Answers for energy.

High Voltage
Direct Current Transmission
Proven Technology for Power Exchange
www.siemens.com/energy/hvdc
2
Contents
Chapter Theme Page
1 Why High Voltage Direct Current? 4
2 Main Types of HVDC Schemes 6
3 Converter Theory 8
4 Principle Arrangement
of an HVDC Transmission Project 11
5 Main Components 14
5.1 Thyristor Valves 14
5.2 Converter Transformer 18
5.3 Smoothing Reactor 20
5.4 Harmonic Filters 22
5.4.1 AC Harmonic Filter 22
5.4.2 DC Harmonic Filter 25
5.4.3 Active Harmonic Filter 26
5.5 Surge Arrester 28
5.6 DC Transmission Circuit 31
5.6.1 DC Transmission Line 31
5.6.2 DC Cable 32
5.6.3 High Speed DC Switches 34
5.6.4 Earth Electrode 36
5.7 Control & Protection 38
6 System Studies, Digital Models,
Design Specifications 45
7 Project Management 46
3
1 Why High Voltage
Direct Current?
1.1 Highlights from the High Voltage Direct
Current (HVDC) History
The transmission and distribution of electrical energy
started with direct current. In 1882, a 50-km-long
2-kV DC transmission line was built between Miesbach
and Munich in Germany. At that time, conversion
between reasonable consumer voltages and higher
DC transmission voltages could only be realized by
means of rotating DC machines.
In an AC system, voltage conversion is simple.
An AC transformer allows high power levels and
high insulation levels within one unit, and has
low losses. It is a relatively simple device, which
requires little maintenance. Further, a three-phase
synchronous generator is superior to a DC generator
in every respect. For these reasons, AC technology
was introduced at a very early stage in the develop-
ment of electrical power systems. It was soon
accepted as the only feasible technology for genera-
tion, transmission and distribution of electrical
energy.
However, high-voltage AC transmission links have
disadvantages, which may compel a change to
DC technology:
Inductive and capacitive elements of overhead lines
and cables put limits to the transmission capacity
and the transmission distance of AC transmission
links.
This limitation is of particular significance for
cables. Depending on the required transmission
capacity, the system frequency and the loss evalua-
tion, the achievable transmission distance for
an AC cable will be in the range of 40 to 100 km.
It will mainly be limited by the charging current.
Direct connection between two AC systems with
different frequencies is not possible.
Direct connection between two AC systems with
the same frequency or a new connection within a
meshed grid may be impossible because of system
instability, too high short-circuit levels or undesir-
able power flow scenarios.
Engineers were therefore engaged over generations
in the development of a technology for DC transmis-
sions as a supplement to the AC transmissions.
Line-Commutated Current Sourced Converters
The invention of mercury arc rectifiers in the nine-
teen-thirties made the design of line-commutated
current sourced converters possible.
In 1941, the first contract for a commercial HVDC
system was signed in Germany: 60 MW were to be
supplied to the city of Berlin via an underground
cable of 115 km length. The system with 200 kV
and 150 A was ready for energizing in 1945. It was
never put into operation.
Since then, several large HVDC systems have been
realized with mercury arc valves.
The replacement of mercury arc valves by thyristor
valves was the next major development. The first
thyristor valves were put into operation in the late
nineteen-seventies.
The outdoor valves for Cahora Bassa were designed
with oil-immersed thyristors with parallel/series
connection of thyristors and an electromagnetic
firing system.
Further development went via air-insulated air-
cooled valves to the air- insulated water-cooled
design, which is still state of the art in HVDC valve
design.
The development of thyristors with higher current
and voltage ratings has eliminated the need for
parallel connection and reduced the number of
series-connected thyristors per valve. The develop-
ment of light-triggered thyristors has further reduced
the overall number of components and thus contrib-
uted to increased reliability.
Innovations in almost every other area of HVDC have
been constantly adding to the reliability of this tech-
nology with economic benefits for users throughout
the world.
Self-Commutated Voltage Sourced Converters
Voltage sourced converters require semiconductor
devices with turn-off capability. The development
of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBT) with high
voltage ratings have accelerated the development
of voltage sourced converters for HVDC applications
in the lower power range.
The main characteristics of the voltage sourced
converters are a compact design, four-quadrant
operation capability and high losses.
Siemens is offering voltage sourced converters for
HVDC applications with ratings up to 250 MW under
the trade name HVDC
plus
Power Link Universal
Systems.
This paper focuses upon HVDC transmission systems
with high ratings, i.e. with line-commutated current
sourced converters.
HVDC = high voltage direct current
DC = direct current
AC = alternating current
IGBT = insulated gate bipolar transistor 4
5
1.2 Technical Merits of HVDC
The advantages of a DC link over an AC link are:
A DC link allows power transmission between
AC networks with different frequencies or networks,
which can not be synchronized, for other reasons.
Inductive and capacitive parameters do not limit
the transmission capacity or the maximum length
of a DC overhead line or cable. The conductor cross
section is fully utilized because there is no skin effect.
For a long cable connection, e.g. beyond 40 km,
HVDC will in most cases offer the only technical
solution because of the high charging current of
an AC cable. This is of particular interest for trans-
mission across open sea or into large cities where
a DC cable may provide the only possible solution.
A digital control system provides accurate and
fast control of the active power flow.
Fast modulation of DC transmission power can be
used to damp power oscillations in an AC grid and
thus improve the system stability.
1.3 Economic Considerations
For a given transmission task, feasibility studies
are carried out before the final decision on imple-
mentation of an HVAC or HVDC system can be taken.
Fig.1-1 shows a typical cost comparison curve
between AC and DC transmission considering:
AC vs. DC station terminal costs
AC vs. DC line costs
AC vs. DC capitalised value of losses
The DC curve is not as steep as the AC curve because
of considerably lower line costs per kilometre. For
long AC lines the cost of intermediate reactive power
compensation has to be taken into account.
The break-even distance is in the range of 500 to
800 km depending on a number of other factors, like
country-specific cost elements, interest rates for project
financing, loss evaluation, cost of right of way etc.
1.4 Environmental Issues
An HVDC transmission system is basically environment-
friendly because improved energy transmission possi-
bilities contribute to a more efficient utilization of
existing power plants.
The land coverage and the associated right-of-way
cost for an HVDC overhead transmission line is not
as high as that of an AC line. This reduces the visual
impact and saves land compensation for new projects.
It is also possible to increase the power transmission
capacity for existing rights of way. A comparison
between a DC and an AC overhead line is shown
in Fig. 1-2.
AC-tower DC-tower
Fig. 1-2: Typical transmission line structures
for approx. 1000 MW
There are, however, some environmental issues
which must be considered for the converter stations.
The most important ones are:
Audible noise
Visual impact
Electromagnetic compatibility
Use of ground or sea return path
in monopolar operation
In general, it can be said that an HVDC system is
highly compatible with any environment and can
be integrated into it without the need to compromise
on any environmentally important issues of today.
Fig. 1-1: Total cost/distance
Costs
Total AC Cost
Total DC Cost
DC Line
DC Terminals
DC Losses
AC Losses
AC Line
AC Terminals
Break-Even
Distance
Transmission
Distance
2 Main Types of HVDC Schemes
2.1 DC Circuit
The main types of HVDC converters are distinguished
by their DC circuit arrange-ments. The following
equivalent circuit is a simplified representation of
the DC circuit of an HVDC pole.
U
d1
U
d2
U
d
Fig. 2-1: Equivalent DC circuit
The current, and thus the power flow, is controlled
by means of the difference between the controlled
voltages. The current direction is fixed and the power
direction is controlled by means of the voltage polarity.
The converter is described in the next section.
2.2 Back-to-Back Converters
The expression Back-to-back indicates that the recti-
fier and inverter are located in the same station.
Back-to-back converters are mainly used for power
transmission between adjacent AC grids which can
not be synchronized. They can also be used within
a meshed grid in order to achieve a defined power flow.
HVDC
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
Fig. 2-2: Back-to-back converter
HVDC = high voltage direct current
DC = direct current
AC = alternating current
U
d
= DC voltage 12-pulse
I
d
= DC current
OHL = overhead line
LVDC = low voltage direct current
Fig. 2-3: Back-to-back converter Station Vienna Southeast
2.3 Monopolar Long-Distance Transmissions
For very long distances and in particular for very
long sea cable transmissions, a return path with
ground/sea electrodes will be the most feasible
solution.
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2 HVDC
Cable/OHL
Electrodes
Fig. 2-4: Monopole with ground return path
In many cases, existing infrastructure or environmental
constraints prevent the use of electrodes. In such cases,
a metallic return path is used in spite of increased
cost and losses.
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2 HVDC
Cable/OHL
LVDC
Fig. 2-5: Monopole with metallic return path
6
2.4 Bipolar Long-Distance Transmissions
A bipole is a combination of two poles in such a way
that a common low voltage return path, if available,
will only carry a small unbalance current during normal
operation.
This configuration is used if the required transmission
capacity exceeds that of a single pole. It is also used
if requirement to higher energy availability or lower
load rejection power makes it necessary to split the
capacity on two poles.
During maintenance or outages of one pole, it is still
possible to transmit part of the power. More than 50 %
of the transmission capacity can be utilized, limited
by the actual overload capacity of the remaining pole.
The advantages of a bipolar solution over a solution
with two monopoles are reduced cost due to one
common or no return path and lower losses. The main
disadvantage is that unavailability of the return path
with adjacent components will affect both poles.
2.4.1 Bipole with Ground Return Path
This is a commonly used configuration for a bipolar
transmission system. The solution provides a high
degree of flexibility with respect to operation with
reduced capacity during contingencies or maintenance.
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
HVDC
Cable/OHL
HVDC
Cable/OHL
Electrodes
Fig. 2-6: in bipolar balanced operation (normal)
Upon a single-pole fault, the current of the sound
pole will be taken over by the ground return path
and the faulty pole will be isolated.
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
HVDC
Cable/OHL
HVDC
Cable/OHL
Electrodes
Fig. 2-7: in monopolar ground return
operation (converter pole or OHL outage)
Following a pole outage caused by the converter,
the current can be commutated from the ground
return path into a metallic return path provided
by the HVDC conductor of the faulty pole.
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
HVDC
Cable/OHL
Electrodes
HVDC
Cable/OHL
Fig. 2-8: in monopolar metallic return
operation (converter pole outage)
2.4.2 Bipole with Dedicated Metallic Return Path
for Monopolar Operation
If there are restrictions even to temporary use of
electrodes, or if the transmission distance is relatively
short, a dedicated LVDC metallic return conductor
can be considered as an alternative to a ground
return path with electrodes.
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
HVDC
Cable/OHL
LVDC
Cable/OHL
HVDC
Cable/OHL
Fig. 2-9: in bipolar balanced operation (normal)
2.4.3 Bipole without Dedicated Return Path
for Monopolar Operation
A scheme without electrodes or a dedicated metallic
return path for monopolar operation will give the
lowest initial cost.
HVDC
Cable/OHL
HVDC
Cable/OHL
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
Fig. 2-10: in bipolar balanced operation (normal)
Monopolar operation is possible by means of bypass
switches during a converter pole outage, but not
during an HVDC conductor outage.
A short bipolar outage will follow a converter pole
outage before the bypass operation can be established.
7
3 Converter Theory
3.1 Bridge Circuit Function
Current flows through the valves when the voltage
between the anode and cathode is positive. For the
valve to commutate the current, there must be a
positive potential (voltage), and the thyristor must
have firing pulses. In the reverse direction, i.e. when
the potential between anode and cathode is negative,
a firing pulse has no effect. The flow of current in
a valve ends when the voltage between anode and
cathode becomes negative. The instant when current
begins to flow through a valve, or to commutate
from one valve to another, can be delayed by post-
poning the firing. This method permits the average
value of the outgoing voltage of the rectifier to be
changed. The firing pulses are generated by synchro-
nizing the network using an elec-tronic control device.
These pulses can be displaced from their natural
firing point, which is the point where the two phase
voltages intersect. The method of firing-pulse dis-
placement is called phase control.
Fig. 3-1: Six-pulse converter bridge
DC current in each valve and phase
l
d
l
d
U
d
U d
L
1
L
1
1
1 1
4
3
3
6
60
0 120
2 4 6 2
6
5
5
2
L
2
L
2
L
3
L
3
i
1
i
2
i
3
i
4
i
5
i
6
i
L
1
i
L
2
i
L
3
The angle between the time at which the valve voltage
becomes positive and the firing time (start of commu-
tation) is referred to as the firing delay. Fig. 3-2 shows
that for a firing delay of 90, the average voltage equals
zero. i.e. the positive and negative areas of the curve
voltage against time cancel each other out. No active
power flows through the converter. When the firing
delay is greater than 90, the negative voltage/time
areas dominate, and the polarity of the average direct
voltage changes. Due to physical reasons, the direction
of the current does not change. (The thyristor valves
conduct current only in one direction.) When the direc-
tion of energy flow is reversed, the delivery changes
to the supply side. The rectifier becomes an inverter
which delivers energy to the AC network.
The average value of the direct voltage as a function
of the firing delay is given by:
U
di
= 1.35 * U
L
* cos
U
L
= secondary side line voltage
= firing angle
= extinction angle
Fig. 3-2: DC voltage of bridge converter as a function of
0
t
t
t
t
t
= 0
= 60
= 90
= 90
= 150
= 30
= 180
= 0
0
60
90
150
180
U
di
8
3.2 12-Pulse Group and Converter Transformer
HVDC converters are usually built as 12-pulse circuits.
This is a serial connection of two fully controlled
6-pulse converter bridges and requires two 3-phase
systems which are spaced apart from each other by
30 electrical degrees. The phase difference effected
to cancel out the 6-pulse harmonics on the AC and
DC side.
Fig. 3-3: Arrangement of the valve branches in a 12-pulse bridge
1
2
3
4
1 Valve Branch
2 Double Valve
3 Valve Tower
4 6-pulse Bridge
Fig. 3-4:Current displacement with angle control
= 60
U
di
t
Secondary Voltage
of the Transformer
Basic AC Current
HVDC DC Circuit
U
dN
= P
dN Rec
/I
dN

