Technical Presentations

Real Case of a Resonance in a Power Plant851

Abstract
Overvoltages were identified on the MV and LV networks of a Hydro Power Plant as the cause of the trip of the LV maximum voltage protection, compromising the normal operation of the system. Following ... see morethis event, measurements were conducted and the presence of a very high 23rd harmonic, potentially responsible for the various overvoltages, was identified associated to the operation of the Plant’s Synchronous Machine Frequency Control System (FCS). It was concluded then that this harmonic would have its origin in the FCS and would be amplified due to a possible resonance in the Power Plant internal network. A digital simulation study, using EMTP, was conducted to identify and characterize the resonance in the system and to propose mitigation solutions. The simulation models were developed using the equipment data and the system characteristics. The models were duly validated with measurements made both in time and frequency domains and it was possible to identify the origin of the overvoltages and their propagation in the system. It was concluded that the resonance occurred between a 30/11 kV Power Transformer and a 30 kV cable with 850 m.

This conclusion was supported by the results obtained in the measurements. Several alternatives were analyzed as mitigation solutions: - Installation of capacitors; - Different bonding techniques of the 30 kV cable sheaths; - Changing the 30 kV cable length; - Installation of a harmonic filter; The advantages and disadvantages of each solution were weighed also considering the ease of implementation, namely the available room. It was concluded that the installation of capacitors would be the best option. Measurements were conducted after the capacitor’s installation confirming the success of this solution.

Tag(s): harmonics, power uality, resonance