A TUTORIAL FOR

APPLYING THE ALTERNATIVE TRANSIENTS

PROGRAM (ATP) TO PROTECTION ANALYSIS

Publication Details Abstract

Jared Mraz, P.E. ATP-EMTP, based on the work of Dr. Hermann Dommel and Dr. Scott Meyer, is a royalty-
Senior Project Engineer free software called Alternative Transients Program (ATP) that incorporates much of the
POWER Engineers, Inc. capability of commercial electromagnetic transient analysis software but isn’t as well
PH (509) 780-0035
known outside of academia. There are three separate programs that, when used together,
email: jared.mraz@
provide a complete ATP-EMTP suite: ATP Analyzer, the electromagnetic transients analysis
powereng.com
tool; ATPDraw, a graphical ATP modeling tool; and PlotXY, which provides powerful
Aaron Findley, P.E. plotting of ATP binary output. ATP provides the capability to model simple to complex
Senior Project Engineer electrical systems and run various transient simulations. The process to download and
POWER Engineers, Inc. install ATP is complicated, so a brief introduction to software setup is given.
PH (503) 892-6728
email: aaron.findley@ A common usage of ATP is to model self and mutual impedances of transmission
powereng.com lines for use in line relay setting and power flow simulation programs. ATP gives very
accurate impedance solutions without the chore of hand calculations or building
Morgan Brimstein
Project Engineer symmetrical component calculations. After the model is constructed, ATP allows the
POWER Engineers, Inc. user to easily adjust parameters if changes occur during the line design or as-build
PH (208) 288-6413 process and perform what-if analysis.
email: morgan.brimstein@
powereng.com ATP also has the capability to model power system components and instrument
transformers in greater detail than typical steady-state analysis software. ATP also
has some built-in protective relay models for commonly used elements such as time
overcurrent, differential, and distance elements. This allows the user to study protection
system operation during transient conditions. Simulation results, such as secondary
currents and voltages, can be exported in Common Format for Transient Data Exchange
(COMTRADE) format from ATP and played back to a microprocessor-based relay using
commonly available test sets to test the operation of the relay under various conditions.
This can be advantageous for engineers who do not have access to hardware-in-the-loop
(HIL) simulators but have a need to simulate relay response to non-sinusoidal waveforms
and other complex system phenomena.

This tutorial will cover using ATP for line modeling and some example line modeling
applications such as line constants and OPGW sizing. This tutorial will also cover
how ATP can be used to provide proof-of-concept for protection system operation
when HIL simulations aren’t practical or available. Results of ATP simulations will be
compared against results of HIL simulation for recently completed testing of a zone
interlocking scheme.

For protection engineers, ATP is a powerful tool that may be used to improve accuracy
and decrease time spent performing power system calculations.

Introduction to ATP
The Alternative Transients Program (ATP) is a universal program system for digital
simulation of transient phenomena of electromagnetic as well as electromechanical
nature. With this digital program, complex networks and control systems can be
simulated. ATP has been continuously developed through international contributions
 by Drs. W. Scott Meyer and Tsu-huei Liu, the co-Chairmen of the Canadian/American
Electromagnetic Transients Program (EMTP) User Group. ATP licenses are free of
charge for all who have not engaged in EMTP commerce and can be obtained from
the Canadian/American EMTP User Group, or an authorized regional users group.
ATP licensing is mandatory prior to receiving any materials. Following the license
agreement approval by an authorized user group, you are eligible to use the ATP
program and all ATP related tools. The Appendix of this paper has a tutorial on how
to install ATP. This is not the only resource available for installation instructions and
installation can be customized.

ATPDraw is a graphical, mouse-driven preprocessor to the ATP version of the EMTP on

of a probe and which phases will be illustrated inthe
theMS-Windows platform.
CT saturation andThe program
CCVT was written
transients in with
starts Borland
theDelphi 2007 and runs
transformer
output file. under Windows
building feature. Power system tools is where the user can addIn ATPDraw,
9x/NT/2000/XP/Vista as well as under emulators in LINUX.
the user can construct
protective an electrical
relay circuit by selecting components from the various
components.
of phases of a probe and which phases willbelow.
device menus illustrated in the figures be illustrated in the CT saturation and CCVT transient
graphical outputAfter
file. the user runs a simulation, ATP provides
building feature. Power system too
various
System Modeling Tutorial protective relay components.
options for viewing the results. The commands for running the
This section serves asand
simulation a reference
viewingto the very initial
results stagesunder
are found of system
“ATP”modeling
as using
ATP. Thisshown
may vary depending on the analysis the user is building a After
model the
for.user
The runs a simulat
in Figure 3.
figures below show some typical equipment that would be used in a basic system the results. Th
options for viewing
simulation and viewing results a
model. Right clicking in the blank area of the ATPDraw screen will give the user the
shown in Figure 3.
options shown in Figure 1.

The following paragraphs will summarize the tools and components that are discussed
in this paper and some of the most useful features. Please note there are many other
components in the menu in Figure 1 that have not been used for this paper’s application
but could be useful.

Probes and 3 phase will give the user the opportunity to place probes which can
monitor node or branch current and voltages. In the Probe dialog, the user can specify
the number of phases of a probe and which phases will be illustrated in the graphical
output file.

Branch Linear is a tool that allows the user to place a resistor, capacitor, or inductor into
the system model. Branch non-linear has multi-phase nonlinear R and L components,
and nonlinear inductors include an input for the initial conditions for the flux linkage.

Lines/Cables is used to build transmission line models. These can be applied to a

Figure 1: ATP models variety of studies including but not limited to line constants calculations or an Optical
Figure 1: ATP Models Figure 1: ATP models
Ground Wire (OPGW) thermal analysis.

Figure 3: Running ATP Figure 3: Run

One feature of ATP is PlotXY which is a programOne used to of ATP is PlotXY

feature
make plots that pull data from the current and voltage probes
make plots that pull data from the
which allows the user to plot those variables in a which
graph.allows
Once the user to plot those
“Run ATP” is selected, and the model successfully “Run ATP” is selected, and the m
completes
the simulation,
the simulation, the user can select “run Plot” to be able to select the user can select “
the specific
the specific current and voltage variables of interest. Thecurrent and voltage
PlotXY function is shown in Figur
PlotXY function is shown in Figure 4.
Another way to obtain results
Another way to obtain results from ATP is inwhich the .lis
is file
produced upon running
Figure 2: Probe menu
Figure 2: Probe menu which
Figure 2: Probe Menuis produced upon running a simulation. This file is
typically stored on your computer
typically
Branch Linear is astored on your
tool that allowscomputer
the user C to drive
place ina thethat
ATP folder when installing the
is created
h Linear is a tool that allows the user to place that is or
a capacitor,
resistor, created
inductorwhen into installing
their system themodel
software.
whileThe provide
.lis file the
will user with simulatio
capacitor, or inductor into their system modelbranch provide has
while non-linear the multi-phase
user with nonlinear
simulationR solutions
and L including
susceptance theand impedance matrix
non-linear hasPOWERENG.COM
multi-phase nonlinear R and components,
L susceptance A Tutorial
and nonlinear and for Applying
inductors
impedance the Alternative
which includes
matrix forTransients
an
LCCinputProgram (ATP) to Protection Analysis
components. 2

nts, and nonlinear inductors which includes anforinput

the initial conditions for the flux linkage.
 • Zstd = is the sum
internal resistanc
• A value of Vs
expected to satur
ration and CCVT transients starts with the transformer
feature. Power system tools is where the user can add
ve relay components. The ANSI accuracy ra
Transformers and power system tools will be the most widely discussed forfeature in this
potential saturation, th
paper. Transformers provides several options for single and three-phase more detailed assessment
transformers
r the user runs a simulation, ATP provides various
as well as hybrid transformers, and saturable transformers. Analyzing CTfrom the CT
saturation andexcitation
for viewing the results. The commands for running the
availabletools
CCVT transients starts with the transformer building feature. The power system in most cases. T
on and viewing results are found under “ATP” as relationship between the
tab is where the user can add protective relay components.
n Figure 3. voltages. An example e
After the user runs a simulation, ATP provides various options for viewingFigure
the results.
5.
The commands for running the simulation and viewing results are found under “ATP” as
shown in Figure 3.