U
dN
=> nominal DC voltage 12-pulse
I
dN
=> nominal DC current
P
dNRec
=> nominal DC active power
at the rectifier
3.3 Reactive Power as a Function of Load
The curve of reactive power demand of an
HVDC station with changing active power P
can be calculated from equation:
Q = P * tan [ arc cos ( cos - d
x
)]
In Fig. 3-5, the reactive power demand of a converter
is presented under three different control methods.
If the terminal DC voltage U
d
and the firing angle
(or the extinction angle of an inverter) are held
constant, curve (1) will be obtained. If, however,
U
v
is held constant (U
di
= const regulation), a linear
curve such as (2) is obtained. The power of a con-
verter can also be changed when the (nominal)
current is held constant by varying the DC voltage.
Curve (3) shows the reactive power demand for this
control method. It is important to note that the entire
area between curves (1) and (3) is available for reactive
power control. Each point within this area can be set
by the selection of firing angles and (or ).

Fig. 3-5:Reactive power demand of an HVDC converter
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
1 U
d
= const; = const ( = const)
2 U
d
= const; U
v
= const
3 I
d
= const
0.5 1.0
P/P
N
Q/P
N
1
2
3
d
x
= relative inductive voltage drop
U
v
= valve voltage
U
d
= DC voltage 12-pulse
= firing angle
= 180-
= extinction angle
9
3.4 Reactive Power Control
The possibility of electronic reactive power control
as demonstrated in the preceding section is used
only to a very limited degree in HVDC technology.
This is due to economic reasons. Both control reac-
tive power and commutation reactive power are
increased by the reduction of the DC voltage and
the corresponding increase of current. However,
load losses increase with the square of the current.
For this reason, application is limited to the light
loads where the necessary filter circuits produce
a considerable overcompensation for the reactive
power required by the converter.
Fig. 3-6 depicts the reactive power control of the
Drnrohr HVDC link. In this system, a compensation
to 60 Mvar was specified. Compliance with the
Q limit is achieved by load-dependent switching of
a capacitor bank and one of the two high-pass filters.
Electronic reactive power is used only in the light
load range. Normally, there is a difference between
the connect and disconnect points of the reactive
power elements. This provides a switching hysteresis
which prevents too many switching operations or
even a pumping.
Fig. 3-6: Reactive-power compensation and control
of an HVDC back-to-back link
420 kV 50 Hz 420 kV 50 Hz
Q = 103 Mvar Q = 103 Mvar
Q = 103 Mvar Q = 103 Mvar
Q = 103 Mvar Q = 103 Mvar
Q (Mvar)
Highpass filter 1
Highpass filter 2
Capacitor
bank
Electronic
reactive
power
regulation
P (MW)
R
e
d
u
c
e
d

m
i
n
i
m
u
m


l
o
a
d
N
o
r
m
a
l

m
i
n
i
m
u
m


l
o
a
d
N
o
r
m
a
l


l
o
a
d
O
v
e
r

l
o
a
d
100
100
0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2
200 400 500 600 700
20
80
40
60
60
40
80
20
100
P
P
N
300
Reactive-Power Balance
U
AC
in p.u. (AC bus voltage)
cap.
+ ind
reactive-power
converter
reactive-power
AC filters
reactive-power
reactors
reactive-power
capacitors
Q
Network
= + Q
Conv
Q
FK
*U
AC
2
+ Q
L
*U
AC
2
Q
C
*U
AC
2
10
4 Principle Arrangement of
an HVDC Transmission Project
The Principle Arrangement of an HVDC Transmission
Project is reflected on the Moyle Interconnector
project. The HVDC stations between Northern Ireland
and Scotland are operating with the following
highlights:
Direct light triggered thyristor valves for the
complete HVDC system, with 1872 thyristors
in total, with 20 % better reliability and all valve
components free from oil.
Triple tuned AC filter in both stations.
Unmanned stations, fully automatic remote
operation and automatic load schedule operation.
Hybrid optical ohmic shunt for DC current
measuring unit.
Low noise station design for:
AC filter capacitor and reactors
Converter transformer
Converter valve water cooling system
DC hall with smoothing reactor
Station design for DC see/land cable with
integrated return conductor and fibre optic
cable for control and communication.
Date of contract 09/99
Delivery period 27 months
System Data
Transmission capacity 2 x 250 MW
System voltages 250 kV DC
275 kV AC
Rated current 1000 A
Transmission distance 63.5 km
Converter Station Converter Station
Overhead Line
Existing 275-kV
Transmission System
Undersea Cables
Existing 275-kV
Transmission System
AC Substation
Alternating Current Direct Current Alternating Current
Northern Ireland Scotland
Ballycronan
More
Auchencrosh Coylton
Moyle Interconnector
11
2
5
0

k
V

D
C
D
C

H
A
L
L
V
A
L
V
E

H
A
L
L
C
O
N
T
R
O
L

B
U
I
L
D
I
N
G
C
O
N
V
E
R
T
E
R

T
R
A
N
S
F
O
R
M
E
R

A
R
E
A
S
H
U
N
T

C
A
P
A
C
I
T
O
R

B
A
N
K 1
2
3
6
14
16
14
Thyristor
Valves
Thyristor
Valves
AC Bus
Smoothing Reactor
Pole 1, 250 MW
Pole 2, 250 MW
Smoothing Reactor
AC-Filter
AC-Filter
AC-Filter
AC-Filter
C-Shunt
AC-Filter
250 DC Power Cable.
63.5 km to HVDC Station
Ballycronan More
Northern Ireland
HVDC Station Auchencrosh
12
D
C

