to a well-known 0.38-Hz inter-area electromechanical mode frequency of the western system. The event motivates a systematic investigation in this paper on the possibility of resonant interactions between forced oscillations and electromechanical inter-area oscillatory modes in power systems. When the natural oscillatory mode of a power system is poorly damped, and the forced oscillation occurs at a frequency close to system mode frequency at critical locations for the mode, resonance is observed in simulation test cases of the paper. It is shown that the MW oscillations on tie-lines can be as high as 477 MW from a 10-MW forced oscillation in Kundur test system because of resonance. This paper discusses the underlying system conditions and effects as related to resonance in power systems caused by forced oscillations and discusses ways to detect such scenarios using synchrophasors. Simulated data from Kundur two-area test power system as well as measurement data from western American power system are used to study the effect of forced oscillations in power systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An closed oil circulating system with plane electrode was built to study the effect of space charge on oil flow electrification under DC voltage. The results reveal that with the increase of applied voltage, the streaming current was always enhanced. However, the polarity of streaming current depends on the sample configuration. If the negative high voltage electrode was exposed to oil layer, streaming current was negative. Otherwise streaming current had a tendency to be positive as applied voltage increased. In experimental model without exposed electrode, the polarity of streaming current was always positive. And the amplitude of streaming current was related to the number of insulating papers placed under electrode. More craft papers placed under negative high voltage electrode led to the increase of streaming current. Based on the bipolar transport model, a new simulation method is proposed to study the effect of charge injection and transportation on flow electrification under DC voltage. The simulation results agree well with the experimental result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes the above-named upcoming special issue or section. May include topics to be covered or calls for papers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper provides a pragmatic solution to the challenge of testing fault current interruption of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) circuit breakers (CBs). The critical parameters in the design of a test circuit capable of supplying the necessary stresses: current, energy, and voltage (both during and after interruption) are discussed. In addition, a practical implementation of a test circuit based on ac short-circuit generators operated at low power frequency, which is capable of testing the current interruption performance of the proposed technologies of HVDC CBs, is discussed. Tests validating the proposed method and circuit have been conducted on a prototype of an HVDC CB and the test results are presented. Since the performance of some technologies of HVDC CBs can depend on the magnitude of the interrupted current, four test duties are defined and demonstrated in the paper. Moreover, testing of HVDC CBs using ac short-circuit generators poses new challenges, such as the application of dielectric dc stress after current interruption and the protection of both the test-object as well as the test-circuit components when the HVDC CB fails to interrupt. Methods to overcome these challenges are developed and practically demonstrated in a test laboratory. Finally, taking into account the available resources of the author's test laboratory, the capability to test multiple series-connected modules of different technologies of HVDC CBs is verified and example cases are demonstrated. Six short-circuit generators (13 500 MVA @ 50 Hz) and up to ten step-up transformers (up to 550 kV) were actually used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous paper, we introduced a modified Steinmetz equation to account for dc-bias field effects, which requires only a simple dc permeability measurement to predict total power loss. In this paper, we expanded our investigation to include Finemet nanocrystalline material and found that our modified Steinmetz formalism was effective in predicting dc-bias-related losses for this system as well. In this paper, it was observed that Finemet cores exhibit lower losses than Metglas cores under identical test frequencies and bias fields. In addition, we show that a full characterization of the dc loss component necessitates the consideration of higher order ( $n>1$ ) harmonic components. In order to quantify these higher frequency loss components, a dc–dc converter-based test system was built to intentionally introduce inductor current harmonics by varying the filter capacitance and parasitic inductance of the test system. Both core types were evaluated under fundamental frequencies of 20 to 150 kHz and dc-bias fields of up to 1.3 kA/m, with the inclusion of distorted waveforms obtained by varying filter capacitance. At higher frequencies, the Metglas cores were found to exhibit greater loss fractions associated with the higher order harmonic components. A detailed summary of the measured core loss characteristics for both core types is included and discussed. This paper includes the details of the measurements, the modified Steinmetz relation, and the loss extraction algorithm used for analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