PlotXY is a program feature of ATP used to make plots that pull data from the current and
voltage probes. This allows the user to plot those variables in a graph. After “Run ATP” is
selected, and the model successfully completes the simulation, the user can select “run
Plot” to be able to select the specific current and voltage variables of interest. The PlotXY
function is shown in Figure 4. Figure 4: PlotXY

Another way to obtain results from ATP is in the .lis file, which is produced upon running
a simulation. This file is typically stored on your computer C drive in the ATP folder that
III. CURRENT TRANSFORMER SATURATION
is created when installing the software. The .lis file will provide the user with simulation
solutions,Current transformers
including are a critical
the susceptance component
and impedance in protection
matrix for LCC components.
systems, transforming primary system current down to a level
that is suitable for input to a protective relay (usually 1A or 5A).
Current Transformer
Current transformers Saturation
using an iron core have a nonlinear
Figure
Current magnetizing
transformers reactance. Under
are a critical steady state
component conditionssystems,
in protection current transforming
primary transformers
system current typically
downoperate
to a level wellthatbelow saturation
is suitable however,
for input to a protective
Therelay
excitation curve
(usually during
1A orhigh
5A).current
Currentfaults and faultsusing
transformers with ansignificant
iron coreDC offset,
have a nonlinear magnetizing
linear magnetizing reactan
the core
reactance. of asteady
Under currentstate
transformer
conditions, can saturate. During saturation
current transformers in Figurewell
typically operate 6 showing the C
the secondary current will no longer
below saturation. However, during high current faults and be an exact replica
faultsofwith
the significant
an idealDC
transformer, and t
Figure 3: Running ATP offset,primary
the corecurrent and the
of a current resulting can
transformer errorsaturate.
can be problematic
During saturationin the secondaryLp
Figure 3: Running ATP
critical protection functions.
current will no longer be an exact replica of the primary current and the resulting error
Rp
feature of ATP is PlotXY which is a program usedcan to be problematic in critical protection functions.
ots that pull data from the current and voltage probes The performance of current transformers is commonly
llows the user to plot those variables in a graph. Once • Ipri = the
documented
The performance primary
ofvia the current
current ANSI/IEEErating of accuracy
transformers the
is CT (e.g.class.
commonly 3000A The ANSI via the ANSI/
documented
for a 3000:5
rating provides CT).
sufficient information to estimate theinformation
likelihood to estimate the
TP” is selected, and the model successfully completes IEEE accuracy class. The ANSI rating provides sufficient
ulation, the user can select “run Plot” to be able to select a• CTaZbCT
likelihood
= thesaturate
willwill
total secondary
saturate based
based
burden
on on the
the
including
available
available
the relay,
fault
fault current and
current and secondary burden.
leads, and CT resistance.
cific current and voltage variables of interest. The secondary
By definition, burden. By definition, an ANSI C200 CT is capable
• Zstdan= ANSI C200
is the sum ofCTthe is capable
accuracy of burden
class delivering 200 V to a standard burden, at
and CT
function is shown in Figure 4. 20 times of delivering
rated secondary
internal 200V current
resistance. to a standard
without burden,
experiencing at 20moretimesthanrated
10% error. Using the
Figure
C-rating,secondary
• burden, current
A valuefaultof Vs without
greaterand
current, experiencing
thanX/R20ratio
indicates more than
the CT is
an estimate 10% error.
of the likelihood of saturation
Using the using
C-rating, burden, fault current, and X/R ratio an ATP includes a satur
ther way to obtain results from ATP is in the .lis file can be obtainedexpected to saturate.
Equation 1.1
estimate of the likelihood of saturation can be obtained using that can simulate the non
s produced upon running a simulation. This file is equation 1, from [1]. based on current and volt
y stored on your computer C drive in the ATP folder The ANSI accuracy rating provides 
a good initial screening
  characteristic.
reated when installing the software. The .lis file willfor potential saturation,  1it   ∗ conservative.Equation
though is generally A 1 (1)
more detailed assessment of CT performance  canbe obtained The Single phase, satu
the user with simulation solutions including thefrom the CT excitation characteristic, which is also readily in the transformer drop do
ance and impedance matrix for LCC components. Where :Where:
available in most cases. The excitation characteristic plots the the model include the pr
relationship
If = the If = the
between
• current current in primary
the secondary
in primary amps. amps.current and
excitation well as RMS current and
voltages. An example excitation characteristic is shown in characteristic.
Ipri = the primary current rating of the CT (e.g. 3000A for a 3000:5 CT).
Figure 5.
Zb = the total secondary burden including the relay, leads, and CT resistance.
3
Zstd = is the sum of the accuracy class burden and CT internal resistance.

A value of Vs greater than 20 indicates the CT is expected to saturate.

Figure 4: PlotXY
Figure 4: PlotXY

III. CURRENT TRANSFORMER SATURATION

Current transformers are a critical component in protection
stems, transforming primary system current down to a level
at is suitable for input to a protective relay (usually 1A or 5A).
POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 3
urrent transformers using an iron core have a nonlinear
Figure 5: CT excitation curve
agnetizing reactance. Under steady state conditions current
 The ANSI • accuracy ratingcurrent
Ipri = the primary provides
rating ofathe
good initial
CT (e.g. 3000A screening
for potential saturation, though it is generally conservative. A
for a 3000:5 CT).
• Zb = the total secondary burden including the relay,
more detailed assessment of CT performance can be obtained
leads, and CT resistance.
from the CT • excitation characteristic,
Zstd = is the sum of the accuracy classwhich
burdenisandalso
CT readily
The ANSI accuracy rating provides a good initial screening for potential saturation,
available in most
though it is generally
cases. The
internal resistance. excitation characteristic plots the
• conservative.
A value of A Vsmore detailed
greater than assessment
20 indicatesofthe
CT performance
CT is
relationship
can be obtained frombetween
the tothe
CT excitation
expected secondary which
characteristic,
saturate. excitation current
is also readily availableand
in
voltages. An example excitation characteristic is shown in
most cases. The excitation characteristic plots the relationship between the secondary
excitation current and voltages. An example excitation characteristic is shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5. The ANSI accuracy rating provides a good initial screening
for potential saturation, though it is generally conservative. A
more detailed assessment of CT performance can be obtained
from the CT excitation characteristic, which is also readily
available in most cases. The excitation characteristic plots the
relationship between the secondary excitation current and
voltages. An example excitation characteristic is shown in
Figure 5.

Figure 4: PlotXY

Figure 4: PlotXY
RANSFORMER SATURATION
re a critical component in protection
mary system current
III. CURRENT down toSATURATION
TRANSFORMER a level
a protective relay (usually 1A or 5A). in protection
Current transformers are a critical component
systems, transforming primary system current down to a level
ng ansuitable
that is ironforcore
input tohave a nonlinear
a protective relay (usually 1AFigure 5: CT Excitation Curve
or 5A). Figure 5: CT excitation curve
nder
Currentsteady stateusing
transformers conditions
an iron corecurrent
have a nonlinear
Figure 5: CT excitation curve
magnetizing
erate reactance.saturation
well below Under steadyhowever,
state conditions current
transformers typically operate well below saturation however, The excitation
The excitation curve
The can be curve
usedcurve
excitation
can
to model be
can the
used
CTs
be used
to model
nonlinear the CTs
to model magnetizing
the CTs non-
non-
reactance.
and
duringfaults with faults
high current significant
and faultsDC
with offset,
significant DC linear
offset, magnetizing
A simplified CT model is reactance.
depicted in FigureA 6simplified
showing the CT
CT model
primary
linear magnetizing reactance. A simplified CT model is depicted andis depicted
secondary
ormer
the core can saturate.
of a current During
transformer can saturation in Figurean
saturate. During saturation
impedances, in6Figure
showing
ideal thethe
transformer,
6 showing CT
and primary
CTthe and
magnetization
primary and secondary
branch.
secondary impedances,
impedances,
the secondary current will no longer be an exact replica of the an ideal transformer, and the magnetization branch.
no longer be an exact replica of the
primary current and the resulting error can be problematic an ideal
in transformer, and the magnetization branch.
esulting error can be
critical protection functions. problematic in Lp Ls
Rp Lp Rs Ls
ns.
The performance of current transformers is commonly Rp Rs
documented via the ANSI/IEEE accuracy class. The ANSI Lm Rm Burden
current transformers
rating provides is commonly
sufficient information to estimate the likelihood
SI/IEEE accuracy
a CT will saturate basedclass.
on the The ANSI
available fault current and Lm Rm Burden
secondary burden. By definition, an ANSI C200 CT is capable
nformation to estimate
of delivering 200V the likelihood
to a standard
Figure 6: CT Equivalent Circuit
burden, at 20 times rated Figure 6: CT equivalent circuit
on the current
secondary available
withoutfault current
experiencing moreand
than 10% error.
Using thean C-rating, ATP includes a saturable transformer model, TRAFO_S,
inition, ANSIburden,C200fault
CT current, and X/R ATP
is capable ratioincludes
an a saturable transformer model, TRAFO_S, that can simulate the nonlinear
that can simulate the nonlinear characteristic of the CT core
estimate of the likelihood of saturation can be obtained using
standard burden,
equation 1, from [1]. at 20 times rated characteristic of the CT core based on current and voltage data available from the
based on current
excitation characteristic.
Figure 6: CTdata
and voltage equivalent circuit
available from the excitation
characteristic.
t experiencing more
 1 than

 ∗ 10% error.
 