H
A
L
L
V
A
L
V
E

H
A
L
L
C
O
N
V
E
R
T
E
R

T
R
A
N
S
F
O
R
M
E
R

A
R
E
A
S
H
U
N
T

C
A
P
A
C
I
T
O
R

B
A
N
K
2
7
5

k
V

A
C


S
W
I
T
C
H
Y
A
R
D
2
7
5
k
V
O
H
L
1 Quadruple Thyristor Valve
2 Converter Transformer
3 Air Core Smoothing Reactor
4 Control Room and Control Cubicle
5 AC Filter Capacitor
6 AC Filter Reactor
7 AC Filter Resistor
8 Circuit Breaker
4
5
14
15
9
10
8
11
10
9
8
15
7
5
6
5
5
6
6
13
14
8
9
10
9
12
10
9 Disconnector
10 Current Transformer
11 Voltage Transformer
12 Combined Current-Voltage Transformer
13 Capacitive Voltage Transformer
14 Surge Arrester
15 Earthing Switch
16 AC PLC Filter
13
5 Main Components
5.1 Thyristor Valves
Components
Siemens is a leading supplier of HVDC systems all
over the world. Our components are exceeding
the usual quality standards and are system-tailored
to the needs of the grid.
Fig. 5.1-2: General arrangement of a 500 kV MVU (valve tower)
5.1.1 Introduction
The thyristor valves make the conversion from AC
into DC and thus are the central component of any
HVDC converter station. The thyristor valves are of
the indoor type and air-insulated. Siemens has more
than 30 years experience in the development and
manufacturing of thyristor valves and has maintained
the technical leadership by introducing new innovative
concepts such as the corrosion-free water cooling and
the self-protecting direct-light-triggered thyristor.
This directly reflects in the high reliability of these
valves.
12-pulse group
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
valve
Fig. 5.1-1: Principle circuit diagram of a 12-pulse group
consisting of three quadruple valves
Valve
branch
Multiple valve unit
quadruple valve
14
5.1.2 Valve Design
The modular concept of the Siemens thyristor
valves permits different mechanical setups to best
suit each application: single, double, quadruple
valves or complete six-pulse bridges either
free standing or suspended from the building
structure.
For seismic requirement reasons which exist in
some regions of the world, the standard Siemens
valves for long distance transmission are suspended
from the ceiling of the valve hall. The suspension
insulators are designed to carry the weight and
additional loads originating for example from an
unbalanced weight distribution due to insulator
failure, an earthquake or during maintenance.
Connections between modules (piping of cooling
circuit, fibre optic ducts, buswork, and suspension
insulator fixtures) are flexible in order to allow
stress-free deflections of the modules inside an
MVU (multiple valve unit) structure. Figure 5.1-2
shows a typical quadruple valve tower for a 500 kV DC
system. Each valve is made up of three modules.
Four arresters, each related to one valve, are
located on one side of the valve tower. Ease of
access for maintenance purposes, if required,
is another benefit of the Siemens valve design.
By varying the number of thyristors per module
and the number of modules per valve, the same
design can be used for all transmission voltages
that may be required.
15
system faults without any limitations. In case of elec-
trically triggered thyristors (ETT), this is only possible
if enough firing energy is stored long enough on the
thyristor electronics.
Direct light-triggered thyristors with integrated over-
voltage protection (LTT) is now a proven technology
and the Siemens standard. It was implemented success-
fully for the first time in 1997 (Celilo Converter Station
of the Pacific Intertie). It shows excellent performance
and no thyristor failures or malfunction of the gating
system have been recorded. BPA has emphasized its
confidence in this technology in 2001 by awarding
Siemens the contract to replace all mercury arc valves
with direct-light-triggered thyristor valves. Further-
more, this valve technology is used for the Moyle
Interconnector (2 x 250 MW), which went into
service in 2001 and is on contract for the 3000-MW,
500-kV Guizhou-Guangdong system.
Monitoring of the thyristor performance is achieved
by a simple voltage divider circuit made from standard
off-the-shelf resistors and capacitors; monitoring
signals are transmitted to ground potential through
a dedicated set of fibre optic cables as for the ETT.
However, all electronic circuits needed for the evalu-
ation of performance are now located at ground
potential in a protected environment, further simpli-
fying the system. The extent of monitoring is the
same as for the ETT.
It can be expected that this technology will become
the industry standard in HVDC thyristor valves of the
21st century, paving the way towards maintenance-
free thyristor valves.
Fig. 5.1-4: The optical gate pulse is transmitted directly
to the thyristor wafer
Light Pipe
Cu Si
Cu Mo
Fig. 5.1-5: Valve module with direct-light-triggered thyristor
Cu = Copper
Si = Silicon
Mo = Molybdenum
LTT = Light-triggered thyristors
ETT = Electrically triggered thyristors
5.1.3 Thyristor Development
Thyristors are used as switches and thus the valve
becomes controllable. The thyristors are made of
highly pure mono-crystalline silicon. The high speed
of innovation in power electronics technology is
directly reflected in the development of the thyristor.
Fig. 5.1-3: Thyristor development
LTT
kA kV
6
4
2
8
6
4
2
1970
Thyristor Current
(I
dN
)
Thyristor Current for
Long-Distance Transmission
Thyristor Blocking
Voltage (U
DRM
)
Thyristor Blocking
Voltage
1980 1990 2000 2003
The high performance thyristors installed in HVDC
plants today are characterized by silicon wafer
diameters of up to 5 (125 mm), blocking voltages
up to 8 kV and current carrying capacities up to
4 kA DC. Thus no parallel thyristors need to be
installed in todays HVDC systems for handling
the DC current. The required DC system voltages
are achieved by a series connection of a sufficient
number of thyristors.
5.1.4 LTT (Light-Triggered Thyristor)
It has long been known that thyristors can be turned
on by injecting photons into the gate instead of elec-
trons. The use of this new technology reduces the
number of components in the thyristor valve by up to
80 %. This simplification results in increased reliability
and availability of the transmission system. With LTT
technology, the gating light pulse is transmitted via
a fibre optic cable through the thyristor housing
directly to the thyristor wafer and thus no elaborate
electronic circuits and auxiliary power supplies are
needed at high potential. The required gate power
is just 40 mW. The forward overvoltage protection is
integrated in the wafer. Further benefits of the direct
light triggering are the unlimited black start capability
and the operation during system undervoltage or
16
Fig. 5.1-6: Silicon wafer and housing
of a direct-light-triggered thyristor
5.1.5 Valve Cooling
Siemens has used the parallel water cooling principle
for more than 25 years. No corrosion problems have
ever been encountered.
The thyristors are stacked in the module with a heat
sink on either side. The water connection to the heat
sinks can be designed in parallel or series as shown in
figure 5.1-7. The parallel cooling circuit provides all
thyristors with the same cooling water temperature.
This allows a better utilization of the thyristor capa-
bility. Siemens makes use of this principle, which offers
the additional advantage that electrolytic currents
through the heat sinks the cause for electrolytic
corrosion can be avoided by placing grading
electrodes at strategic locations in the water circuit.
Siemens water cooling also does not require any
de-oxygenizing equipment.
Fig. 5.1-7: Piping of module cooling circuit
parallel flow (top); series flow (bottom)
a) thyristor; b) heat sink; c) connection piping; d) manifold
d
b
a c
b
a c
5.1.6 Flame Resistance
A lot of effort has been invested by Siemens
to minimize the fire risk:
All oil has been eliminated from the valve and
its components. Snubber capacitors and grading
capacitors use SF
6
as a replacement for
impregnating oil.
Only flame-retardant and self-extinguishing
plastic materials are used.
A wide separation between the modular units
ensures that any local overheating will not affect
neighbouring components.
Careful design of the electrical connections avoids
loose contacts.
The past has shown that Siemens HVDC installations
have never been exposed to a hazardous valve fire.
The tests performed on actual components and
samples in the actual configuration as used in the
valve indicate that the improved design is indeed
flame-retardant and the risk of a major fire following
a fault is extremely low or even non-existent.
Fig. 5.1-8: Converter valves Sylmar HVDC station,
Los Angeles, USA
17
5.2 Converter Transformer
Siemens supplies transformers which meet all
requirements concerning power, voltage, mode
of operation, low noise level, connection tech-
niques, type of cooling, transport and installation.
They also comply with special national design
requirements.
All over the world, power transformers from
Nuremberg enjoy a great reputation. What the
Nuremberg plant manufactures reflects todays
state of the art and testifies to the highest levels
of quality and reliability. Our quality management
system is certified to DIN 9001, the worlds most
stringent standard. Our accredited test laboratories
likewise meet the latest specifications.
Project: Tian Guang
HVDC bipolar
long-distance transmission
P
N
= 2 x 900 MW
U
d
= 500 kV
Transformers: S
N
= 354/177/177 MVA
1-ph/3-w unit
U
AC
= 220 kV
5.2.1 Functions of the HVDC Converter
Transformer
The converter transformers transform the voltage
of the AC busbar to the required entry voltage of
the converter.
The 12-pulse converter requires two 3-phase systems
which are spaced apart from each other by 30 or
150 electrical degrees. This is achieved by installing
a transformer on each network side in the vector
groups Yy0 and Yd5.
At the same time, they ensure the voltage insulation
necessary in order to make it possible to connect
converter bridges in series on the DC side, as is
necessary for HVDC technology. The transformer
main insulation, therefore, is stressed by both the
AC voltage and the direct voltage potential between
valve-side winding and ground. The converter trans-
formers are equipped with on-load tap-changers
in order to provide the correct valve voltage.
Transformer Rating
S
Trafo Rec (6-pulse)
= 2 * I
dN
* U
sec Rec

I
dN
nominal DC current
U
sec Rec
Transformer-voltage
valve side (Rectifier)
S
Trafo Inv (6-pulse)
= 2 * I
dN
* U
sec Inv

U
sec Inv
Transformer voltage
valve side (inverter)
Fig. 5.2-1: Converter transformer for the Tian Guang
HVDC project during type test
Converter transformer for the
Three Gorges HVDC project 284 MVA, 1-ph/2-w unit
18
5.2.2 Transformer Design Variations
There are several aspects which play a role in
selecting the transformer design:
Transportation Weight and Dimensions
In systems of high power, weight can be an important
consideration, in particular where transportation is
difficult. The relative transportation weights of the
4 major design types are approximately as follows:
Single-phase two-winding transformer 1
Single-phase three-winding transformer 1.6
Three-phase two-winding transformer 2.2
Three-phase three-winding transformer 3.6
The transport dimension and the weight of the
converter transformer depends on the limitations
for street, railway and shipping, especially in the
case of bridges, subways and tunnels.
5.2.3 HVDC Makes Special Demands on
Transformers
HVDC transformers are subject to operating conditions
that set them apart from conventional system or
power transformers. These conditions include:
Combined voltage stresses
High harmonics content of the operating current
DC premagnetization of the core
The valve windings which are connected to the rectifier
and the converter circuit are subject to the combined
load stress of DC and AC voltage. Added to this stress
are transient voltages from outside caused by lightning
strikes or switching operations.
The high harmonics content of the operating current
results from the virtually quadratic current blocks of the
power converter. The odd-numbered harmonics with
the ordinal numbers of 5, 7, 11, 13, 17 cause addi-
tional losses in the windings and other structural parts.
Converter transformer for the
Three Gorges HVDC project 284 MVA, 1-ph/2-w unit
19
5.2.4 Main Components
of the Converter Transformer
Core
HVDC transformers are normally single-phase
transformers, whereby the valve windings for
the star and delta connection are configured
either for one core with at least two main limbs
or separately for two cores with at least one main
limb, depending on the rated power and the
system voltage. Appropriately sized return limbs
ensure good decoupling for a combined arrange-
ment of windings.
The quality of the core sheets, the lamination of
the sheets, and the nominal induction must all
conform to special requirements covering losses,
noise level, over-excitation, etc. Special attention
must be paid to the DC premagnetization of the
core due to small asymmetries during operation
and stray DC currents from the AC voltage network.
The effects of DC premagnetization must be compen-
sated by appropriate design and manufacturing
efforts (e.g. additional core cooling ducts, avoidance
of flux pinching in the core sheet).
Windings
The large number of parameters concerning
transport limitations, rated power, transformer
ratio, short-circuit voltage, and guaranteed losses
require significant flexibility in the design of
windings.
In concentric winding arrangements, star or delta
valve windings lying directly on the core have
proven optimal in many cases. The line winding,
normally with a tapped winding, is then mounted
radial outside this core configuration.
The valve windings with high insulation levels and
a large portion of current harmonics make particular
demands on the design and the quality of the wind-
ing manufacturing. Together with its pressboard
barriers, each limb set, including a valve, an over-
voltage and a tapped winding, forms a compact
unit, which is able to cope with the demand made
by voltage stress, loss dissipation, and short-circuit
withstand capability.
Tank
The unconventional tank design in HVDC transformers
result from the following requirements:
The valve-side bushing should extend
into the valve hall
The cooling system is mounted on the opposite
side to facilitate rapid transformer exchange
For HVDC transformers with delta and star valve
winding in one tank, the valve bushing must be
arranged so that their ends conform to the geometry
of the thyristor valve towers. This frequently leads
to very high connection heights and the need to
mount the oil expansion tank at a significant height.
In close cooperation with the equipment design
department, the engineering specialists at the
Nuremberg Transformer Plant have always been
able to find a design suited to every customer
requirement.
Bushings
Compared to porcelain, composite bushings provide
better protection against dust and debris. A 15%
higher DC voltage testing level compared to the
windings underscores the particular safety aspect
of these components.
Special Tests for HVDC Transformers
Special tests for verifying operating functionality
are required for HVDC transformers. The applicable
international standards are subject to constant
further development. Separate tests with DC voltage,
switching and lightning impulse voltages cover the
range of different voltage loads. The 2-MV DC volt-
age generator in the Nuremberg Transformer Plant
is well-suited for all required DC voltage and reverse
poling tests. The most important criterion is partial
discharge. A maximum of 10 discharges over 2000 pC
during the last 10 minutes of the test is permitted.
5.3 Smoothing Reactor
5.3.1 Functions of the Smoothing Reactor
Prevention of intermittent current
Limitation of the DC fault currents
Prevention of resonance in the DC circuit
Reducing harmonic currents including
limitation of telephone interference
Prevention of intermittent current
The intermittent current due to the current ripple
can cause high over-volt-ages in the transformer and
the smoothing reactor. The smoothing reactor is used
to prevent the current interruption at minimum load.
Limitation of the DC fault current
The smoothing reactor can reduce the fault current
and its rate of rise for commutation failures and
DC line faults.
This is of primary importance if a long DC cable is
used for the transmission. For an overhead line trans-
mission, the current stress in valves is lower than the
stress which will occur during valve short circuit.
Prevention of resonance in the DC circuit
The smoothing reactor is selected to avoid resonance
in the DC circuit at low order harmonic frequencies like
100 or 150 Hz. This is important to avoid the amplifi-
cation effect for harmonics originally from the AC
system, like negative sequence and transformer
saturation.
20
Reducing harmonic currents including limitation
of telephone interference
Limitation of interference coming from the DC over-
head line is an essential function of the DC filter
circuits. However, the smoothing reactor also plays
an important role to reduce harmonic currents acting
as a series impedance.
5.3.2 Sizing of the smoothing Reactor
While the current and voltage rating of the smooth-
ing reactor can be specified based on the data of the
DC circuit, the inductance is the determining factor
in sizing the reactor.Taking all design aspects above
into account, the size of smoothing reactors is often
selected in the range of 100 to 300 mH for long-
distance DC links and 30 to 80 mH for back-to-back
stations.
5.3.3 Arrangement of the Smoothing Reactor
In an HVDC long-distance transmission system, it
seems quite logical that the smoothing reactor will
be connected in series with the DC line of the station
pole. This is the normal arrangement. However in
back-to-back schemes, the smoothing reactor can
also be connected to the low-voltage terminal.
5.3.4 Reactor Design Alternatives
There are basically two types of reactor design:
Air-insulated dry-type reactors
Oil-insulated reactors in a tank
The reactor type should be selected taking the
following aspects into consideration:
Inductance
Costs
Maintenance and location of spare units
Seismic requirements
An advantage of the dry-type reactor is that main-
taining spare units (to the extent necessary) is not
very expensive because they usually consist of several
partial coils. However for very large inductances it
is possible to have more than one unit and it could
be a problem if much space is not available.
In high seismic regions, setting them on post-insulators
or on an insulating platform is a possible problem.
Oil-insulated smoothing reactors are then the preferred
solution.
The oil-insulated reactor is economical for very
high power (I
d
2
* L
dr
). It is the best option for
regions with high seismic requirements.
One bushing of the oil-insulated smoothing reactor
penetrates usually into the valve hall, while the
other bushing is normally in a vertical position.
For the air-insulated dry-type smoothing reactor,
a wall bushing is needed to connect with the valves.
The wall bushing in composite design is the
state-of-the-art technology which provides
superior insulation performance.
Fig. 5.3-1: Oil-insulated smoothing reactor
Three Gorges project
Inductance: 270 mH
Rated voltage: 500 kV DC
Rated current: 3000 A DC
Fig. 5.3-2: Air-insulated smoothing reactor
Tian Guang project
Inductance: 150 mH
Rated voltage: 500 kV DC
Rated current: 1800 A DC
21
Fig. 5.4.1-1: Different harmonic filter types
5.4 Harmonic Filters
The filter arrangements on the AC side of an
HVDC converter station have two main duties:
to absorb harmonic currents generated
by the HVDC converter and thus to reduce
the impact of the harmonics on the connected
AC systems, like AC voltage distortion and
telephone interference
to supply reactive power for compensating
the demand of the converterstation
Each filter branch can have one to three tuning
frequencies. Figure 5.4.1-1 shows different
harmonic filter types with their impedance
frequency characteristics.
5.4.1 AC Harmonic Filter
5.4.1.1 Design Criteria for AC Filters
Reactive Power Requirements
The reactive power consumption of an HVDC converter
depends on the active power, the transformer reactance
and the control angle. It increases with increasing
active power. A common requirement to a converter
station is full compensation or overcompensation
at rated load. In addition, a reactive band for the
load and voltage range and the permitted voltage
step during bank switching must be determined.
These factors will determine the size and number
of filter and shunt capacitor banks.
Harmonic Performance Requirements
HVDC converter stations generate characteristic
and non-characteristic harmonic currents. For a
twelve-pulse converter, the characteristic harmonics
are of the order n = (12 * k) 1 (k = 1,2,3 ...). These
are the harmonic components that are generated
even during ideal conditions, i.e. ideal smoothing
of the direct current, symmetrical AC voltages, trans-
former impedance and firing angles. The characteristic
harmonic components are the ones with the highest
current level, but other components may also be
of importance. The third harmonic, which is mainly
caused by the negative sequence component of the
AC system, will in many cases require filtering.
An equivalent circuit for determination of harmonic
performance is given in figure 5.4.1-3. The most
commonly used criteria for harmonic performance
are related to the harmonic voltage on the converter
station busbar. The purpose of the filter circuit is to
provide sufficiently low impedances for the relevant
harmonic components in order to reduce the harmonic
voltages to an acceptable level.
Fig. 5.4.1-2: AC filters and capacitor banks of Gezhouba/Shanghai