For most mass-impregnated (MI) paper insulated HVDC cables, the dielectric strength is found to be weakened when the cable cools, resulting from the creation of dielectric cavities. To better understand the cavity creation, two mechanisms are frequently compared, based on the imperfect impregnation process and sheath plastic deformation respectively. This paper presents an analytical calculation of cable internal pressure, which is applicable to both cavity creation mechanisms. It demonstrates that the two mechanisms can jointly place constraints on the MI cable rating, by limiting the overall rating-related thermal expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DC microgrid has attracted more and more attention due to its unique characteristics, but the development of a dc microgrid is also facing some challenges, such as interruption and isolation of short-circuit fault currents. Therefore, the dc circuit breaker plays an important role in ensuring the normal work of a dc microgrid. In this paper, a novel bidirectional dc solid-state circuit breaker is proposed to realize the bidirectional flow of energy, which ensures the higher operating efficiency of the dc microgrid. Compared with other solid-state circuit breakers, the proposed novel topology has simpler structure, common ground, and fewer components. First, this paper makes a detailed analysis of the different working stages of the circuit when the fault occurs in combination with simulation results of the circuit topology. Then, the standard of selecting the components through the calculation and analysis of the circuit is given in this paper. Finally, the performance of the novel bidirectional solid-state circuit breaker is verified by experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-voltage direct current cable insulations consist of polymeric or mass-impregnated paper materials. Their electric conductivities depend on the electric field and the temperature. Losses inside the conductor and in the insulation increase the temperature, resulting in increased losses and in a possible thermal runaway process. In this paper, coupled electro-thermal field simulations including nonlinear field-dependent conductivities are carried out. With a varying applied voltage and a current in the conductor, the condition for a thermal breakdown is computed. To compute the losses inside a 1-D insulation model, the finite-difference method is used. The simulation results conform well to experimental measurements. An approximation of the condition for a thermal breakdown is developed and show equal results in comparison to the coupled electro-thermal field simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary goal of this paper is to develop an optimization framework for studying the efficacy of transmission line reactance tweaking as a mechanism for post-disturbance control in a transmission network. We start by developing a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) formulation for tracking the redistribution of direct current (DC) flows and the graph-theoretic evolution of a network topology over the course of cascading failures. Next, we propose a min–max setup for studying the impact of post-disturbance reactance tweaking on the resilience of the system to a worst-case disturbance. We devise a MILP reformulation scheme for the underlying bilevel non-convex mixed-integer nonlinear program to facilitate the computation of its globally optimal solution. We then develop a MILP framework for computing a tight upper bound (best-case scenario) on the efficacy of post-disturbance reactance tweaking for a given set of bus loads. Our numerical case study suggests that post-disturbance reactance tweaking, even on only a small number of lines, can be effective in reducing the amount of load shed in some scenarios in the tested system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a balancing algorithm for the so-called Director Switch, a controlled, reverse conducting, self-powered, high-voltage switch, using series-connected insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs). This is a key component on two new voltage-source, high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter topologies. These, which promise efficiency, cost, and size reductions, are an alternate arm converter and a series bridge converter. One of the main design challenges of the director switch is how to supply the IGBT gate drivers, and other auxiliary electronics while overcoming the high-voltage insulation barrier to ground level. In this paper, this is achieved by using the energy stored in a capacitive clamp snubber circuit, which also helps with the overvoltage mitigation during rare hard-switching events. However, the clamp capacitor and by proxy the IGBT voltages become highly unbalanced during operation, compromising the integrity of the switch. This paper presents a balancing strategy that consists in applying a controlled delay in the switching of the IGBT levels, in a way that forces a voltage balance on all the switch levels. The paper explains the unbalance. Then, the balancing strategy is explained and validated on simulation and on a high-voltage experimental rig, on switches comprising two and three series-connected IGBTs, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the editors discuss various reports within the issue including one on new emerging technologies in motion control systems, one on control of direct current (dc) motors, and one on linear actuator with high backdrivability.

The paper presents results of investigations of the effect of moisture content and temperature on DC conductivity of the impregnated pressboard. It has been found that the conductivity of the impregnated pressboard is a function of activation energy, moisture content and temperature. It has been found that moisture content ranging from 1.4% to 6.4% do not cause any changes in the conductivity activation energy whose value is ΔWav = (0.853+0.071) eV. On the other hand water content strongly influences the value of DC conductivity. It has been also found that the conductivity is determined by electron hopping between the closest located potential wells formed by water molecules in the oil-impregnated cellulose structure. For the experimentally obtained dependences of conductivity vs. moisture content and temperature theoretical ones have been determined to describe the experimental results. Based on the research results, a localization radius of the water molecule