(1)

en, fault current, and X/R ratio an
  ATP
The Single includes
phase, The Singlea
saturable saturable
phase, saturable
transformer transformer
modeltransformer
can be found inmodel,
model TRAFO_S,
cantransformer
the be found drop
Where: that can the
down menu ofin the transformer
simulate
ATPDraw. The drop
the the
inputs todown
nonlinear
the menu
model of ATPDraw,
characteristic
include the the
primary inputs to
of the CT core
and secondary
of saturation can be obtained using impedances, as wellmodel include
as RMS primary
current and andpoints
voltage secondary impedances,
from the excitationas
characteristic.
• If = the current in primary amps. based onwell current
as RMS and voltage
current data available
and voltage points from from the excitation
the excitation
   characteristic.
characteristic.
1 ∗ (1)
   The3Single phase, saturable transformer model can be found
in the transformer drop down menu of ATPDraw, the inputs to
the model include the primary and secondary impedances, as
n primary amps. well as RMS current and voltage points from the excitation
POWERENG.COM
characteristic.A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 4
 The saturable transformer model is convenient for modeling CT performance because
the saturation characteristic can be entered directly from the excitation curve. The
program includes a sub-routine to convert these RMS current and voltage pairs into peak
current-flux pairs for the simulation. There are some limitations to this model; it does not
The saturable
include any hysteresis transformer
and cannot accountmodel
for anyisremanence
convenient in
forthe
modeling available fault curr
CT core. Despite
CT performance because the saturation characteristic can be the first few cycles
these limitations the model provides good results for the type of significant saturation
entered directly from the excitation curve. The program includes
scenarios that would be of interest in most protection studies.2
a sub-routine to convert these RMS current and voltage pairs
into peak current-flux pairs for the simulation. There are some
ATP places the magnetizing branch on the primary winding of the model, therefore the
limitations to this model; it does not include any hysteresis and
secondary winding
cannotresistance,
account forturns ratio, and saturation
any remanence information
in the CT core. Despitewill be entered
these
on the primarylimitations
winding ofthe
themodel
model.provides
With the good
secondary
results for the type of to the
winding connected
simulated fault current source.
significant saturation scenarios that would be of interest in most
protection studies. [2].

Figure 8:

Figure 7: RAFO_S Attributes Figure 7: TRAFO_S Attributes

ATP places the magnetizing branch on the primary winding

The excitation characteristic can be entered as pairs of RMS current and voltage points
of the model, therefore the secondary winding resistance, turns
by selecting the “RMS”
ratio, checkbox information
and saturation in the Attributes window.
will be enteredUnder theprimary
on the characteristic tab,
the number ofwinding
points can
of the model. With the secondary winding connected to curve.
be selected and entered directly from the excitation
Entering
The saturable transformer model is convenient for modeling between
the 6-10 points
simulated
available fault provided
fault current
currents good results
source.
to simulate during model
the performance of avalidation.
CT over
CT performance because the saturation characteristic can be the The
first excitation
few cyclescharacteristic
of a fault. can be entered as pairs of RMS
entered directly from the excitation curve. The program includes current and voltage points by selecting the “RMS” checkbox in
a sub-routine to convert these RMS current and voltage pairs the Attributes window. Under the characteristic tab, the number
into peak current-flux pairs for the simulation. There are some of points can be selected and entered directly from the excitation
limitations to this model; it does not include any hysteresis and curve. Entering between 6-10 points provided good results
cannot account for any remanence in the CT core. Despite these during model validation.
limitations the model provides good results for the type of
significant saturation scenarios that would be of interest in most After the data entry is completed, the model can be
protection studies. [2]. interconnected to a larger simulation. The lead resistance and
relay burden will be modeled on the primary side of the
transformer model (representing the CT secondary) separately
using the RLC components available in the ATP component
library. The secondary side of the transformer model
(representing the CT primary) can be interconnected to an
equivalent source or larger overall system model. The final three
phase CT is shown in Figure 9.
The following
Once constructed it is important to validate the model of the two models:
performance. This can be done using a combination of hand
calculations, simplified cases in other software, or by • Fault Cur
reproducing the conditions under which the I-V characteristics • X/R ratio
were determined [3]. In the first example, the performance of the • Burden o
CT
Figure 8: TRAFO_S model
Model developed
Figure
Excitation in ATP is
8: TRAFO_S
Characteristic compared
model withcharacteristic
excitation the CT Saturation • Secondar
Calculator [4] made available by the Power System Relaying • Turns rat
and Control Committee (PSRC). This tool has been well vetted
POWERENG.COM • Excitation
A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 5
and takes information from the CT excitation characteristic and
protection studies. [2].

After the data entry is completed, the model can be interconnected to a larger
simulation. The lead resistance and relay burden will be modeled on the primary
side of the transformer model (representing the CT secondary) separately using the
RLC components available in the ATP component library. The secondary side of the
transformer model (representing the CT primary) can be interconnected to an equivalent
source or larger overall Figure
system8:model. Themodel
TRAFO_S final three phase
excitation CT is shown in Figure 9.
characteristic

Figure 7: TRAFO_S Attributes

ATP places the magnetizing branch on the primary winding

of the model, therefore the secondary winding resistance, turns
ratio, and saturation information will be entered on the primary
winding of the model. With the secondary winding connected to
the simulated fault current source.
The excitation characteristic can be entered as pairs of RMS
current and voltage points by selecting the “RMS” checkbox in
the Attributes window. Under the characteristic tab, the number
of points can be selected and entered directly from the excitation
curve. Entering between 6-10 points provided good results
during model validation.
After the data entry is completed, the model can be
interconnected to a larger simulation. The lead resistance and
relay burden will be modeled on the primary side of the
transformer model (representing the CT secondary) separately
using the RLC components available in the ATP component
library. The secondary side of the transformer model
(representing the CT primary) can be interconnected to an
equivalent source or larger overall system model. The final
Figurethree
9: ATP CT Model Figure 9: ATP CT model
phase CT is shown in Figure 9.
The following information was used to compare the results
Once constructed it is important to validate the model
After of the two
it is constructed models:
it is important to validate the model performance. This can be
performance. This can be done using a combinationdone of hand
using a combination of hand calculations, simplified cases in other software, or
calculations, simplified cases in other software,by reproducing
or by • Fault Current 11,200A rms
the conditions under which the I-V characteristics were determined.3 In
reproducing the conditions under which the I-V characteristics • X/R ratio of 37.2
the first example, the performance of the CT model developed in ATP is compared with
were determined [3]. In the first example, the performance of the • Burden of 4 ohms
the CT Saturation Calculator made available by the Power System Relaying and Control
CT model developed in ATP is compared with the CT Saturation •4 Secondary winding resistance of 1.14 ohms
Calculator [4] made available by the Power System Committee
Relaying (PSRC).• This tool has been well vetted and takes information from the CT
Turns ratio of 400:1
and Control Committee (PSRC). This tool has been well excitation
vetted characteristic and available fault currents to simulate the performance of a
CT over • Excitation characteristic
the first few cycles of a fault. from Figure 5
and takes information from the CT excitation characteristic and
The following information was used to compare the results of the two models:
• Fault4Current 11,200A RMS
• X/R ratio of 37.2
• Burden of 4 ohms
• Secondary winding resistance of 1.14 ohms
• Turns ratio of 400:1
• Excitation characteristic from Figure 5
For ATP an equivalent source was modeled to provide the required 11.2 kA fault current
with an X/R ratio of 37.2 to match the information directly entered into the Excel based
model provided by the PSRC. The resulting CT saturation was compared to an ideal,
non-saturated secondary current in both models and showed good agreement.

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 6
els and showed good agreement. required 11.2 kA fault current with an X/R ratio of 37.2 to match
the information directly entered into the Excel based model
provided by the PSRC. The resulting CT saturation was
compared to an ideal (non-saturated) secondary current in both
models and showed good agreement.