Harmonic Order
Single-tuned
0 10 20 30 40 50
1000
800
600
400
200
0
F
i
l
t
e
r

I
m
p
e
d
a
n
c
e
Double-tuned
0 10 20 30 40 50
1000
800
600
400
200
0
Harmonic Order
F
i
l
t
e
r

I
m
p
e
d
a
n
c
e

Triple-tuned
0 10 20 30 40 50
800
600
400
200
0
Harmonic Order
F
i
l
t
e
r

I
m
p
e
d
a
n
c
e
22
Fig. 5.4.1-3: Equivalent circuit for calculation
of harmonic voltages and currents in the AC system
Network
Impedance
Filter
Impedance
Harmonic
Current
Source
I
h
Z
F
U
h
Z
N
The acceptance criteria for the harmonic distortion
depend on local conditions and regulations. A com-
monly used criterion for all harmonic components
up to the 49th order is as follows:
D
n
Individual harmonic voltage
distortion of order n in percent
of the fundamental AC busbar
voltage (typical limit 1%)
D
rms
Total geometric sum of
individual voltage distortion
D
n
(typical limit 2 %)
The BTS Telephone Interference Factor (TIF) and the
CCITT Telephone Harmonic Form Factor (THFF) are
determined with weighted factors in order to evaluate
the voltage distortion level on the AC busbar with
respect to the expected interference level in nearby
analogue telephone systems. The IT product is a
criterion for harmonic current injected into AC over-
head lines. The criteria based on telephone inter-
ference are in many cases irrelevant, because modern
digital telephone systems are insensitive to harmonic
interference.
Network Impedance
The distortion level on the AC busbar depends on
the grid impedance as well as the filter impedance.
An open circuit model of the grid for all harmonics
is not on the safe side. Parallel resonance between
the filter impedance and the grid impedance may
create unacceptable amplification of harmonic com-
ponents for which the filters are not tuned. For this
reason, an adequate impedance model of the grid
for all relevant harmonics is required in order to
optimize the filter design.
There are basically two methods to include the
network impedance in the filter calculations:
to calculate impedance vectors for all relevant
harmonics and grid conditions,
to assume locus area for the impedance vectors.
The modelling of a complete AC network with all its
components is very complex and time-consuming.
For this reason, the locus method is very often used.
It is based on a limited number of measurements
or calculations. Different locus areas for different
harmonics or bands are often determined to give
a more precise base for the harmonic performance
calculation.
A typical locus area is shown in fig. 5.4.1-4. It is
assumed that the impedance vector will be some-
where inside the perimeter of the coloured area.
The impedance vector of the filter is transformed
into the Y plane for each harmonic frequency.
With both the network and the filter impedances
plotted in the admittance plane, the shortest vector
between the filter admittance point and the network
admittance boundary gives the lowest possible
admittance value for the parallel combination of
the network and the filter. This value is used to
determine the highest possible harmonic voltage.
Fig. 5.4.1-4 Circle of network admittance
and the resonance conditions
Y
min
= 1/R
max
Y
max
= 1/R
min
Y
res
Y
f
I
h
= Harmonic source current
Z
f
= Filter impedance
Z
N
= Network impedance
U
h
= Harmonic voltage
23
The selective resonance method represents a reason-
able compromise. It takes into consideration the fact
that the highest voltage distortion (highest harmonic
voltage) occurs with a parallel resonance between
filter and AC network. It is unrealistic however, to
assume that such a parallel resonance takes place
at all frequencies. Normally it is sufficient to consider
in the calculation of total distortion and TIF value
only two maximum individual distortions from the
resonance calculation. The AC network is assumed
to be open for the remaining harmonic currents.
The filter calculations must reflect detuning caused
by AC network frequency deviations and component
parameter deviations. Production tolerances, tempe-
rature drift and failure of capacitor elements are the
main contributors to parameter deviations.
Requirements to Ratings
Steady-State Calculation
The voltage and current stresses of AC filters consist of
the fundamental frequency and harmonic components.
Their magnitudes depend on the AC system voltage,
harmonic currents, operating conditions and AC system
impedances. The rating calculations are carried out
in the whole range of operation to determine the
highest steady-state current and voltage stresses
for each individual filter component.
Transient Calculation
The objective of the transient rating calculation
is to determine the highest transient stresses for
each component of the designed filter arrangement.
The results of the transient calculation should
contain the voltage and current stresses for each
component, energy duty for filter resistors and
arresters, and the insulation levels for each filter
component.

Fig. 5.4.2-1 DC filter of Guangzhou/China
24
To calculate the highest stresses of both lightning
and switching surge type, different circuit
configurations and fault cases should be studied:
Single-Phase Ground Fault
The fault is applied on the converter AC bus
next to the AC filter. It is assumed that the
filter capacitor is charged to a voltage level
corresponding to the switching impulse
protective level of the AC bus arrester.
Switching Surge
For the calculation of switching surge stresses,
a standard wave of 250/2500 s with a crest value
equal to the switching impulse protective level
of the AC bus arrester is applied at the AC converter
bus.
Filter Energization
The AC filter is assumed to be energized at the
moment for the maximum AC bus peak voltage.
This case is decisive for the inrush currents
of AC filters.
Fault Recovery after Three-Phase
Ground Fault
Various fault-clearing parameters should be
investigated to determine the maximum energy
stresses for AC filter arresters and resistors.
The worst-case stresses are achieved if the
HVDC converters are blocked after fault initiation,
while the AC filters remain connected to the
AC bus after fault clearing and recovery of the
AC system voltage. In this case, a temporary
overvoltage with high contents of non-characteristic
harmonics will occur at the AC bus due to the
effects of load rejection, transformer saturation
and resonance between filter and AC network at
low frequency.
5.4.2 DC Harmonic Filter
5.4.2.1 DC Filter Circuits
Harmonic voltages which occur on the DC side of
a converter station cause AC currents which are
superimposed on the direct current in the trans-
mission line. These alternating currents of higher
frequencies can create interference in neighbouring
telephone systems despite limitation by smoothing
reactors.