valence electron that coincides with the O2- ion radius has been determined. The obtained results concerning DC conductivity vs. moisture level and temperature dependence of an electric insulation pressboard can make a basis for the identification of the amount of moisture accumulated in solid elements of a power transformer paper-oil insulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the results of the short-circuit calculations in Part I of this paper, the calculation of the arc-flash hazard in dc systems is demonstrated. Much like ac systems, the arcing currents are not the same as the short-circuit currents. The National Fire Protection Association 2012 methodology recommends that the arcing current be taken as 50 $\%$ of the calculated dc short-circuit current and that the arc-flash hazard be calculated for a time duration of 2 s. Both these concepts are much flawed and will give inaccurate results. It is also imperative to appreciate the short-circuit protection in dc systems. Semiconductor devices have very little energy let-through withstand capability and are protected with fast-acting semiconductor fuses or dc circuit breakers that may arrest the prospective short-circuit current and limit the incident energy release to a small value. This paper calculates the arc-flash hazard in specimen cases to demonstrate the methodology of the calculations in low-voltage and medium-voltage dc systems. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The use of VSC-HVDC grids for offshore wind farm integration will require the use of dc breaker systems and presently they require dc reactors to limit the rate of rise of fault current. The introduction of large dc reactors throughout a VSC-HVDC system can have a significant impact on its stable operation and will require additional control. This paper analyzes this problem and proposes a PSS-like control (DCPSS) to aid dc grid stability and cope with this effect. A generalized analytical model for studies on dc voltage control is presented. Key stability and transient performance issues caused by the use of the dc reactors in a multiterminal system are investigated by analyzing poles, zeros, and frequency responses of open-loop and closed-loop models. Design and location identification methods for the DCPSS are provided. An excellent damping enhancement is achieved by this controller. The analytical studies and time-domain simulations in this paper are performed based on two VSC-HVDC models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the design of the ERCOT modeling extensions to the IEC 61968/70 standards to enable Common Information Model (CIM) schema support of dynamic ratings methodologies. Implementation of dynamic ratings was driven by current economic and environmental constraints placed on the construction of additional electrical transmission infrastructure, thus creating a need to operate the existing equipment closer to its physical limitations. In order to effectively utilize these dynamic limits, the necessary data constructs must be modeled, so ERCOT extended the CIM representation of the balanced three-phase power system model used to operate its various grid functions, in order to support the modeling and use of dynamic ratings in its operational real-time and congestion hedging market models. This paper also explains how the process utilized in the identification and extension of the CIM model for this purpose is flexible enough for generic application within the power industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an accurate time-domain model was established to calculate the ion-flow field of ultrahigh-voltage direct current transmission line. First, the influence of corona layer thickness is considered in the model. Second, the ionic-flow field is calculated without using the traditional fluid model in which the mobility is set as a constant but based on the particle-in-cell iterative method, and the migration of charged particles is analyzed which considering different forces in motion. Therefore, the nonlinear migration of the electric charge can be considered by this calculation process, making the model closer to the actual situation. Third, coaxial cylinder model is used to verify this method. Finally, corresponding calculation results of −1100 kV transmission line were obtained by this method, and the impact of wind speed is also studied in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the reliability of dc energy measurement equipment on-board trains, a setup was developed to characterize current transducers under realistic operating conditions. The operating principle is based on a current ratio measurement technique. The reference sensor is a high-precision zero-flux current transducer in combination with a broadband high-precision current shunt. The influence of ac distortion on this reference sensor was found to be within a few parts in 106 using an initial version of the setup, in which ac distortion was applied through a separate winding. A revised version of the setup employs a programmable electronic load to apply dynamic currents up to 600 A. The setup was used to characterize a 100 $\mu \Omega $ high-current shunt resistor. The effect of dissipative heating on the dc transresistance error was around 0.03 %, with a settling time of about half an hour. The short-term intrinsic current dependence was also around 0.03 %. The effect of ac distortion was within a few parts in 106. The intrinsic current dependence and the onset of the heating effect were also observed when exposing the sensor to a dynamic current profile that was recorded during a trip between two successive underground train stations on Metro de Madrid. These results demonstrate that the setup described in this paper is very effective for characterizing dc current sensors for practical railway applications. Future work will concentrate on even more demanding current signals, such as chopped signals, and on other types of sensors and measurement systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DC arc evolution