Figure 12: RMS Voltage and Current input pairs (red), and
simulation outputs (blue)

IV. CCVT TRANSIENTS

Figure 10: CT saturation validation Figure 12: RM
Coupling Capacitor Voltage Transformers (CCVT) are
An alternative method for validating the CT model is to common on higher voltage transmission systems. CCVT’s use
ate the excitation characteristic using the CT model and a capacitive voltage divider to step the system voltage down to I
ge source. The curve is constructed by applying RMS an intermediate level and apply a traditional potential
Figure 10: CT Saturation Validation Figure 10: CT saturation validation Coupling Capa
ges from the excitation curve to the transformer model and transformer to further reduce the voltage to levels suitable for
protectiveAnrelay inputs. method for validating the CT model is to
alternative common on higher
menting the resulting excitation current. The simple circuit
his test is depicted in Figure 11. An alternative recreate
method theforexcitation
validatingcharacteristic
the CT modelusing the CT model
is to recreate and
the excitation a capacitive voltage
characteristic voltage
using HVsource.
the The curve
CT model
Bus is constructed
and voltage by curve
source. The applying RMS
is constructedan intermediate l
by applying RMSvoltages from the
voltages fromexcitation curve curve
the excitation to the to
transformer model and
the transformer
transformer to furth
model and
documenting the resulting excitation current. The simple circuit protective relay inp
C1excitation current. The simple circuit for this test is depicted
documenting the resulting
in Figure 11. for this test is depicted in
Lt Figure 11.
HV Bus
Vm PT
The simulation was run 10 times at voltages from 2.6 V to 330 V. The resulting excitation
current waveforms were recorded, and the RMS value of the current was plotted against C1
C2
FSC Burden
the RMS excitation voltage applied. The reconstructed excitation characteristic using
Figure 11: Excitation Test Circuit 10 points (blue) in Figure 12 closely matches the current and voltage pairs taken from Vm
Figure 11: Excitation test circuit the characteristic (red) in Figure 5.
C2
The simulation was run 10 times at voltages from 2.6V to
V. The resulting
For ATP excitation
an equivalent current
source waveforms
was modeled were the
to provide Figure 13: CCVT simplified equivalent circuit
ded, and 11.2
required the RMS value
kA fault of thewith
current current wasratio
an X/R plotted against
of 37.2 to match Figure 11: Excitation test circuit
RMS excitationdirectly
the information voltageentered
applied.
into The reconstructed
the Excel based model
ation characteristic
provided using 10
by the PSRC. Thepoints (blue)CT
resulting in Figure 12 was The The
saturation simulation
intermediate was run
voltage 10 timesaround
is typically at voltages
11 kVfromand 2.6V
can to
ly matchestothe
compared an current and voltage pairs
ideal (non-saturated) taken current
secondary from the 330V. Thefrom
in bothbe determined resulting excitation
the capacitance current
values using waveforms
the followingwere Figure 1
acteristic (red)
models and in Figure
showed good5. agreement. recorded, and the RMS value of the current was plotted against
relation
the RMS excitation voltage applied. The reconstructed
Once validated, the CT model can then be incorporated into excitation characteristic using 10points (blue) in Figure 12 The intermediat
arger overall study. Depending on the nature of the study closely matches the  current
and ∗ voltage pairs taken from (2) the
 be determined from
econdary currents can be observed directly or saved in a characteristic (red) in Figure 5.
ient format and injected into a physical device using a relay relation
A tuning
Once inductor
validated,(or
thecompensating
CT model caninductor) is placed at into
then be incorporated
et.
the intermediate voltage
the larger overall and in
study. combination
Depending withnature
on the the step
of down
the study 
transformer (PT), inductance
the secondary currents can forms a series resonant
be observed directly orcircuit
savedto in a
compensate
transient for the and
format phase shift into
injected introduced
a physicalbydevice
the capacitor.
using a relay
The test
value of the total inductance required can be estimated as A tuning induct
set.
the intermediate vol
transformer (PT), in
compensate for the
Figure 12:Input
RMSPairs
Voltage The value of the tot
Figure 12: RMS Voltage and Current (red), and Current input
and Simulation pairs
Outputs (red),
(blue) and
5 simulation outputs (blue)

After it is validated, the CT modelIV.canCCVT

then T
beRANSIENTS
incorporated into the larger overall study.
Figure 10: CT saturation validation Depending on theCoupling
nature of Capacitor
the study the secondary currents can be observed
Voltage Transformers (CCVT) are directly
or saved in a common
transient on
format and injected into a physical device using
higher voltage transmission systems. CCVT’s use a relay5test set.
An alternative method for validating the CT model is to
recreate the excitation characteristic using the CT model and a capacitive voltage divider to step the system voltage down to
voltage source. The curve is constructed by applying RMS an intermediate level and apply a traditional potential
voltages from the excitation curve to the transformer model and transformer to further reduce the voltage to levels suitable for
documenting the resulting excitation current. The simple circuit protective relay inputs.
for this test is depicted in Figure 11.
HV Bus

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial forC1

Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 7
Lt
 Figure 12: RMS Voltage and Current input pairs (red), and
simulation
Figure 12: RMS Voltage andoutputs
Current(blue)
input pairs (red), and
simulation outputs (blue)
IV. CCVT TRANSIENTS
Figure 10: CT saturation validation IV. CCVT TRANSIENTS
Coupling Capacitor Voltage Transformers (CCVT) are
Figure 10: CT saturation validation CCVT Transients
An alternative method for validating the CT model is to common
Coupling on higher
Capacitor voltage transmission
Voltage systems.
Transformers CCVT’sare
(CCVT) use
Coupling a Capacitor
capacitive
common on Voltage
voltage
higher Transformers
divider
voltage to step
transmission(CCVT)
the are common
system
systems. voltage
CCVT’s onuse
downhigher
to voltage
eate the excitation
alternative methodcharacteristic
for validating using
the the
CTCT model
model and
is to
age source.
e the The characteristic
excitation curve is constructed
using thebyCT applying RMS
model and a an
transmission intermediate
systems.
capacitive CCVTs
voltage level
use
divider and
a
to apply
capacitive
step the a
system traditional
voltage divider
voltage potential
to
down step
to the system
ages from the excitation curve to the transformer
e source. The curve is constructed by applying RMS model voltage
and antransformer
intermediate
down to an to further
level
intermediate reduce
and
level the
apply
and voltage
a
apply a to levels
traditional suitable
traditional for
potential
potential transformer to
menting
es from the theexcitation
resulting curve
excitation
to thecurrent. The simple
transformer modelcircuit
and protective
furthertransformer
reduce relay
to
the voltageinputs.
further
to reduce the voltage
levels suitable to levels suitable
for protective for
relay inputs.
his test the
enting is depicted
resultinginexcitation
Figure 11.current. The simple circuit protective relay inputs.
s test is depicted in Figure 11. HV Bus
HV Bus
C1
C1 Lt
Lt
Vm PT
Vm PT
C2
FSC Burden
C2
FSC Burden
Figure 11: Excitation test circuit
Figure 11: Excitation test circuit
The simulation was run 10 times at voltages from 2.6V to
V. The resulting
e simulation was runexcitation
10 times atcurrent
voltageswaveforms
from 2.6Vwere to Figure 13: CCVT simplified equivalent circuit
rded,
Theand the RMSexcitation
resulting value of the currentwaveforms
current was plotted againstFigure 13: CCVT Simplified Equivalent Circuit
were Figure 13: CCVT simplified equivalent circuit
RMS
ed, excitation
and the RMS valuevoltage
of theapplied. Theplotted
current was reconstructed
against
ation characteristic
MS excitation using applied.
voltage 10 points The
(blue)reconstructed
in Figure 12 The intermediate voltage is typically around 11 kV and can
The
the intermediate voltage is typically
ely
ion matches the current
characteristic using and voltage(blue)
10 points pairs taken from12
in Figure beThedetermined
intermediatefrom isaround
the capacitance
voltage typically11 kV and
values
aroundusing can
11 kVbefollowing
the determined from the
and can
acteristic (red) in Figure 5.
y matches the current and voltage pairs taken from the capacitance
berelationvalues using the following relation:
determined from the capacitance values using the following
teristic (red) in Figure 5.
Once validated, the CT model can then be incorporated into relation

arger overall the
ce validated, study.
CT Depending on the
model can then be nature of the into
incorporated study    ∗  Equation 2 (2)

secondary
ger overallcurrents can be observed
study. Depending on thedirectly
nature ofor the
saved in a
study    ∗ (2)
ient format and injected 
condary currents can be into a physical
observed device
directly or using
saved ainrelay
a A tuning inductor (or compensating inductor) is placed at
set.
nt format and injected into a physical device using a relay A tuningthe inductor
tuning(orinductor
A intermediate compensating
voltage andinductor) isinductor)
in combination
(or compensating placed
withatis the
the intermediate
step
placed down
at voltage and
. in combination with the step down transformer (PT), inductance forms a series resonant
thetransformer
intermediate (PT), inductance
voltage forms a series
and in combination resonant
with the stepcircuit
downto
circuit transformer
tocompensate
compensate (PT), for the phase
for inductance
the phase forms shift introduced
shift introduced by the capacitor.
by thecircuit
a series resonant capacitor.
to The value of the
total inductance
The value of
compensate required
forthe can
thetotal be estimated
inductance
phase as:
required can
shift introduced by betheestimated
capacitor. as
The value of the total inductance required can be estimated as
 Thesize
sizeof
ofthe
themain
mainCC
C

   ∗ Equation 3(3)

(3) The
from the nameplate howev
 ∗ from the nameplate howeve
components and and secondar
seconda
The tuning
The tuning inductor
inductor can can bebedetermined
determined by by subtracting
subtracting the the components
reported on manufacturer d
The tuning5 inductor can be determined by subtracting the PT inductance reported
from on total.
the manufacturer dr
PTinductance
PT inductancefrom fromthe thetotal.
total. the manufacturer.
5 the manufacturer.