DC filter circuits, which are connected in parallel
to the station poles, are an effective tool for com-
bating these problems. The configuration of the
DC filters very strongly resembles the filters on
the AC side of the HVDC station. There are several
types of filter design. Single and multiple-tuned
filters with or without the high-pass feature are
common. One or several types of DC filter can
be utilized in a converter station.
5.4.2.2 Design Criteria for DC Filter Circuits
The interference voltage induced on the telephone
line can be characterized by the following equation:
I
eq
= (H

* C

* I
(x)
)
2

V
in(x)
= Z * I
eq

where
V
in(x)
= Interference voltage on the
telephone line at point x
(in mV/km)
H

= Weighting factors which reflect

the frequency dependence of
the coupling between telephone
and HVDC lines
C

= C message weighting factors

I
(x)
= Resulting harmonic current
of the ordinal number in
the HVDC line at point x as the
vector sum of the currents
caused by the two HVDC stations
I
eq
= Psophometric weighted equivalent
disturbing current
Z = Mutual coupling impedance
between the telephone and
HVDC lines
The equivalent disturbing current combines
all harmonic currents with the aid of weighting
factors to a single interference current. With
respect to telephone interference, it is the
equivalent to the sum of all harmonic currents.
It also encompasses the factors which determine
the coupling between the HVDC and telephone
lines:
Operating mode of the HVDC system
(bipolar or monopolar with metallic or
ground return)
Specific ground resistance at point x
The intensity of interference currents is strongly
dependent on the operating condition of the
HVDC. In monopolar operation, telephone
interference is significantly stronger than in
bipolar operation.
25
5.4.3 Active Harmonic Filter
Active filters can be a supplement to passive filters
due to their superior performance. They can be
installed on the DC side or on the AC side of the
converter. The connection to the high-voltage system
is achieved by means of a passive filter, forming a
so-called hybrid filter. This arrangement limits the
voltage level and the transient stresses on the active
part, so that comparatively low equipment ratings
can be used. Appropriate design allows the exploita-
tion of the positive characteristics of both passive
and active filters. Additionally, the passive part
can be used as a conventional passive filter if the
active part is by-passed for maintenance purposes.
Main Components
No. Component
1
IGBT converter
2
Reactor for inductivity adapting
3
Thyristor switch for converter
overvoltage and overcurrent
protection
4
Transformer
5
Low-pass filter
6
Vacuum switch
7
ZnO arrester
8
Isolators and grounding switches
9
LC branch for deviating the
50-Hz current component
The Siemens active filters use voltage-sourced
IGBT converters with a high switching frequency
to produce an output voltage up to approximately
700 Vpeak, containing harmonics up to the 50th
as required. A powerful high-speed control and
protection system processes the currents and/or
voltages measured at the network by appropriate
sensors and produces the control pulses for the
IGBTs.
A transformer matches the voltage and current levels
at the converter output and provides the required
insulation level. The goal of the scheme is to inject
harmonics in the network with the same amplitude
and the opposite phase of the harmonics at the
measurement point in order to cancel them.
The filter for AC application comprises three single-
phase systems controlled by a common digital con-
trol system. A major difference is the measurement:
instead of measuring the line current, the active filter
at Tjele measures and eliminates harmonics at the
400 kV AC busbars of the station. This has the advan-
tage that the harmonic control requires just one
measurement point, compared to a current measuring
scheme, which would require to measure the current
at several points and combining the measured signals.
The other advantage is that the active filter works
just like a passive filter ideally should do, i.e. elimi-
nating the voltage in the bus, thus representing no
change in philosophy.
Fig. 5.4.3-1: Active DC filter on site (Tian Guang HVDC project)
The active filter is fully assembled in a transportable
container and is tested at the factory as a complete
system before shipping. Fig. 5.4.3-5 shows the
installed active AC filter (in the container) at the
Tjele substation.
Fig. 5.4.3-2: Single-line diagram of the active AC filter.
All phases have the same topology.
400 kV Bus
Active AC Filter
From the
Other Phases
Underground
Cable
Capacitive
Potential
Transformer
Main Components
(one Set for Each Phase)
1
2
3 4 5 6 7
8
9
Common
Control and Auxiliary
Equipment
To/From Main
Components
of the Other
Phases (in
the Container)
Existing
Passive
Filter
ZF2
Optical
Interface
Simadyn D
cubicle
(control and
protection)
IGBT
conv.
LP
26
One harmonic controller is dedicated to each harmonic
selected for elimination by the action of the active
filter. In these harmonic controllers, the particular
harmonic is isolated and expressed by a complex
signal in the frequency domain.
This is done through multiplication by sin (ht)
and cos (ht), where h is the order of the harmonic,
the network angular frequency and t the time.
These two orthogonal signals are produced by a
module synchronized by the fundamental compo-
nent of the filter current. The signal pair obtained
after the mentioned multiplication and filtering feeds
a complex controller with PI characteristic. The out-
put of the controller is then shifted back to the time
domain by multiplication by cos (ht) and sin (ht).
The process is essentially linear, so that all harmonic
controllers can operate simultaneously and the sum
of all harmonic controller outputs gives the wave-
form required by the active filter. This signal is then
given to the IGBT control module, which includes
a pulse width modulator besides functions for pro-
tection and supervision of the converter. Fig. 5.4.3-3: Principle block diagram of the harmonic control
LP
Filter

PI
Controller
cos (ht)
sin (ht)
Self-Tuning
system
Voltage on the
400-kV Busbar
Synchronization
Harmonic Controller
To Other
Harmonic
Controllers
To the IGBT
Converter
From Other
Harmonic
Controllers
Optical
Input
IGBT
control
Fig. 5.4.3-4: Plots from measurement: left without, right with active filter control
Harmonic voltages at the 400-kV bus
(L1) without and
with active filter control (23th, 25th, 35th,
47th and 49th harmonics)
Fig. 5.4.3-5: Installation of the active AC filter, 400-kV substation Tjele (Denmark)
27
5.5 Surge Arrester
Siemens surge arresters are designed optimally
to the following requirements:
Excellent pollution performance for coastal and
desert regions or in areas with extreme industrial
air pollution.
High mechanical stability, e.g. for use in seismic zones.
Extremely reliable pressure relief behaviour
for use in areas requiring special protection.
What is more, all Siemens surge arresters are
sized for decades and the material used provides
a contribution towards the protection of the
environment.
The main task of an arrester is to protect the equip-
ment from the effects of overvoltages. During
normal operation, it should have no negative effect
on the power system. Moreover, the arrester must
be able to withstand typical surges without incurring
any damage. Non-linear resistors with the following
properties fulfil these requirements:
Fig. 5.5-1: Current/voltage characteristics of a non-linear
MO arrester
Arrester Voltage Referred
to Continuous Operating
Voltage /
C
Current through Arrester I
a
[A]
10
-4
10
-3
10
-2
10
-1
1 10 10
2
10
3
10
4
20 C
2
1
0
115 C
150 C
Rated Voltage
R
Continuous Operating
Voltage
C
Low resistance during surges so that overvoltages
are limited
High resistance during normal operation in order
to avoid negative effects on the power system and
Sufficient energy absorption capability for stable
operation
MO (Metal Oxide) arresters are used in medium-,
high- and extra-high-voltage power systems.
Here, the very low protection level and the
high energy absorption capability provided
during switching surges are especially important.
For high voltage levels, the simple construction
of MO arresters is always an advantage.
Arresters with Polymer Housings
Fig. 5.5-2 shows two Siemens MO arresters
with different types of housing. In addition
to what has been usual up to now the porcelain
housing Siemens offers also the latest generation
of high-voltage surge arresters with polymer
housing.
Fig. 5.5-2: Measurement of residual voltage on porcelain-housed
(foreground) and polymer-housed (background) arresters
28
Fig. 5.5-3 shows the sectional view of such an
arrester. The housing consists of a fibre-glass-
reinforced plastic tube with insulating sheds
made of silicon rubber. The advantages of this
design which has the same pressure relief device
as an arrester with porcelain housing are absolutely
safe and reliable pressure relief characteristic,
high mechanical strength even after pressure
relief and excellent pollution-resistant properties.
The very good mechanical features mean that
Siemens arresters with polymer housing (type
3EQ/R) can serve as post insulators as well.
The pollution-resistant properties are the result
of the water-repellent effect (hydrophobicity
of the silicon rubber).
The polymer-housed high-voltage arrester design
chosen by Siemens and the high-quality materials
used by Siemens provide a whole series of advan-
tages including long life and suitability for outdoor
use, high mechanical stability and ease of disposal.
For terminal voltage lower than the permissible
maximum operating voltage (MCOV), the arrester
is capacitive and carries only few milli-amps. Due
to its extreme non-linear characteristics, the arrester
behaves at higher voltages as low-ohmic resistor
and is able to discharge high current surges.
Through parallel combination of two or more
matched arrester columns, higher energy absorption
capability of the ZnO arrester can be achieved.
Routine and type tests have been determined
in accordance with the international standards:
IEC 60060 High-voltage test techniques
IEC 60071 Insulation coordination
IEC 60099 Surge arresters
Fig. 5.5-3: Cross-section of a polymer-housed arrester
Flange with Gas Diverter Nozzle
Seal
Pressure Relief Diaphragm
Compressing Spring
Metal Oxide Resistors
Composite Polymer Housing
FRP Tube/Silicon Sheds
29
AC Filter Bank
AC Bus
Neutral
Neutral
to DC line DC
DC
C
n
AC
Filter
DC
Filter
Valve Hall Boundary
Aa
A
V
V
V
C
V
E E
D D
A
F
ac1
F
ac2
F
dc1
F
dc2
1
2
3
4 5
7
6
9 10 10
11
12
8
8
Arrester Type Location Main Task
AC bus arrester A The ZnO arrester will be installed close to the
converter transformer line side bushing
Limit the overvoltages on the primary and
secondary side of the converter transformer
AC filter bus
arrester Aa
The ZnO arrester will be installed
at the busbar of the AC filter banks
Protect the AC filters busbar
against lightning surges
Valve-arrester V 3-pulse commutation group The main events to be considered with respect
to arrester discharge currents and energies are:
a) Switching surges from the AC system
through converter transformer
b) Ground fault between valve and HV bushing
of converter transformer during rectifier
operation
Converter group
arrester C
12-pulse converter group Protection against overvoltages
from the AC and DC side
DC bus arrester D At the HV smoothing reactor
and at the DC lines
They will protect the smoothing reactor and
the converter station (e.g. DC switchyard)
against overvoltages coming from the DC side
Neutral DC bus
arrester E
Neutral DC bus The neutral bus arresters protect the LV
terminal of the12-pulse group and the neutral
bus equipment
AC filter arrester
F
ac

AC filter The operating voltage for the AC filter arresters
consists of low fundamental frequency and
harmonic voltages. Overvoltages can occur
transiently during faults
DC filter arrester
F
dc

