High Voltage Modeling and Testing of Transformer, Line Interface Devices, and Bulk System Components Under Electromagnetic Pulse, Geomagnetic Disturbance, and other Abnormal Transients
This project aims at quantitatively analyzing possible knowledge gaps related to the risk of Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) impact on high-voltage, power transformers (transmission-class), that represent the most critical power grid assets. In relation to the electric infrastructure, some past studies indicate that the grid is overall fairly robust and resilient against most EMP threats. This assessment stems, in part, from estimates of the peak voltage that can be induced on a transmission power line for a nominal EMP fast-transient, compared with the typically very high basic insulation level that is featured by the high-voltage infrastructure. The project provides additional insight toward a more comprehensive risk evaluation of the grid EMP and Geomagnetic Disturbances (GMD) vulnerabilities. This work is aligned with the U.S. Dept. of Energy current research thrust in support of the development of a highly secure and resilient power infrastructure. Project milestones have been devised to address the fundamental technical issues in support of protection of large power transformer against EMP threats. More specifically, this project included parallel research tasks focused on the following topics: analysis of EMP-induced, fast-transient, current and voltages on a variety of power line configurations and EMP impact scenarios, detailed characterization of EMP damage potential due to the voltage surge, from the impact on the power line, to the transformer windings, GMD and EMP slow transients and impact from harmonics generation and reactive power flow on a complex grid layout, and identification of risk mitigation paths, with emphasis on GIC damage prevention for large power transformers, and on impact protection options from a grid stability perspective.
- Research Organization:
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Electricity (OE)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-00OR22725
- OSTI ID:
- 1515663
- Report Number(s):
- ORNL/TM-2019/1143
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Optimal Transmission Line Switching under Geomagnetic Disturbances
Effects of geomagnetic disturbances on electric power transmission systems