 −−
 
 
Equation 4 (4)
(4) Thestep-down
The step-downtransform
transfor
saturable transformer
saturable transformer mode mod
Both the tuning inductor and the potential transformer will application the saturation
Both theBoth theinductor
tuning inductor the and the potential transformer a smallapplication
will amount of the saturation
havetuning
asmall
small amountand potential
ofcapacitance
capacitance transformer
that wouldbe bewill have
modeled represented
in represented in less
less detail
detail
have
capacitancea
parallel that
with
amount
would
each
of
be modeled in
component. The
that
parallel
amount
would
withof each modeled
component.
capacitance
in
is The amount
voltage fromofin the no-load
parallel with
capacitance eachnot
is small, component. The amount andofcan capacitance is voltage from the no-load l
small, not
small, not as readilyas
as readily readily available,
available,
available, and can
and can often
often often be neglected
be neglected
be neglected in
in protection
magnetization
in magnetization characteristi
characteristic
studies involving
protection near nominal
studies involving frequencies.
near nominal frequencies.
protection studies involving near nominal frequencies.
Forthe
thetutorial,
tutorial,typical
typical
CCVTs will include a ferroresonance suppression circuit (FSC) designed to For dampen
CCVT’s
CCVT’s will include
will occur
include a ferroresonance
a ferroresonance suppression
suppression and circuit
circuit the simplified CCVT
the simplified CCVT model mode
oscillations that may between the circuit capacitance the non-linear
(FSC) designed
(FSC) designed to dampen
to dampen oscillations
oscillationsiron that may
thatcore.
mayThe occur
occur between
between
inductance of thecapacitance
the circuit
circuit potential transformer’s
and thethe non-linear
non-linear FSC
inductance can be in the form of an LC
of the
the TABLE I
the capacitance and inductance of TABLE I.
circuit tuned
potential to the power
transformer’s system
iron frequency
core. The (active
FSC can FSC)
be or
in as
the a resistive load connected
form
potential or
permanently transformer’s
through iron gap
a spark core.toThe FSC can beofinthe
the system
secondary thePTform
(passive FSC).
Parameter
Parameter
ofan
of anLCLCcircuit
circuit tuned
tuned totothe
thepower
power frequency(active
system frequency (active
C1
C1
FSC)or
FSC) orasasaaresistive
resistiveloadloadconnected
connectedpermanently
permanentlyor orthrough
throughaa
sparkgap
spark gaptotothe
thesecondary
secondaryof ofthe
thePTPT(passive
(passiveFSC).
FSC). C2
C2
Lt
Lt
PTTurns
PT TurnsRatio
Rati
PTLLprimary
PT primary

POWERENG.COM
PTRRprimary
PT
A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 8primary
LfLf
Cf
Cf PTLLsecondar
seconda
PT
 PT L transformer’s
potential primary iron core.2997
The W
FSC can be in the form
of anPTLC circuit
R primary tuned to the power system
400 W frequency (active
C1
Cf Lf FSC) or as a resistive load connected permanently or through a
sparkPTgap to the secondary of the0.001
L secondary W
PT (passive FSC). C2
PT R secondary 0.001 W Lt
Gap
0.01421 A,
PT magnetization PT
Rf 13.7867 Wb
R 5.5 W,0.01 H, PT
Lf Rf Cf (RLC)
8 uF, PT
LF (RL)Cf Lf 3.9 W, 0.394 H PT
ure 14: Typical active (left) and passive (right) FSC designs
Rf 40 W PT
Cs, in particular active FSC circuits, can have a Gap
Burden 1000 W
cant impact on the transient response of the CCVT and PT
Rf
not be neglected in protection studies. R
Lf protection
Rf Cf
This simplified model would be suitable for most
represent FSC circuits using ATPDraw, the linear RLC studies interested in transient responses that would be observed
nents can be configured to represent each side of the LF
by relays Figure immediately
14: Typicalfollowing
active (left)a and system fault. FSC
passive (right) For designs
the inductance is split out as two inductors representing
Figure 14: Typical Active (left) and Passive (right) FSC Designs
investigations that involve frequencies higher than 500Hz or Rf
ide of the tap, with a capacitance to one side, and the that are concerned
FSCs, in withparticular
ferroresonance,
active additional
FSC circuits, modeling
can have a Bu
ated resistances. may be required to FSC
account for
on the
FSCs, in significant
particular active impact
circuits, caneffects
have aofsignificant
transient stray capacitances
response of the CCVT
impact on theand
transient
and the presence
response of theshouldCCVT and
of be
not anyneglected
should
drain coil. protection
A more detailed
not beinneglected instudies.
nonlinear
protection studies.
core model for the step-down transformer that includes This simplifi
remanence,
To represent should
To
FSC circuits alsoATPDraw,
represent
using be used.
FSC theAlinear
circuits moreRLC
using comprehensive
ATPDraw,
componentsthe linear RLC
can be configured to interested
studies
discussion
represent each side of of
CCVT
components modeling
canthe
the filter, is provided
be inductance
configured istoin [2].out as two
represent
split eachinductors
side of the
representing
by relays imm
each side of thefilter, the ainductance
tap, with capacitance is split
to oneoutside,
as twoand inductors representing
the associated resistances.investigations th
each side of the tap, with a capacitance to one side, and the that are concern
The size of the mainassociated
CCVT resistances.
capacitors is easily obtainable from the nameplate. However, may be required
the exact impedances of the FSC components and secondary transformers are not typically
and the presence
reported on manufacturer drawings and must be requested from the manufacturer. core model fo
remanence, sho
FigureFigure
15: ATP15:
FSCATP FSC
Model model The step-down transformer can be modeled using the same saturable transformerdiscussion of CC
model used to simulate the CT. For this application the saturation characteristics of the
core are
6 represented in less detail using the excitation current and voltage from the no-
load loss test as a single point for the magnetization characteristic.

For the tutorial, typical data was obtained to Table 1: CCVT Typical Data
represent the simplified CCVT model.5
Parameter Value
Figure 15: ATP FSC model
This simplified model would be suitable
C1 2920 pF
for most protection studies interested in
transient responses that would be observed C2 6
82000 pF
by relays immediately following a system
fault. For investigations that involve Lt 58 kΩ
frequencies higher than 500 Hz or that are
concerned with ferroresonance, additional PT Turns Ratio 6584/115
modeling may be required to account for PT L primary 2997 Ω
the effects of stray capacitances and the
presence of any drain coil. A more detailed PT R primary 400 Ω
nonlinear core model for the step-down
PT L secondary 0.001 Ω
transformer that includes remanence,
should also be used. A more comprehensive PT R secondary 0.001 Ω
discussion of CCVT modeling is provided
in “Mathematical Models for Current, 0.01421 A,
PT magnetization
13.7867 Wb
Voltage, and Coupling Capacitor Voltage
5.5 Ω, 0.01 H,
Transformers”.2 Cf (RLC)
8 uF,

LF (RL) 3.9 Ω, 0.394 H

Rf 40 Ω

Burden 1000 Ω

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 9
 Options for validating the performance of a CCVT model can be difficult outside of
laboratory environment or having recorded event data for comparison. At a minimum,
the model can be benchmarked against another vetted model to rule out any obvious
errors in data entry or highlight any unexpected results. The model presented here
follows a format that is commonly used in other transient analysis software packages.
For comparison, a simple bolted fault scenario was simulated using the model
constructed in Figure 16 as well as the built in CCVT model provided by a commercial
software package.

The CCVT simulation results show good agreement between the two models, which is
expected given the similarity in modeling approach.