DC filter The operating voltage for the DC filter arresters
consists of low DC component and harmonic
voltages. Overstresses may occur transiently
during DC bus fault to ground
30
5.6 DC Transmission Circuit
5.6.1 DC Transmission Line
DC transmission lines could be part of overall HVDC
transmission contract either within a turnkey package
or as separately contracted stand-alone item, later
integrated into an HVDC link.
As an example of such a transmission line design,
an existing bipolar tower for the 300-kV link
between Thailand and Malaysia is shown in
Fig. 5.6.1-1.
5.6.1.1 Towers
Such DC transmission lines are mechanically
designed as it is practice for normal AC
transmission lines; the main differences are:
The conductor configuration
The electric field requirements
The insulation design
5.6.1.2 Insulation
The most critical aspect is the insulation design and
therefore this topic is described more detailed below:
For DC transmission lines, the correct insulation design
is the most essential subject for an undisturbed oper-
ation during the lifetime of the DC plant.
Design Basics
The general layout of insulation is based
on the recommendations of IEC 60815 which
provides 4 pollution classes.
This IEC is a standard for AC lines. It has to be
observed that the creepage distances recom-
mended are based on the phase-to-phase voltage
(UL-L). When transferring these creepage distances
recommended by IEC 60815 to a DC line, it has
to be observed that the DC voltage is a peak volt-
age pole to ground value (UL-G). Therefore, these
creepage distances have to be multiplied by the
factor 3.
Insulators under DC voltage operation are subjected
to more unfavourable conditions than under AC
due to higher collection of surface contamination
caused by constant unidirectional electric field.
Therefore, a DC pollution factor as per recommen-
dation of CIGRE (CIGRE-Report WG04 of Cigre SC33,
Mexico City 1989) has to be applied.
The correction factors are valid for porcelain insulators
only. When taking composite insulators into consider-
ation, additional reduction factors based on the FGH
report 291 Oberflchenverhalten von Freiluftgerten
mit Kunststoffgehusen must be applied.
Fig. 5.6.1-1: DC transmission line (bipolar tower 300-kV link)
Types of Insulators
There are 3 different types of insulators applicable
for DC transmission lines:
Cap and pin type
Long-rod porcelain type
Composite long-rod type
In detail:
Cap and Pin Type
Positive Aspects:
Long-term experience/track record
Good mechanical strength
Vandalism-proof
Flexibility within the insulator string
Negative Aspects:
Very heavy strings
Insulator not puncture-proof
Poor self-cleaning ability
Loss of strength/reliability due to corrosion
of pin in polluted areas caused by high track
current density (this is extremely important
for DC lines)
Many intermediate metal parts
High RIV and corona level
For DC applications, special shed design
and porcelain material necessary
Very expensive
31
Long-Rod Porcelain Type
Positive Aspects:
Long-term experience/track record
Good mechanical strength
Puncture-proof
Good self-cleaning ability
Less intermediate metal parts
Due to caps on both insulator ends
not subjected to pin corrosion because
of low track current density
Moderate price
Negative Aspects:
Heavy strings
String not very flexible
Under extreme vandalism failure of string
possible
Example/Comparison of Insulator Application for a 400 kV Transmission Line
Cap and Pin Porcelain Long-Rod Composite Long-Rod
Insulator string
length
5270 mm
31 insulators
5418 mm
4 insulators
4450 mm
1 insulator
Creepage per unit
570 mm 4402 mm 17640 mm
Weight of string
332 kg 200 kg 28 kg
Breaking load
160 kN 160 kN 160 kN
Composite Long-Rod Type
Positive Aspects:
Small number of insulators in one string
Up to 400 kV per unit possible
Good mechanical strength, no chipping
of sheds possible
Very light easy handling during construction
and maintenance, logistical advantages in areas
with poor access
Puncture-proof
Good self-cleaning behaviour hydrophobicity
of surface which offers advantages of less
creepage distance up to pollution class II
Very good RIV and corona behaviour
Good resistance against vandalism
Shorter insulator string length
Very competitive price
Negative Aspects:
Relatively short track record in DC application
(since 1985 first major application in the USA)
Less tracking resistance against flash-over
(can be improved by means of corona rings)
5.6.2 DC Cable
5.6.2.1 General Application for DC Cables
An important application for HVDC are transmission
systems crossing the sea. Here, HVDC is the preferred
technology to overcome distances > 70 km and trans-
mission capacities from several hundred to more than
a thousand MW (for bipolar systems). For the submarine
transmission part, a special cable suitable for DC current
and voltage is required.
5.6.2.2 Different Cable Types
For HVDC submarine cables there are different
types available.
1) Mass-Impregnated Cable
This cable type is used in most of the HVDC
applications. It consists of different layers
as shown in Fig. 5.6.2.2-1.
32
The conductor is built of stranding copper layers of
segments around a central circular rod. The conductor
is covered by oil and resin-impregnated papers. The
inner layers are of carbon-loaded papers whereas
the outer layer consists of copper-woven fabrics.
The fully impregnated cable is then lead-sheathed
to keep the outside environment away from the
insulation. The next layer is the anti-corrosion
protection which consists of extruded polyethylene.
Around the polyethylene layer galvanized steel
tapes are applied to prevent the cable from perma-
nent deformation during cable loading. Over the steel
tapes a polypropylene string is applied followed
by galvanized steel wire armour.
The technology is available for voltages up to 500 kV
and a transmission capacity of up to 800 MW in one
cable with installation depths of up to 1000 m under
sea level and nearly unlimited transmission lengths.
The capacity of mass-impregnated cables is limited
by the conductor temperature which results in low
overload capabilities.
2) Oil-Filled Cable
In comparison to mass-impregnated cables,
the conductor is insulated by paper impregnated
with a low-viscosity oil and incorporates a longi-
tudinal duct to permit oil flow along the cable.
Oil-filled cables are suitable for both AC and DC
voltages with DC voltages up to 600 kV DC and
great sea depths. Due to the required oil flow
along the cable, the transmission line lengths
are however limited to <100 km and the risk
of oil leakage into the environment is always
subject to discussions.
5.6.2.3 Future Developments for HVDC Cables
Most of the research and development activities
for new cable types are done with the insulation
material. These include:
1) XLPE
To overcome the disadvantages of the above men-
tioned cable types, extensive R&D was conducted
by the cable suppliers. The result is the XLPE cable.
XLPE means cross-linked polyethylene and forms the
insulation material. The conductor is the segmented
copper conductor insulated by extruded XLPE layers.
The insulation material is suitable for a conductor
temperature of 90 C and a short-circuit temperature
of 250 C. Although the main application for XLPE
cables is the land installation and the offshore industry,
XLPE with extruded insulation material for HVDC
systems of lower transmission capacities are under
development.
2) Lapped Thin Film Insulation
As insulating material a lapped non-impregnated thin
PP film is used instead of the impregnated materials.
The tests for the cable itself are completed. Now the
tests for the accessories such as joints are under
process.
This type of cable can sustain up to 60 % higher
electrical stresses in operation, making it suitable
for very long and deep submarine cables.
Another area of development are the cable arrange-
ments. For monopolar transmission systems, either
the return path was the ground (ground return)
or a second cable. The first solution always provokes
environmental concerns whereas the second one
has excessive impact on the costs for the overall
transmission scheme.
Therefore, a new cable was developed with an inte-
grated return conductor. The cable core is the tradi-
tional design for a mass-impregnated cable and the
return conductor is wound outside the lead sheath.
The conductor forms also part of the balanced armour,
together with the flat steel wire layer on the outside
of the return conductor insulation.
This cable type was installed between Scotland and
Northern Ireland for 250 kV and 250 MW. R&D is on-
going to increase the voltage as well as the capacity
of the cable with integrated return conductor.
Fig. 5.6.2.2-1: Mass-impregnated cable
1 Conductor of copper-shaped wires
2 Insulation material
3 Core screen
4 Lead alloy sheath
5 Polyethylene jacket
6 Reinforcement of steel tapes
7 Bedding
8 Armour of steel flat wires
33
MRTB at Tian Guang/China DC switchyard
5.6.3 High Speed DC Switches
5.6.3.1 General
Like in AC substations, switching devices are also
needed in the DC yard of HVDC stations. One group
of such devices can be characterized as switches
with direct current commutation capabilities,
commonly called high-speed DC switches.
Siemens standard SF
6
AC circuit-breakers of proven
design are able to meet the requirements of high-
speed DC switches.
5.6.3.2 Types and Duties of the High-Speed DC Switches
Type Duties
HSNBS
(High-Speed Neutral Bus Switch)
The HSNBS must commutate some direct current into the ground
electrode path in case of faults to ground at the station neutral.
HSGS
(High-Speed Ground Switch)
The HSGS is needed to connect the station neutral to the station
ground grid if the ground electrode path becomes isolated.
MRTB
(Metallic Return Transfer
Breaker)
If one pole of a bipolar system has to be blocked, monopolar operation
of the second pole is achieved automatically, but with return current
through ground (refer to Fig. 5.6.3-1). If the duration of ground return
operation is restricted, an alternate mode of monopolar operation is
possible if the line of the blocked pole can be used for current return.
This mode is called metallic return (refer to Fig. 5.6.3-1). The MRTB is
required for the transfer from ground to metallic return without inter-
ruption of power flow.
GRTS
(Ground Return Transfer Switch)
The GRTS is needed for the retransfer from metallic return to bipolar
operation via ground return, also without interruption of power flow.
Fig. 5.6.3-1: HVDC system configurations
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
HVDC
Overhead Line
HVDC
Overhead Line
Electrodes
Bipolar
Monopolar ground return
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
Electrodes
HVDC
Overhead Line
HVDC
Overhead Line
Monopolar metallic return
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

1
A
C

S
y
s
t
e
m

2
Electrodes
HVDC
Overhead Line
HVDC
Overhead Line
34
5.6.3.3 Design Considerations
Details regarding the duties of HSNBS and HSGS
are not discussed here but the more severe require-
ments for MRTB and GRTS are explained.
Fig. 5.6.3-2 shows the disposition of MRTB and GRTS.
R
m
and L
m
represent resistance and inductance of the
transmission line. R
e
and L
e
comprise resistances and
inductances of the ground return path.
Fig. 5.6.3-2: Equivalent circuit relevant to MRTB and GRTS operation
l
4
l
3
L
m
R
m
GRTS
MRTB
L
e
R
e
l
0
The ground resistance R
e
is normally much lower than
the metallic resistance R
m
. Therefore, during the transi-
tional steady-state condition with both MRTB and
GRTS closed, most of the current is flowing through
ground which determines the commutation require-
ments for MRTB and GRTS. I
3
may reach values of up
to 90 % of the total current I
0
and I
4
values of up to
25 % of I
0
.
The following considerations refer to MRTB only. From
the above it can be concluded that the commutation
duties for transfer from ground to metallic return (MRTB)
are much heavier than from metallic to ground return
(GRTS).
Fig. 5.6.3-3 shows the basic MRTB circuit. An energy
absorber and the L
p
C
p
resonant circuit (R
p
represents
the ohmic resistance of that branch only) are connected
in parallel to the main switch (MRTB) which is a con-
ventional SF
6
-type AC breaker.
Fig. 5.6.3-3: Details of the MRTB circuit
GRTS
l
4
l
3
L
m
R
m
MRTB
Energy Absorber
L
e
L
p
R
e
R
p
C
p
l
0
Fig. 5.6.3-4: Equivalent circuit relevant to MRTB and GRTS operation
l
3
l
1
L
p
U
arc
C
p
t t
1
t
0
t
c
l
3
l
1
U
arc
U
absorber
With reference to Fig 5.6.3-4, the principle of com-
mutation is as follows: At t
0
, the contacts of the breaker
separate, thereby introducing an arc into the circuit.
The characteristic of this arc sets up an oscillatory
current (frequency determined by L
p
C
p
) which is
superimposed on the current I
1
. As R
p
is very small, the
oscillation is not damped but increases. As soon as the
current I
1
passes through zero (refer to t
1
in Fig. 5.6.3-4),
the breaker current is interrupted. I
3
, however, remains
unchanged now charging the capacitor C
p
until it
reaches a voltage limited by the energy absorber. This
voltage acts as a counter voltage to reduce the current
I
3
and to increase the current I
4
(refer to Fig. 5.6.3-4
and Fig. 5.6.3-3). When the absorber limiting voltage
has been reached, the current I
3
flows into the absorber
which dissipates an amount of energy determined by
the counter voltage to bring I
3
to zero. When I
3
has
dropped to zero, I
4
equals I
0
and the current commu-
tation from ground to metallic return has been com-
pleted. It should be noted that the current I
0
of the
system (refer to Fig. 5.6.3-2) did not change, i.e. the
power transmission was never interrupted.
There are also MRTB principles other than the explained
one which are based on complex resonant circuits,
externally excited with additional auxiliary power
sources. With respect to reliability and availability, the
advantage of the above principle with passive resonant
circuit which is used by Siemens is quite evident. The
nozzle system and specifically the flow of SF
6
gas in the
Siemens standard SF
6
AC breakers result in an arc char-
acteristic which ensures reliable operation of the passive
resonant circuit. One unit of a standard three-phase
AC breaker is used. Extensive series of laboratory tests
have shown the capabilities of Siemens SF
6
breakers
for this application. Furthermore, such switches are
successfully in operation in various HVDC schemes.
35
5.6.4 Earth Electrode
5.6.4.1 Function of the Earth Electrode
in the HVDC System
Earth electrodes are an essential component of
the monopolar HVDC transmission system, since
they carry the operating current on a continuous
basis. They contribute decisively to the profitability
of low-power HVDC systems, since the costs for a
second conductor (with half the nominal voltage)
are significantly higher, even for transmission over
short distances, than the costs for the earth electrodes.
Earth electrodes are also found in all bipolar HVDC
systems and in HVDC multi-point systems. As in any
high-voltage system, the power circuit of the HVDC
system requires a reference point for the definition
of the system voltage as the basis for the insulation
coordination and overvoltage protection. In a bipolar
HVDC system, it would conceivably be possible to
connect the station neutral point to the ground mat
of the HVDC station to which the line-side star points
of the converter transformers are also connected. But
since the direct currents in the two poles of the HVDC
are never absolutely equal, in spite of current balanc-
ing control, a differential current flows continuously
from the station neutral point to ground. It is com-
mon practice to locate the grounding of the station
neutral point at some distance (10 to 50 kilometres)
from the HVDC station by means of special earth
electrodes.
5.6.4.2 Design of Earth Electrodes
Earth electrodes for HVDC systems may be land, coastal
or submarine electrodes. In monopolar HVDC systems,
which exist almost exclusively in the form of sub-
marine cable transmission systems, there are funda-
mental differences between the design of anode
and cathode electrodes.
5.6.4.2.1 The Horizontal Land Electrode
If a sufficiently large area of flat land with relatively
homogeneous ground characteristics is available, the
horizontal ground electrode is the most economical
form of a land electrode.
Fig. 5.6.4-1: Cross section through a horizontal land electrode
1.5 2.5m
Fill
Crushed Stone
Conductor (Iron)
Coke Bed
(5 x 0.5m
2
)
As shown in figure 5.6.4-1, the electrode conductor
itself, which is generally made of iron, is laid horizon-
tally at a depth of approximately 2 m. It is embedded
in coke which fills a trench having a cross section of
approximately 0.5 x 0.5 m
2
.
The advantage of this design becomes apparent in
anodic operation. The passage of the current from
the electrode conductor into the coke bed is carried
primarily by electrons, and is thus not associated
with loss of the material.
Several typical patterns of horizontal land electrodes
are illustrated in figure 5.6.4-2
Fig. 5.6.4-2: Plan view of a typical design of
horizontal land electrodes
a) Line Electrode
b) Multi-Line Electrode
c) Ring-Shaped Electrode
d) Ring-Shaped Electrode with second ring
e) Star-Shaped Electrode
f) Forked Star Electrode
f) e) d) c)
b) a)
5.6.4.2.2 Vertical Land Electrode
If the ground strata near the surface have a high
specific resistance, but underneath, there is a con-
ductive and sufficiently thick stratum at a depth
of several tens of meters, the vertical deep electrode
is one possible solution.
Figure 5.6.4-3 shows, as an example, one of the
four deep electrodes at Apollo, the southern station
of the Cahora Bassa HVDC system.
Fig. 5.6.4-3: Vertical electrode at Apollo, the Southern
Cahora Bassa HVDC station
Manhole
Flexible
Connection
Borehole :
0.57 m
Conductive
Layer
Coarse Grain
Graphite
Crushed
Stone
Graphite Rod
Concrete Cover
Feed Cable
8
0