is a complicated and rapid time-dependent process. To better demonstrate the mechanism of the dc arc without external interference factors, a test circuit was built for the entire process of arc generation, maintenance, and extinction. Two different adjustment models were adopted. The macroscopic performance and characteristics of the arc were analyzed. The discharging and extinguishing conditions were measured and compared to the results of a burning candle located under a rod–rod air gap. This paper shows that the dc arc’s color changes from blue to purple and then yellow, finally forming a flame as the current increases. The macroscopic performance can be divided into eight periods in the first adjustment model, while only three periods are included in the second model. The arc discharging condition only depends on the applied high voltage, but the extinguishing condition may depend on either the limiting current or the drop-down voltage. Dynamic volt–ampere characteristics appear only if adjusted by the first model. The arc-root voltage is constant to 0.32 kV. The degradation of the ground electrode is far worse than that of the high-voltage electrode. This paper can be regarded as the first-step research for further studies on large-current dc arcs in arcing horns used in dc transmission grounding lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel kind of direct-current and alternate-decay-current hybrid integrative magnetization and demagnetization power supplies applied to transformer dc bias treatment based on a nanocomposite magnetic material. First, according to the single-phase transformer structure, one dc bias magnetic compensation mechanism was provided. The dc bias flux in the transformer main core could be eliminated directionally by utilizing the material remanence. Second, for the rapid response characteristic of the magnetic material to an external magnetic field, one positive and negative dc magnetization superimposed decaying ac demagnetization hybrid integrative power supplies based on single-phase rectifier circuit and inverter circuit was designed. In order to accurately control the magnetic field strength by which a good de/-magnetization effect could be achieved, this paper adopts the double-loop control technology of the magnetic field strength and magnetizing current for the nanocomposite magnetic state adjustment. Finally, two 10 kVA transformers and the experiment module of the hybrid integrative power supplies were manufactured and built. Experimental results showed that the integrated power supplies have good de/-magnetization effect and practicability, proving the validity and feasibility of the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a comparative analysis of the creeping discharge characteristics on mineral oil-impregnated pressboard (OIP) under combined AC and DC voltages. The creeping discharge behavior at various voltage levels to failure were analyzed using partial discharge (PD) measurements, camera observations, and electric field simulations. It was found that the creeping discharge distribution was significantly influenced by the DC component, and it was difficult to induce failure even on OIP with high moisture under combined AC and DC voltage. The flashover along the free-oil boundary layer above the OIP during creeping discharge occurred much more easily under combined AC and DC than under AC voltage, and the quality of the oil was important to avoid flashover. These differences were attributed to the combined influence of the electric field distribution under DC and space charge accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An arc fault establishes a current path in the air which may cause malfunction of direct current (dc) system and even a fire hazard. Arc fault detection is essential to improving the reliability, efficiency, and safety of the dc system. However, the randomness of dc arc faults makes it difficult to define their characteristics. In this paper, a magnetic-sensing-based technique is proposed to detect dc arc. This paper developed a promising dc-arcing detection technique based on the analysis of frequency-domain features of the magnetic field measured by a magnetic sensor. The effects of the supply voltage, load current, and electrode diameter on the frequency domain of the arc current were investigated. The experimental results show that the proposed detection technique could reliably discriminate the normal operation and arc fault. This technique is cost-effective because it can be implemented with low-cost magnetoresistive sensors and does not require an expensive current transformer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the performance of switch-mode power supplies used in desktop PCs (PC-SMPS’) across the entire range of operating powers. Experimental results show that at low to medium operating powers, the input ac current might lose its periodicity with supply voltage frequency, when PCS-MPS’ can be an unexpected source of interharmonics and dc component. In such cases, there is a significant increase of PC-SMPS’ current waveform distortion and a substantial decrease of efficiency and operational power factors, which requires application of appropriate measurement and calculation procedures during the analysis. To correctly assess these power-dependent changes in performance and power quality indicators, this paper introduces a novel testing and evaluation methodology, based on the known or assumed PC-SMPS operating cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses dynamic behavior of a dual-active-bridge (DAB) dc–dc converter. Conventional phase-shift control methods for the DAB converter may cause dc offsets in both inductor current and transformer magnetizing current in transient states. The dc offset in the inductor current would introduce an excessive peak current through the switching devices. The dc offset in the magnetizing current may induce magnetic-flux saturation. Conventional methods simultaneously turn on and off the diagonal switches in each H-bridge converter