The transient oscillation of CCVTs in response to a fault is most often a concern for
distance elements, which may transiently overreach on systems where the faulted
voltage is significantly depressed. With an expanded system model, the CCVT model
can provide a reasonable approximation of the expected secondary voltages. The
output of these simulations can be saved in COMTRADE format and played back into a
relay to observe the distance element response to the transient after any initial signal
processing. The process of saving results to a COMTRADE format for playback will be
covered in COMTRADE Output section of this tutorial.

Figure16:
Figure 16:Simplified
Simplified CCVT
CCVTModel
model

s for validating the performance of a CCVT model

fficult outside of laboratory environment or having
event data for comparison. At a minimum, the model
nchmarked against another vetted model to rule out Figure 17: Comparison of CCVT model response
us errors in data entry or highlight any unexpected
he model presented here follows a format that is
y used in other transient analysis software packages. V. TRANSFORMER MODELING AND INRUSH SIMULATIONS
arison, a simple bolted fault scenario was simulated
model constructed in Figure 16 as well as the built in Power transformers are one of the most common
del provided by a commercial software package. components installed on the power system. They are used for a
wide variety of applications including generation plants,
CCVT simulation results show good agreement transmission substations, and distribution substations.
he two models which is expected given the similarity Transformers can be modeled in conventional steady state
ng approach. analysis programs for use in short circuit, load flow and
coordination studies. One limitation of these steady state
ansient oscillation of CCVTs in response to a fault is models is that they are not able to model the transient
n a concern for distance elements which may performance of the transformer under conditions such as
overreach on systems where the faulted voltage is transformer inrush. This makes it difficult to determine how an
tly depressed. With an expanded system model the overcurrent relay, impedance-based relay, or current
Figure 16: Simplified CCVT model
odel can provide a reasonable approximation of the transformer might respond to a transformer energization event.
secondary voltages. The output of these simulations ATP provides the user with the ability to model both non-
ved in COMTRADE format and played back into a saturable transformers (similar to steady state programs) and
Options for validating the performance of a CCVT model saturable transformers. This paper is focused on modeling using
bserve the distance element response to the transient
be difficult outside of laboratory environment or having ATP’s Hybrid Transformer model.
nitial signal processing. The process of saving results
orded event data for comparison. At a minimum, the model
MTRADE format for playback will be covered in
out 17: Comparison ofFigure
be benchmarked against another vetted model to ruleFigure 17: Comparison of CCVT model response
I of this tutorial. A. Transformer CCVT ModelExample
Modeling Response
obvious errors in data entry or highlight any unexpected
lts. The model presented here follows a format that is In this section, we will walk through the steps taken to
mmonly used in other transient analysis software packages. model a transformer with theMODELING
V. TRANSFORMER followingAND parameters:
INRUSH SIMULATIONS
comparison, a simple bolted fault scenario was simulated
g the model constructed in Figure 16 as well as the built7in Power transformers are one of the most common
VT model provided by a commercial software package.
POWERENG.COM
components Ainstalled
Tutorial for on the power
Applying system.
the Alternative They are
Transients used(ATP)
Program for toa Protection Analysis 10
wide variety of applications including generation plants,
transmission substations, and distribution substations.
 Transformer Modeling and Inrush Simulations
Power transformers are one of the most common components installed on the power
system. They are used for a wide variety of applications including generation plants,
transmission substations, and distribution substations. Transformers can be modeled
in conventional steady state analysis programs for use in short circuit, load flow and
coordination studies. One limitation of these steady state models is that they are
not able to model the transient performance of the transformer under conditions
such as transformer inrush. This makes it difficult to determine how an overcurrent
relay, impedance-based relay, or current transformer might respond to a transformer
energization event. ATP provides the user with the ability to model both non-saturable
transformers (similar to steady state programs) and saturable transformers. This paper
is focused on modeling using ATP’s
• High-Side Hybrid
Voltage: 13.8Transformer
kV model.
• Low-Side
Transformer Modeling Voltage: 416 V
Example
• Rating: 3.6 MVAthe steps taken to model a transformer with the
In this section, we will walk through
• Winding Configuration: Delta-Wye-Impedance
following parameters:
• High-Side Voltage:
Grounded 13.8 kV
• Low-Side Voltage: 416 V8.33% at 3.6 MVA
• Impedance:

• Rating:The
3.6 MVA
hybrid transformer model can be used to create a
• reasonably
Winding accurate Delta-Wye-Impedance
Configuration: model of a transformer using input data
Grounded
• Impedance: 8.33% at 3.6 MVA
that is readily available from a transformer test report.
Figu
Additional information on the hybrid transformer model is
The hybridavailable
transformerin the ATPDraw
model can be User’s
used toManual
create [6], and background
a reasonably accurate model of
information
a transformer using input ondata
the that
hybrid transformer
is readily availableimplementation
from a transformer The excitation
and test report.
Additional validation
information is on
available in [7].
the hybrid Figure 18
transformer shows
model the input indata
is available
accounted
the “ATPDraw
for in the
relatedand
to background
the transformer structure,onwinding connections, and data points from tra
User’s Manual”, information the hybrid transformer implementation
ratings.
and validation Hybrid in
is available transformers can beand
“Implementation modeled with as
verification of many as Transformer the ATP
the Hybrid
directly into
four windings. There are also several options for the core type authors noted that th
model in ATPDraw”. Figure 18 shows the input data related to the transformer
6,7

which can be used toand produce a Hybrid

more accurate modelcan of be voltage, loss, and ave
themodeled
structure, winding connections, ratings. transformers with
test are input into the
as many astransformer.
four windings. Transformer
There arewinding configurations
also several options forinclude
the coredelta,
type which can
converged more succ
be used towye, auto,a and
produce morezig-zag.
accurate Ofmodel
particular importance
of the is theTransformer
transformer. winding winding
90% and 120% of no
sequence
configurations option
include shown
delta, in theand
wye, auto, lower middle
zig-zag. Ofof Figure 18.
particular Note
importance is the
that the lower-voltage winding is typically closest to the core to
winding sequence option shown in the lower middle of Figure 18. Note that the lower-
reduce insulation requirements. It is very important to model
voltage winding is typically closest to the core to reduce insulation requirements. It is
the winding sequence correctly. The authors noticed significant
very important to model the winding sequence correctly. The authors noticed significant
differences in performance during inrush depending on the
differences in performance during inrush depending on the winding sequence used.
winding sequence used.

Figure 18: Transformer Structure, Ratings, and Connections Figure 20:

Figure 18: Transformer Structure, Ratings, and Connections
The input data for the transformer inductance, resistance, After entering the
capacitance, and core parameters can be based on either the into the component a
design parameters of the transformer, test report values, or the advanced core se
typical values. The authors used the “Test Report” option to advanced settings a
model the inductance, resistance, and transformer core. Figure nonlinearity used fo
19 below shows the series inductance and reactance values. The The advanced core se
impedance and load losses can be entered directly from the test segment” that extrapo
report. Typical values were used for the transformer saturation region. Th
capacitances since these are not typically provided in a test very useful in produc
POWERENG.COM report. For frequencies
A Tutorial for Applyingbelow approximately
the Alternative 2kHz(ATP)
Transients Program these
to Protection Analysis 11
capacitance values have little impact on the results and can The “typical value
 • High-Side Voltage: 13.8 kV
• Low-Side Voltage: 416 V
• Rating: 3.6 MVA
• Winding Configuration: Delta-Wye-Impedance
Grounded
• Impedance: 8.33% at 3.6 MVA