m
1
0


m
4
0

m
36
5.6.4.2.3 Cathodic Submarine Electrodes
The design and construction of the cathodic submarine
electrodes of a monopolar HVDC system with sub-
marine power transmission cable do not present
any particular problems. Since there is no material
corrosion, a copper cable laid on the bottom should
theoretically suffice. The length of the cable must
be designed so that the current density on its surface
causes an electrical field of < 3 V/m in the surrounding
water, which is also safe for swimmers and divers.
5.6.4.2.4 Anodic Submarine Electrodes
Figure 5.6.4-4 shows an example of a linear submarine
electrode for anodic operation. The prefabricated
electrode modules are lowered to the ocean floor and
then connected to the feed cable. When the submarine
electrodes are divided into sections which are connected
to the HVDC station by means of separate feed cables,
the electrode can be monitored from the land.
5.6.4.2.5 Anodic Coastal Electrode
The conventional design of a coastal electrode is
similar to that of a vertical land electrode. Graphite
rods surrounded by a coke bed are installed in bore-
holes which are sunk along the coastline.
The advantage of the coastal electrodes is easy
accessibility for inspection, maintenance and
regeneration, if necessary.
A coastal electrode can also be configured in the
form of a horizontal land electrode if the ground
has the necessary conductivity or if the necessary
conductivity can be achieved by irrigating the trench
with salt water. In either case, it is assumed that
even with a coastal electrode, the current flow to
the opposite electrode takes place almost exclusively
through the water.
Fig. 5.6.4-4: Linear submarine electrode (anodic operation)
Feed
Cable
Electrode
Module
2 5 m
Cable
Graphite Rod Coke Bed
0.5 1 m
0.5 1 m
Concrete Cover
37
5.7 Control & Protection
5.7.1 General
The WIN-TDC Control and Protection System plays an
important role in the successful implementation of HVDC
transmission systems. High reliability is guaranteed
with a redundant and fault tolerant design. Flexibility
(through choice of optional control centres) and high
dynamic performance were the prerequisites for the
development of our control and protection system.
Knowledge gained from over 30 years of operational
experience and parallel use of similar technology
in related fields has been built into the sophisticated
technology we can offer today.
Main objectives for the implementation of the HVDC
control system are reliable energy transmission
which operates highly efficient and flexible energy
flow that responds to sudden changes in demand
thus contributing to network stability.
All WIN-TDC components from the Human Machine
Interface (HMI) workstations, the control and
protection systems down to the state of the art
measuring equipment for DC current and voltage
quantities have been upgraded to take advantage
of the latest software and hardware developments.
These control and protection systems are based
on standard products with a product life cycle for
the next 25 years.
The control is divided into the following
hierarchical levels:
Operator control level (WIN CC)
Control and protection level (Simatic TDC)
Field level (I/Os, time tagging, interlocking)
Fig. 5.7.1-1: HVDC control hierarchy, one station (bipolar HVDC transmission scheme)
Operator Control Level
Control and
Protection Level
Field Level
Dispatch Centres
WinCC
System 1
WinCC
System 2
Printer Printer GPS
Router Router
Telecommunication Equipment
Remote Control
Interface
System 1
Remote Control
Interface
System 2
Router Router
T
e
l
e
c
o
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n

E
q
u
i
p
m
e
n
t
O
p
p
o
s
i
t
e

C
o
n
v
e
r
t
e
r

S
t
a
t
i
o
n
LAN 1
LAN 2
Common Pole 1 Pole 2
Station Control
System 1
Simatic TDC
Station Control
System 2
Simatic TDC
Pole Control and
DC Protection
System 1
Simatic TDC
Pole Control and
DC Protection
System 2
Simatic TDC
Pole Control and
DC Protection
System 1
Simatic TDC
Pole Control and
DC Protection
System 2
Simatic TDC
TDM Bus TDM Bus
Measuring
System 1
Measuring
System 2
Measuring
System 1
Measuring
System 2
FB1 FB2 FB1 FB2 FB1 FB2
I
O
I
O
I
O
I
O
I
O
I
O
TDM Bus: Time Division Multiplexing Bus (Optical Measuring Bus)
38
In the following section, functions, tasks and
components are described to provide an overview.
5.7.1.1 High Availability
The main design criteria for Siemens HVDC systems
is to achieve maximum energy availability. This applies
to the design of the control and protection systems
as well. A single fault of any piece of equipment in
the control and protection systems may not lead to
a loss of power. Therefore, the primary control and
protection components are configured as redundant
systems.
5.7.1.2 Self-Testing Features
All control and protection systems are equipped
with self-diagnostic features that allow the
operator to quickly identify and replace the
defective part to recover redundancy as soon
as possible.
5.7.1.3 Low Maintenance
With todays digital systems there is no requirement
for routine maintenance. However, should it be
necessary to replace single modules, the design
is such that there is no operational impact on the
HVDC system. This is achieved by designing all
primary components as redundant systems, where
one system can be switched off without impact
on the other system.
5.7.1.4 Best Support Remote Access
As an optional feature, the control system can be
accessed remotely via point-to-point telephone
connection or via Internet. This allows remote plant
monitoring and fault detection including diagnostics.
To ensure the data security, a VPN (Virtual Private
Network) encrypted connection is used. Furthermore,
a password protected access ensures that only autho-
rized personnel have access.
With the use of a standard web browser, main
diagnosis data can be monitored. Expert access
to the control components is also possible. This
remote access feature provides flexible support
for the commissioning and maintenance personnel
by our design engineers.
5.7.1.5 Modular Design
The control and protection systems use multiprocessor
hardware. This means that the computing capacity
can be scaled according to the requirements.
Therefore, the most economic solution can be found
at the start. Additional computing capacity can be
added at any time later, if required.
5.7.1.6 Communication Interfaces
The control and protection systems as well as the
operator control system communicate via Ethernet
or Profibus. For remote control interfacing, a number
of standard protocols are available. Custom protocols
can be implemented as an option.
Fig. 5.7.1-2: Remote access connection
Internet
39
5.7.2 Control Components
5.7.2.1 Operator Control System
The tasks of a modern operation and monitoring
system within the HVDC control system include
the following:
Status information of the system
Operator guidance to prevent maloperation
and explain conditions
Monitoring of the entire installation and
auxiliary equipment
Graphic display providing structural overview
of the entire system
Troubleshooting support with clear messages
to quickly resume operation
Display and sorting of time tagged events
(time is synchronised via GPS clock)
Display and archiving of messages
Automatic generation of process reports
Fig. 5.7.1-3: Operator workstation, typical screen layout
for a monopolar HVDC system overview
Fig. 5.7.1-4: Sequence of events recording (SER),
report layout for SER information
40
Analysis of operating mode based on user-
defined and archived data (trend system)
Generation of process data reports
5.7.2.2 Control and Protection System Level
The primary tasks in this level are:
Measuring
Control of Power Transmission
Protection
Measuring
DC values are measured by means of the hybrid optical
DC measuring system. This system measures the
voltage drop over a shunt or a voltage divider,
converts this voltage into a telegram and transfers
it to the measurement cubicle via fibre optics.
The scheme is designed to be completely redundant,
therefore loss of a signal does not lead to an impact
on power transmission. This measuring principle
contributes to an increased availability of the control
and protection scheme.
The advantages of such a scheme are:
Reduced weight (100 kg)
Linear response (passive system)
Improved EMC (due to fibre optics)
Integrated harmonic measurement (Rogowsky coil)
for use in active filters or harmonic monitoring
schemes.
Fig. 5.7.1-5: Trend system, example for trend display


duplicated sensor head redundant channel
Optical
Digital
Optical
Energy Power
supply
Digital
Control/
Protection
System
Electrical
Energy
Measuring Cubicle
Signal fibre
Power fibre
Fibre optic cable
Analog / Digital
Digital / Optical
Electrical Energy
Optical Energy
Sensor Head
Sensor Head Box at high voltage level
Shunt
Id
41
Control of Power Transmission
The pole control system is responsible for firing
the thyristor valves so that the requested power is
transmitted. The pole controls on each side of the
transmission link therefore have to fulfill different
tasks. The pole control system on the rectifier side
controls the current so that the requested power
is achieved. The pole control system on the inverter
side controls the DC voltage so that rated DC voltage
is achieved.
The pole control is implemented redundantly.
A failure in one system thus has no impact on
power transmission.
This system can be repaired while the other system
remains in operation. In bipolar schemes a redundant
pole control system is assigned to each pole. Failures
in one pole will not have any impact on the remaining
pole.
Protection
The DC protection system has the task of protecting
equipment and personnel. The protection systems can
be divided into two areas, which are subsequently
divided into different protection zones.
The HVDC-related protection functions are referred
to as DC protection. These include converter protection,
DC busbar protection, DC filter protection, electrode
line protection and DC line protection.
The AC protection scheme consists mainly of the
AC busbar, the AC line and the AC grid transformer
protection as well as the AC filter protection and
converter transformer protection.
The task of the protective equipment is to prevent
damage of individual components caused by faults
or overstresses.
Each protection zone is covered by at least two inde-
pendent protective units the primary protective
unit and the secondary (or back-up) protective unit.
Comprehensive system monitoring and measurement
plausibility functions are implemented in the protection
systems. This serves to prevent false trips due to
singular equipment failure.
The protection functions of the various protective
relays are executed reliably for all operating condi-
tions. The selected protective systems ensure that
all possible faults are detected, annunciated and
cleared selectively.
Fig. 5.7.1-7: Redundant pole control system
structure (for one 12-pulse group)
Red. Field Bus
12-Pulse Group
Fibre Optic
Valve Base
Electronic
Valve Base
Electronic
System
Selection
Control
Pole
Control
Converter
Control
Pole
Control
Converter
Control
S
y
s
t
e
m