and produce a square-wave voltage with a 50% duty ratio. In contrast, the proposed method in this paper independently controls each switch to modify the duty ratio in transient states. This paper clearly derives the requirements of each switch to eliminate the dc offsets in both currents with a settling time shorter than half the switching period. Experimental results using a 5-kW 20-kHz system verify the validity of the proposed control method, which is effective not only in a single step change, but also in a continuous change in the phase-shift reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel hybrid excitation vernier permanent magnet machine (HE-VPM). The characteristics of the proposed machine are: 1) the PMs are embedded in the stator teeth, which is helpful for the heat dissipation; 2) the rotor is salient structure without PMs and windings, which ensures the reliability of high-speed operation; 3) the nonoverlapping concentrated winding shortens the end-connection, and improves the torque density, 4) only half of the stator teeth possess PMs, and the total amount of PMs are decreased; and 5) the dc current are injected to the armature coils, therefore, the exciting field can be adjusted flexibly. In this paper, the electromagnetic performance, including back electromotive force, torque, etc. are analyzed with finite element analysis. The results show that the proposed machine exhibits flexible field adjustment capability, which may be suitable for applications requiring wide speed range operation. Besides, it is found that, compared with the existing pure sinusoidal phase current, higher torque density can be obtained with dc-biased phase current under constant stator copper loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The delta-connected cascaded H-bridge converter has been applied to compensate flicker and unbalance load to meet power quality requirement. Based on the detailed power analysis, this paper presents a dc capacitor voltage-balancing technique for the converter. This paper also proposes a current limit control technique to avoid overstressing the power semiconductor devices of the converter. The control techniques in this paper are verified in a 220-V, 1-kVA laboratory test bench. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes an input voltage sensorless control algorithm for three-phase active boost rectifiers. Using this approach, the input ac-phase voltages can be accurately estimated from the fluctuations of other measured state variables and preceding switching state information from converter dynamics. Furthermore, the proposed control strategy reduces the input current harmonics of an ac–dc three-phase boost power factor correction (PFC) converter by injecting an additional common-mode duty ratio term to the feedback controllers’ outputs. This additional duty compensation term cancels the unwanted input harmonics, caused by the floating potential between ac source neutral and dc link negative, without requiring any access to the neutral point. A 6-kW (continuous power)/10-kW (peak power) three-phase boost PFC prototype using SiC-based semiconductor switching devices is designed and developed to validate the proposed control algorithm. The experimental results show that an input power factor of 0.999 with a conversion efficiency of 98.3%, total harmonic distortion as low as 4%, and a tightly regulated dc-link voltage with 1% ripple can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a family of hybrid converter topologies which can supply simultaneous dc and ac loads from a single dc input. These topologies are realized by replacing the controlled switch of single-switch boost converters with a voltage-source-inverter bridge network. The resulting hybrid converters require lesser number of switches to provide dc and ac outputs with an increased reliability, resulting from its inherent shoot-through protection in the inverter stage. Such multioutput converters with better power processing density and reliability can be well suited for systems with simultaneous dc and ac loads, e.g., nanogrids in residential applications. The proposed converter, studied in this paper, is called boost-derived hybrid converter (BDHC) as it is obtained from the conventional boost topology. The steady-state behavior of the BDHC has been studied in this paper, and it is compared with conventional designs. A suitable pulse width modulation (PWM) control strategy, based upon unipolar sine-PWM, is described. A DSP-based feedback controller is designed to regulate the dc as well as ac outputs. A 600-W laboratory prototype is used to validate the operation of the converter. The proposed converter is able to supply dc and ac loads at 100 V and 110 V (rms), respectively, from a 48-V dc input. The performance of the converter is demonstrated with inductive and nonlinear loads. The converter exhibits superior cross-regulation properties to dynamic load-change events. The proposed concept has been extended to quadratic boost converters to achieve higher gains. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Symmetrical ac-side current control is widely used for grid-connected modular multilevel converters (MMCs) under grid fault conditions. However, it is revealed that this control method can lead to unbalanced arm currents and consequently asymmetrical electrical stresses and nonuniform temperature distributions. This paper aims to analyze the mechanism of the unbalanced arm currents and propose an effective method to solve this problem. First, the electrical quantities inside MMCs are analyzed under unbalanced grid fault conditions. The analytical expressions of the unbalanced arm currents are derived considering different fault severities and operating conditions to reveal the “side-effects” of the symmetrical ac-side current control. After that, a zero-sequence ac voltage injection method is proposed. The injected voltage is directly derived from negative-sequence ac current controller and ac-side current with pure mathematical manipulations, which can be