The hybrid transformer model can be used to create a

sonably accurate model of a transformer using input data
t is readily available from a transformer test report.
ditional information on the hybrid transformer model is Figure 19: Impedance Parameters
Figure 19: Impedance Parameters
ailable in the ATPDraw User’s Manual [6], and background
• High-Side Voltage: 13.8 kV The excitation characteristic for the transformer is
ormation on the hybrid transformer implementation and
• Low-Side Voltage: 416 V
lidation is available in [7]. Figure 18 shows the inputThe data accounted for in the modeling of the core parameters. Limited
input data for the transformer inductance, resistance, capacitance, and core
• Rating: 3.6 MVA
ated to the transformer structure, winding connections, and data points from transformer open circuit tests can be input
parameters can beintobased on either the design as parameters of the 20.
transformer, test
ings.
• Hybrid
Windingtransformers can Delta-Wye-Impedance
Configuration: be modeled with as many as values, or typicalthe
report
directly ATP
values.
component
The authors used
shown in Figure
the Test Report
The
option to model
ur windings. There are also several options for the corethetype authors noted that the model may not converge if too many
Grounded inductance,
voltage,resistance,
loss, andand transformer
average current core.
pointsFigure 19 below
from the shows the series
open circuit
ich can be used to produce a more accurate model of the
• Impedance: 8.33% at 3.6 MVA inductancetest andarereactance
input intovalues.
the Thetransformer
hybrid impedance component.
and load losses
The can be entered
model
nsformer. Transformer winding configurations include delta,
directly from the test more
converged report. Typical values
successfully when were
the used for
series of the transformer
points between capacitances
e, auto, and zig-zag. Of particular importance is the winding
The hybrid transformer model can be used to create sincea these are and
90% not 120%
typically
of provided
nominal in a testwere
voltage report. For frequencies below
used.
quence option shown in the lower middle of Figure 18. Note
asonably accurate model of a transformer using inputapproximately
data 2 kHz these capacitance values have little impact on the results and can
t the lower-voltage winding is typically closest to the core to
at is readily available from a transformer test report. often be omitted from protection studies. For higher frequency studies investigating
duce insulation requirements. It is very important to model Figure 19: Impedance Parameters
dditional information on the hybrid transformer model is transients, transient
lightning recovery voltage, or other high frequency events, the
winding sequence correctly. The authors noticed significant
ailable in the ATPDraw User’s Manual [6], and background capacitance of the transformer cannot be neglected.7
ferences in performance during inrush depending on the The excitation characteristic for the transformer is
ormation on the hybrid transformer implementation and
nding sequence used. accounted for in theformodeling of the core parameters.
lidation is available in [7]. Figure 18 shows the inputThe dataexcitation characteristic the transformer is accounted forLimited
in the modeling of the
ated to the transformer structure, winding connections, data points from transformer open circuit
andparameters. Limited data points from transformer open circuit
core tests can be input
tests can be input
ings. Hybrid transformers can be modeled with as many as into
directly
directly into the ATP component as shown in Figure 20. The
the ATP component as shown in Figure 20. The authors noted that the
ur windings. There are also several options for the coremodeltype mayauthors noted that the model may not converge if too many
not converge if too many voltage, loss, and average current points from the
hich can be used to produce a more accurate model of the voltage, loss, and average current points from the open circuit
open circuit test are input into the hybrid transformer component. The model converged
nsformer. Transformer winding configurations include more test are input into the hybrid transformer component. The model
delta,successfully when the series of points between 90% and 120% of nominal voltage
ye, auto, and zig-zag. Of particular importance is the winding converged more successfully when the series of points between
were used.
quence option shown in the lower middle of Figure 18. Note 90% and 120% of nominal voltage were used.
at the lower-voltage winding is typically closest to the core to
duce insulation requirements. It is very important to model
Figure sequence
e winding 18: Transformer Structure,
correctly. Ratings,noticed
The authors and Connections
significant Figure 20: Hybrid Transformer Core Parameters
ferences in performance during inrush depending on the
The input data used.
for the transformer inductance, resistance, After entering the values from the transformer test report
nding sequence
pacitance, and core parameters can be based on either the into the component and using typical values where appropriate,
sign parameters of the transformer, test report values, or the advanced core settings dialogue box can be opened. The
pical values. The authors used the “Test Report” option to advanced settings allow the user to adjust the type of
odel the inductance, resistance, and transformer core. Figure nonlinearity used for modeling the excitation characteristic.
below shows the series inductance and reactance values. The The advanced core settings also include an option to “add final
pedance and load losses can be entered directly from the test segment” that extrapolates the excitation characteristic into the
port. Typical values were used for the transformer saturation region. The author’s found this extrapolation to be
pacitances since these are not typically provided in a test very useful in producing realistic inrush current magnitudes.
port. For frequencies below approximately 2kHz these
pacitance values have little impact on the results and can The “typical values” options for the transformer parameters
Figure 20: careful
Hybrid Transformer Core Parameters
en Figure 18: Transformer
be omitted Structure,
from protection Ratings,
studies. For and Connections
higher frequency should
Figure 20: Hybrid be used
Transformer with
Core Parameters engineering judgement. Similarly,
dies investigating lightning transients, transient recovery use of the “design parameters” option require very detailed
The input data for the transformer inductance, resistance, After entering the values from the transformer test report
ltage, or other high frequency events, the capacitance of the information about the transformer dimensions and the materials
pacitance, and core parameters can be based on either the into the component and using typical values where appropriate,
nsformer cannot be neglected [7]. used for the core and windings.
After entering the values from the transformer test report into the component and
sign parameters of the transformer, test report values, or the advanced core settings dialogue box can be opened. The
using typical values where
advanced appropriate,
settings allow thetheuser advanced core settings
to adjust the type dialogue
of box can be
pical values. The authors used the “Test Report” option to
opened. The advanced settings
nonlinearity used for allow the user
modeling the toexcitation
adjust thecharacteristic.
type of nonlinearity used
odel the inductance, resistance, and transformer core. Figure
below shows the series inductance and reactance values. forThe
modeling Thethe excitation
advanced characteristic.
core The advanced
settings also include an optioncoreto settings
“add finalalso include an
pedance and load losses can be entered directly from the test segment” that extrapolates the excitation characteristic into the
port. Typical values were used for the transformer saturation region. The author’s found this extrapolation to be
these are not typically provided in a test 8very usefulA in
pacitances sincePOWERENG.COM producing realistic inrush current magnitudes.
Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 12
port. For frequencies below approximately 2kHz these
pacitance values have little impact on the results and can The “typical values” options for the transformer parameters
 option to “add final segment” that extrapolates the excitation characteristic into the
saturation region. The authors found this extrapolation to be very useful in producing
realistic inrush current magnitudes.

B.values”
The “typical Modeloptions
Validation Example
for the transformer parameters should be used with careful
The transformer
engineering judgment. model
Similarly, use should parameters”
of the “design be checked optionfor
require very
B. Model
reasonableness
detailed information Validation
abouttothe
verifyExample
that it is dimensions
transformer behaving as and
expected. Short- used for the
the materials
circuitThe
core and windings. tests can be performed
transformer modelto verify that the
should be impedance
checked offor
thereasonableness
transformer has to been
verifymodeled
that it iscorrectly.
behaving This can be done
as expected. Short-
Model Validation
bycircuit Example
connecting
tests cana betime-controlled switch that
performed to verify to the
the impedance
secondary of
winding
The transformer of theshould
model
the transformertransformer
hasbebeen and
checked initiating a three-phase
for reasonableness
modeled correctly. to fault
This can verifyasthat it is
be done
behaving asshown in Figure
expected. 21 below.
Short-circuit The
tests results
can be can then
performed
by connecting a time-controlled switch to the secondary be compared
to verify to the impedance
that
hand
of the transformercalculations,
has been or fault
modeled simulation
correctly. results
This canfrom
be steady
done
winding of the transformer and initiating a three-phase fault as by state
connecting a
analysis
shown in Figure 21 below. The results can then be compared to
time-controlled software.
switch to the secondary winding of the transformer and initiating a
Figu
hand calculations, or fault simulation results from steady state
three-phase fault as shown in Figure 21 below. The results can then be compared to
analysis
hand calculations, or software.
fault simulation results from steady state analysis software. The low-side volt F
Figure 24. The peak m
324 V,The
which equate
low-side vo
95.4% of nominal.
Figure 24. The pea T
25.324
TheV,peak current
which equa
an95.4%
RMS magnitude
of nominal.o
rated current.
25. The peak The
curre
Figure 21: Through-Fault Simulation Setup reasonable consideri
an RMS magnitud
Figure 21: Through-Fault Simulation Setup amount
rated of load curren
current. The
For the exampleFiguresystem, the source Simulation
21: Through-Fault impedanceSetup is modeled
with a resistance of 0.04 Ohms and an inductive reactance of reasonable conside
0.381 Ohms. The transformer impedance is 1.194 + j4.241 amount of load cur
For the exampleFor the example
system, the source system, the
impedance source impedance
is modeled with is modeled
a resistance of
Ohms.
with Based
a on these
resistance of impedances,
0.04 Ohms anda three-phase
an inductive fault on the of
reactance
0.04 Ohms and an inductive reactance of 0.381 Ohms. The transformer impedance is
secondary
0.381 Ohms.of the The
transformer shouldimpedance
transformer result in high-side
is 1.194currents
+ j4.241
1.194 + j4.241 Ohms. Based on these impedances, a three-phase fault on the secondary
of Ohms.
1,665 A. Figure
Based 22 shows
on these the high-side
impedances, currents fault
a three-phase obtained
on the
of the transformer
from theshould
ATP result during
in high-side currents of 1,665 A. Figure The22 shows the
secondary ofmodel
the transformer a low-side
should resultthree-phase fault.
in high-side currents
high-side currents
peak obtained from the ATP model during a low-side three-phase fault. The
of current
1,665 A. magnitude
Figure 22 was foundthe
shows to be 2,352 A,currents
high-side which equates
obtained
peak current magnitude
to from
a current was found
magnitude to be 2,352
of 1,663 A, which equates
A, indicating to a current magnitude
the ATP model during a low-side three-phasethat fault.the
The
of 1,663 A,transformer’s
indicating thatimpedance
the transformer’s
has been impedance
modeled has been Similar
correctly. modeled correctly.
peak current magnitude was found to be 2,352 A, which equates
Similar tests can
tests
to abecurrent
can beperformed
performed forforother
magnitude offault
other faulttypes
1,663typesA,such
such as
as phase-phase
that theand single-
phase-phase
indicating
line-to-ground
and faults.
single-line-to-ground
transformer’s impedance faults.
has been modeled correctly. Similar
tests can be performed for other fault types such as phase-phase
and single-line-to-ground faults.
Figure 24: L