1
S
y
s
t
e
m

1
S
y
s
t
e
m

2
S
y
s
t
e
m

2
Redundant Local Area Network
Fig. 5.7.1-8: Protection zones, one pole/one station
1 AC Busbar Protection
2 AC Line Protection
3 AC Filter Protection
4 Converter Transformer Protection
5 Converter Protection
6 DC Busbar Protection
7 DC Filter Protection
8 Electrode Line Protection
9 DC Line Protection
1
4
5
8
6
7
2
3
9
42
Fig. 5.7.1-9: Real-time simulator
All protective equipment in the HVDC converter
station is implemented either with digital multi-
microprocessor systems or with digital Siemens
standard protective relays. The DC protection is
designed to be fully redundant. Additionally both
protection systems incorporate main and back-up
protection functions using different principles.
The AC protection con-sists of a main and back-up
system using different principles. Each protective
system is assigned its own measuring devices as
well as power supplies.
5.7.3 Control Aspects
5.7.3.1 Redundancy
All control and protection systems that contribute
to the energy availability are configured redundantly.
This covers any single faults in the control and pro-
tection equipment without loss of power.
5.7.3.2 Operator Training
For Siemens HVDC application, an operator training
simulator is optionally available. The simulator allows
the operator to train with the same hardware and
software as in the real process. This simulator consists
of the original operator workstation and a simulation
PC. The simulation PC runs the HVDC process and
feeds the relevant data to the workstation.
5.7.4 Testing and Quality Assurance
The design process has a number of defined review
steps. These allow verification of the control and
protection system functionality and performance
before delivery to site (see figure 5.7.1-10).
Already along with the tender, the use of accurate
simulation tools allows to answer specific perfor-
mance issues that are vital to the customers grid.
5.7.4.1 Offline Simulation EMTDC
Siemens uses a simulation model that includes
all details of control and protection functionality
in detail. Thus forecast of real system behaviour
is reliable. Therefore it is possible to optimize
the application to find the best economic solution
while providing the optimum performance.
5.7.4.2 Dynamic Performance Test
The offline simulation with EMTDC is already an
extremely accurate forecast of the real system
behaviour. To verify the findings and optimize
the controller settings, the control and protection
systems are additionally tested during the dynamic
performance test with a real-time simulator. During
that phase, the customer may witness these perfor-
mance tests of the final control and protection
software.
43
5.7.4.3 Functional Performance Test
In the functional performance test, the dedicated
control and protection hardware is installed and
tested with a real-time simulator. The purpose of
the FPT is to test the proper signal exchange between
the various control components as well as the verifi-
cation of the specified control sequences. This allows
optimized commissioning time. Furthermore, customer
personnel can participate in this test for operator
training and become familiar with the control system.
Fig. 5.7.1-11: Example of a functional performance test setup
Fig. 5.7.1-10: The main steps for the HVDC control and protection versus the time starting from the contract award
up to commercial operation
5.7.4.4 On-Site Tests
On-site tests are basically divided into test steps
regarding the related station (station A, station B)
and into the test steps related to the whole HVDC
system.
At the precommissioning stage, the base work for
commissioning the control system and protection
system is required. The main task is preparation
and individual testing of any single system.
This is required to assure the systems are free of
transportation damage. The next station-related tests
are the subsystem tests. Subsystems consist of equip-
ment items which are grouped according to common
functions like AC filter banks or thyristor valve systems.
The main task is testing the proper function of inter-
connected systems before switching on high voltage.
Following this, station tests with high voltage but
no energy transfer will take place. Finally, system
and acceptance tests with several operating points
of energy transfer will be used for fine tuning and
verification of system performance.
*) EMTDC: Electro Magnetic Transient Program for DC Application
Contract Operation
Design
specification
Software design
and pre-testing
On-site
tests
Hardware
design
Cubicle
manufact.
EMTDC* Control and
Protection study
Real time
off-site tests:
Functional and
Dynamic
Performance
44
6.1 System Studies
During the planning stage of a HVDC project, prelimi-
nary studies are carried out in order to establish the
basic design of the whole HVDC transmission project.
This includes the co-ordination of all relevant technical
parts of the transmission system like HVDC converters,
AC and DC overhead lines as well as the submarine
cable, if applicable. All specified requirements will be
taken into account and are the basis for the preliminary
design of the HVDC transmission link. In addition,
special attention is paid to improving the stability of
both connected AC systems. Several additional control
functions like power modulation, frequency control
and AC voltage limiter can be included in order to
provide excellent dynamic behaviour and to assist
the AC systems if the studies show it necessary. Sub-
synchronous oscillation will be avoided by special
control functions, if required. All the AC system con-
ditions and the environmental conditions as given
in the relevant documents will be considered in the
design calculations. The final design of the HVDC
transmission system, including the operation charac-
teristics, will be defined during the detailed system
studies. All necessary studies are carried out to
confirm the appropriate performance requirements
and ratings of all the equipment. Due consideration
is given to the interaction with the AC systems on
both sides, the generation of reactive power, system
frequency variations, overvoltages, short circuit
levels and system inertia during all system
configurations.
Typically the following studies are carried out:
a) Main Circuit Parameters
b) Power Circuit Arrangements
c) Thermal Rating of Key Equipment
d) Reactive Power Management
e) Temporary Overvoltages
and Ferro-Resonance Overvoltages
f) Overvoltage Protection
and Insulation Coordination
g) Transient Current Requirements
h) AC Filter Performance and Rating
i) DC Filter Performance and Rating
j) AC Breaker and DC High-Speed
Switch Requirements
k) Electromagnetic Interference
l) Reliability and Availability calculations
m) Loss Calculation
n) Subsynchronous Resonance
o) Load Flow, Stability and Interaction
between different HVDC Systems
p) Audible Noise
6.2 Digital Models
Digital models of HVDC system can be developed
according to the specified requirements. Typically
a digital model of dc system is needed for a specific
load flow and stability simulation program, while
another digital model is required for simulation in
a typical electromagnetic transients program such
as EMTDC. The functionality and settings of HVDC
control and protection system will be represented
in a proper manner in such models, which allow
suitable simulation of steady state and transient
behavior of HVDC system in the corresponding digi-
tal programs. Digital models consistent with the
actual dc control and protection system are benefi-
cial both for the operation of the HVDC scheme and
for the network studies including DC link. Typically
such models can be developed on request in the
detailed project design stage when all major design
works of control and protection functions are
completed.
6.3 Control and Protection Design Specifications
Design Specifications are written for the control,
protection and communication hardware and soft-
ware. The control panels are then designed, manu-
factured inspected and tested in accordance to the
design specification. The software for the control
and protection is also written in accordance to the
design specification. It is tested using real time
simulators in the dynamic performance test and
functional performance test.
Specifications for the topics below are typically
written:
a) General Control and Protection
b) Interface Systems
c) Station Control
d) Diagnosis Systems
e) Pole Control
f) HVDC Protection
g) AC Protection
h) Metering and Measuring
i) Operator Control
j) Communication
6 System Studies, Digital Models,
Design Specifications
45
7 Project Management
7.1 Project Management in HVDC Projects
The success and functional completion of large
projects depends on the structuring of the project
team in accordance with the related work and
manpower coordination. Periodical updates and
adaptation of design guarantee the execution of
the project with constant high quality within the
target time frame. Throughout all production, work-
ing process and on-site activities, health, safety and
environmental protection (HSE) measures as well
as application of commonly agreed quality standards
such as DIN EN ISO 9001 are of prime importance
to Siemens.
7.1.1 Division Responsibilities
The overall project is divided and organised according
to design activities and technical component groups.
These features make it possible to define clear function
packages which are to a great extent homogeneous
within themselves and can be processed with mini-
mised interfaces.
Fig.7-1: Project organisation plan
Quality
Assurance
Procurement
Control & Protection
Engineering
Commercial
Financing
Transient Network
Analyser
Functional
Performance Test
Commissioning
Communication
Systems
Project Management
Technical Commercial
Project Manager Project Manager
Basic Design Station Design
Civil Engineering
Civil Construction
Installation
Main
Components
Logistic
Documentation
Training
7.1.2 Transparency
A clear process structure plan (PSP) standardised
for HVDC projects makes the project contents and
sequences transparent in their commercial and
technical aspects. Associations and interactions
are clarified according to procedure of work.
7.1.3 Risk reduction
Any risks that could arise due to incorrect deadlines,
unclear technical concepts or excessive costs will be
recognised early enough by a monitoring system so
that counter measures can be taken. This increases
contract quality and creates the basis for clear design
criteria.
7.1.4 Progress Report
Periodical meetings with subcontractors, in-house
control working teams and customer are recorded
in progress reports which form an integral part of
the quality insurance system.
46
7.1.5 Scheduling
The hierarchically structured bar-chart schedule
is a high-level control tool in project management.
The clear structure of sequential processes and
parallel activities is crucial for execution of a 24
to 36 month duration, according to the project
requirements.
Activity Time
Award of Contract
Engineering/System
Studies
Manufacturing
Transportation
Civil Works &
Buildings
Erection &
Precommissioning
Station Tests
System Tests
Commercial
Operation
Fig.7-2: Structured bar-chart timeschedule
Deadlines for project decisions especially those of
the critical path can easily be identified enabling the
project manager to make up-to date pre-estimates
and initiate suitable measures in due time.
47
Published by and copyright 2011:
Siemens AG
Energy Sector
Freyeslebenstrasse 1
91058 Erlangen, Germany
Siemens AG
Energy Sector
Power Transmission Division
Power Transmission Solutions
Freyeslebenstrasse 1
91058 Erlangen, Germany
www.siemens.com/energy/hvdc
For more information, please contact
our Customer Support Center.
Phone: +49 180/524 70 00
Fax: +49 180/524 24 71
(Charges depending on provider)
E-mail: [email protected]
Power Transmission Division
Order No. E50001-G610-A107-V1-4A00 | Printed in Germany |
Dispo 30003 | c4bs No. 7805 |
TH 150-110670 | W | 472547 | WS | 09111.0
Printed on elementary chlorine-free bleached paper.
All rights reserved.
Trademarks mentioned in this document
are the property of Siemens AG, its affiliates,
or their respective owners.
Subject to change without prior notice.
The information in this document contains general
descriptions of the technical options available, which
may not apply in all cases. The required technical
options should therefore be specified in the contract.