easily obtained without extra controllers. The effect of the injected voltage on the original modulation index is very limited according to an accurate quantitative analyzation. Moreover, the proposed method does not affect the already achieved symmetrical ac-side current control and the circulating current suppression. The effectiveness and performance of the proposed analysis and control method are verified by both simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates the presence of spurious power losses or generation in the Arm Equivalent Model (AEM) of Modular Multilevel Converters. Such power losses can occur if model equations are not solved simultaneously with surrounding power circuit equations, which is the case when the AEM is implemented using control system blocks in electromagnetic transient simulation software. Depending on operating conditions and simulation parameters, these additional losses can represent a significant part of the total converter station losses or even surpass them, thus making simulation results inaccurate. Analytical demonstration of the losses is presented, and several models that eliminate the losses are proposed. Based on simulation studies, only the variable resistance model and equivalent voltage source model can give accurate simulation results without significantly increasing simulation time and generating or consuming spurious power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the numerical and experimental validation of a novel non-contact dc electromagnetic propulsion concept. In the proposed approach, a propulsion coil carrying a dc current is surrounded by a dc transversal multipole field created inside of a launch tube. The interaction between the transversal dc magnetic field and a dc propulsion coil results in the generation of axial (thrust) force with no need of sliding contacts. This paper describes a numerical assessment of the field-current-force interactions based on both analytical calculations and finite elements, and the corresponding validation experiments. The experiments demonstrate the generation of contactless axial (thrust) force in a dc launch coil using a dc transversal multipole field, and provide a benchmark for the model-based prediction of the field-current-force interactions. Partial magnetic shielding of the propulsion coil is used to selectively attenuate the magnetic field experienced by the thrust coil in a way that a net thrust force is achieved. Experimental measurements confirmed that it is indeed possible to generate contact-free thrust force on a dc propulsion coil using a dc multipole magnetic field, and the measured values of thrust force are in good agreement with the corresponding predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents a circuit performance benchmarking using the large-signal model of graphene FET reported in Part I of this two-part paper. To test the model, it has been implemented in a circuit simulator. In particular, we have simulated a high-frequency performance amplifier, together with other circuits that take the advantage of the ambipolarity of graphene, such as a frequency doubler, an RF subharmonic mixer, and a multiplier phase detector. A variety of simulations comprising dc, transient dynamics, Bode diagram, S parameters, and power spectrum have been compared with experimental data to assess the validity of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The integration of high bandwidth energy-storage systems (ESS) in compact dc electrical power systems can increase the operational capability and overall flexibility of the network. However, the impact of ESSs on the performance of existing dc protection systems is not well understood. This paper identifies the key characteristics of the ESS that determine the extent of the protection blinding effects on slower acting generator systems on the network. It shows that higher fault impedances beyond that of an evaluated critical level will dampen the response of slower-acting generator systems, decreasing the speed of corresponding overcurrent protection operation. The paper demonstrates the limitations of existing protection solutions and identifies more suitable protection approaches to remove/minimize the effects of protection blinding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Future power systems will contain more converter-based generation, among which are the voltage-source converter–high-voltage direct-current (VSC-HVDC)-connected offshore wind power plants (WPP). Their interaction with the onshore system influences power system dynamics in the transient stability timeframe. The respective protection and control methods which cause this interaction must be taken into account in grid-integration studies performed today. This paper gives insight into the effect of typically required fault ridethrough (FRT) and post-FRT measures of VSC-HVDC-connected offshore WPPs on the combined ac and HVDC system dynamics. Several important sensitivities are addressed, among which are: 1) FRT implementation, 2) the postfault active power-recovery rates, 3) the ac network dynamic characteristics, and 4) the HVDC topology. The analysis is first performed as a proof of concept on a small benchmark system, and subsequently generalized to a realistic dynamic model of the future Northwestern European power system. The results of this paper can be used as a reference for understanding the effects of large-scale VSC-HVDC-connected offshore WPPs on the stability of the onshore interconnected power systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a novel ac/dc bridgeless and contactless energy transmission system. The coreless planar transformer and magnetic dipole moment are applied to transmit electrical energy in a noncontact method. In addition, the input ac current of the proposed converter has effective power factor correction. Simultaneously, the primary-side switches have zero-voltage switching, and the secondary-side diodes have zero-current switching. Thus, the power quality and efficiency of the proposed system can be upgraded. Furthermore, the proposed system can increase the transmission distance with the voltage multiplier receiver connected at the rear of the secondary-side coreless planar transformer. Power transmission and circuit operation are described in this paper. Finally, a prototype system is constructed, and its validity has been confirmed with experimental and practical measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a systematic procedure for the design of a channel profile of an epitaxial delta doped channel ( \textE\delta DC) MOS transistor so that the intrinsic gain ( Av ) is high and the threshold voltage ( VT ) mismatch is low. Analytical study shows that a tradeoff relation exists between low VT mismatch and high AV with respect to the thickness of the channel region. Therefore, careful selection of the design parameters is essential in order to have an optimum performance. The performance characteristics of the designed device are subsequently verified through Technology Computer Aided Design simulations. In order to demonstrate the benefits of using optimized \textE\delta DC transistor, we compare its performance with that of a reference deeply depleted channel MOS transistor. The performance improvement of using optimized \textE\delta DC transistor with respect to the chosen objectives is clearly explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power electronics is a fast-developing technology within the electrical engineering field. This paper presents the results and experiences gained from applying design-oriented project-based learning to switch-mode power supply design in a power electronics course at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). Project-based learning (PBL) is known to be a motivating problem-centered teaching method that not only places students at the core of teaching and learning activities but also gives them the ability to transfer their acquired scientific knowledge into industrial practice. Students choose a specification to implement from various power converter application projects, such as a fuel cell power conditioning converter, a light-emitting diode (LED) driver or a battery charger. The students select the topology, design magnetic components, calculate input/output filters and design closed-loop controllers necessary to fulfill the requirements listed in the chosen specification and thus meet the project's goals. This paper presents the course teaching plan and teaching methods, assessment method and student feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents an improved corrective security constrained optimal power flow (CSCOPF) for a meshed AC/DC power transmission network with voltage source converter based multi-terminal HVDC (VSC-MTDC) grids. The security constrains of N-1 contingencies for both AC and DC networks are fully considered in the CSCOPF problem. The corrective actions employed in this paper include not only the traditional long-term rescheduling control actions of the AC system, but also the short term post-contingency fast corrective control of multi-terminal VSC-HVDC. A hybrid method is developed to solve the improved CSCOPF problem and the effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated and demonstrated in this paper by two example meshed AC/DC power systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small isolated power systems often experience generator outages, which are responsible for the activation of the under-frequency load shedding scheme with the corresponding negative impact on electricity consumers and, hence, market loss. There are three main causes of this problem: the power system's low inertia, the speed governors' low capacity, and a poor size-ratio between generator and system. The most extensive research line in this area is focused on the optimization of the load shedding scheme, which is a partial solution. Another research line is presented to solve the problem from the point of view of the system operator. This paper proposes an online method to predict and correct possible load shedding by redistributing load dispatching. This proposal uses artificial intelligence techniques, in particular neural networks, and a special-purpose power system simulator. In order to evaluate the proposal, the achieved solution is applied to a real case study: the island of Gran Canaria. This application shows the improvement that might be achieved by implementing this simple method. The method proposed in this paper is strongly recommended for regions that have suitable geographical sites as well as energy problems similar to those of the Canary Islands (see tech. rep. “Map of the Canary Islands Power Systems” by Red Electrica de Espana). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexibility is a widely used term in planning process and real-time operation. The existing research on flexibility uses different techniques to study flexibility property from different aspects. While studying a property from various viewpoints increases the understanding on the subject, we need a consistent theoretical framework to consolidate the ideas generated in the field, compare and contrast results, and build on for future analysis. Based on the insights of the nature of flexibility, this paper proposes a unified framework for defining and measuring flexibility in power system. Under the proposed framework, we propose a flexibility metric which evaluates the largest variation range of uncertainty that the system can accommodate. Such a metric takes into account transmission network and system operations constraints, which are critical to assessing flexibility, but are often ignored in literature. A robust optimization technique is used to calculate the proposed metrics. While the illustrative example presented in this paper focuses on the flexibility in real-time system operation in the presence of wind and load uncertainty, this framework can generally be applicable to long-term studies such as system planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]