Figure 24

Figure 22: High-Side Currents from ATP Simulation for Three-

Figure 22: High-Side Currents from ATP Simulation for Three-Phase Through-Fault
Phase Through-Fault
Figure 22: High-Side Currents from ATP Simulation for Three-
Another good test ofPhase the transformer
Through-Fault model is a simple load
flow check. For this example, a load was modeled on the
secondary ofgoodthe testtransformer with model
an impedance Figure 25: H
Another of the transformer is a simple of
load
0.04326+j0.02095
flow check. ForOhms. At nominal
this example, voltage,
a load wasthis load would
modeled on the
besecondary
3.6 MVA, whichof the is the transformer’s
transformer withmaximum rating. The of C. Transformer
an impedance FigureInru
25:
circuit used for this test
0.04326+j0.02095 is illustrated
Ohms. At nominal in Figure 23.this load would
voltage, One of the limita
be 3.6 MVA, which is the transformer’s maximum rating. The that C. itTransformer
does not acc In
circuit used for this test is illustrated in Figure 23. startup. Asof
a work-ar
One the lim
POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis
shown 13
that itin does
Figurenot26a
startup. As a work-
 Another good test of the transformer model is a simple load flow check. For this
example, a load was modeled on the secondary of the transformer with an impedance of
0.04326+j0.02095 Ohms. At nominal voltage, this load would be 3.6 MVA, which is the
Model Validation Example
transformer’s maximum rating. The circuit used for this test is illustrated in Figure 23.
The
Model transformer
Validation Examplemodel should be checked for
B. Model Validation
sonableness to verify Example
that it is behaving as expected.
The transformer model should be checkedShort-for
cuit tests
The can be performed
transformer to
model verify that
should
sonableness to verify that it is behaving as expected. the
be impedance
checked of for
Short-
transformer
reasonableness hasto been modeled
verify that it correctly.
is behaving This
as
cuit tests can be performed to verify that the impedance of can be
expected.done
Short-
connecting
circuit tests can
transformer a time-controlled
has be performed
been switch
modeledtocorrectly. toThis
verify that thecansecondary
impedance
be done of
nding
the of the transformer
transformer
connecting a has beenand initiating
modeled
time-controlled a three-phase
correctly.
switch to the fault
be as
Thissecondary
can done
own in Figure
by connecting
nding 21 below. The results
a time-controlled
of the transformer and initiating can then
switch be compared
to the fault
a three-phase to
secondary
as
nd
own calculations,
winding
in Figure orbelow.
fault simulation
of the21transformerTheand results
initiating
results afrom
can then steady state
three-phase
be compared fault
to as
alysis
shown software.
in Figure 21 below. The results can
nd calculations, or fault simulation results from steady then be compared
state to Figure 23: Load Flow Test Circuit
hand calculations,
alysis software. or fault simulation results from steady state
analysis software. Figure 23: Load Flow Test Circuit
TheTest
Figure 23: Load Flow low-side
Circuit voltages
Figurefrom the load
23: Load Flowflow test are shown in
Test Circuit
Figure
The low-side voltages from the load flow testapproximately
24. The peak magnitude was found to be are shown in
324
Figure V,The
which
24. The equates
low-side
peak to an RMS
voltages
magnitude fromwas magnitude
the of approximately
loadtoflow
found be 229.1
test areVL-G , or in
shown
The low-side
95.4% voltages
of from the
nominal. Theload flow test
high-side are shown
currents are in Figure
shown in 24. The peak
Figure
Figure
324 V,found 24. The
whichtoequatespeak magnitude
to an RMS324 was found
magnitude to be
ofequatesapproximately
229.1 V L-G, or
magnitude25was
. 324
Theof peak be approximately
current washigh-side
found V,
tocurrentswhich
bemagnitude
204 A, to an RMS
, or magnitude
95.4% V, which
nominal. equates
The to an RMS arewhich equates
of 229.1
shown to
VL-G
in Figure
of 229.1 VL-G, or
an. 95.4%
RMS 95.4% of
magnitude nominal. The high-side currents are shown in Figure 25. The
25 The peak currentof
of nominal. was144.2
The found A, toorbe
high-side 95.7% of which
currents
204 A, the shown
are transformers
in Figure
equates to
peak current
ratedwas found
. current. to
peakThe
Themagnitude be 204 A,
voltage
current which
drop
was found equates
across to an
theA, RMS magnitude
transformer is toof 144.2 A,
Figure 21: Through-Fault Simulation Setup
an 25RMS of 144.2 A, or to be 204
95.7% of the which equates
transformers
or 95.7% of the transformers
reasonable
an RMS rated
considering
magnitude current.
ofthe The
transformer
144.2 voltage
A, across drop
impedance
or 95.7% across the
and the transformer is
rated current. The voltage drop theoftransformer
the transformers
is
reasonable considering the transformer impedance and the amount
For the example
Figure 21: Through-Fault Simulation Setup
system, the source impedance is modeled
amount
reasonable of load
rated current. current.
The voltage
considering drop across
the transformer and the is current.
the transformer
impedance of load
Figure 21: Through-Fault Simulation Setup reasonable
hFor
a resistance of system,
0.04 Ohms amount of loadconsidering
current. the transformer impedance and the
the example the and
sourcean impedance
inductive reactance
is modeled of
amount of load current.
81
h aForOhms.
resistance Theoftransformer
the example 0.04system,
Ohms the impedance
andsource is 1.194
impedance
an inductive +isj4.241
reactance modeled
of
ms.
with Based
a on these
resistance of impedances,
0.04 Ohms a
and three-phase
81 Ohms. The transformer impedance is 1.194 + j4.241an inductive fault on
reactancethe of
ondary
0.381
ms. Based of the
Ohms. on transformer
The shouldimpedance
thesetransformer
impedances, result in high-side
a three-phase faultcurrents
is 1.194 + j4.241
on the
1,665
ondaryA.
Ohms. of Figure
Based on 22 shows
these
the transformer the high-side
impedances,
should currents fault
a three-phase
result in high-side obtainedon the
currents
m
1,665the ATP
secondary ofmodel
A. Figure 22during
showsa the
the transformer low-side
should three-phase
result
high-side fault.
in high-side
currents The
currents
obtained
ak
m current
of the1,665 ATP magnitude
A.model was
Figureduring found
22 shows to be 2,352
the high-side
a low-side A, which
currents
three-phase equates
fault.obtained
The
ak a current
from current
the ATP magnitude
modelwas
magnitude of
during 1,663
found to beA,
a low-side indicating
2,352 A, whichthat
three-phase theThe
fault.
equates
nsformer’s
peak current impedance
magnitude has
was been
found modeled
to
a current magnitude of 1,663 A, indicating that thebe correctly.
2,352 A, whichSimilar
equates
ts
tocan a be
nsformer’s performed
current for has
magnitude
impedance otheroffault
been 1,663typesA,such
modeled as phase-phase
indicating
correctly. that the
Similar
dts single-line-to-ground
transformer’s impedance faults.
has been modeled
can be performed for other fault types such as phase-phase correctly. Similar
tests can be performed
d single-line-to-ground faults. for other fault types such as phase-phase
and single-line-to-ground faults.
Figure 24: Low-Side Voltage from Load-Flow Test
Figure 24: Low-Side Voltage from Load-Flow Test
Figure 24: Low-Side Voltage from Load-Flow Test
Figure 24: Low-Side Voltage from Load-Flow Test

Figure 22: High-Side Currents from ATP Simulation for Three-

Phase Through-Fault
Figure 22: High-Side Currents from ATP Simulation for Three-
Figure 22: High-Side
Phase Currents from ATP Simulation for Three-
Through-Fault
Another good test of the transformer
Phase model is a simple load
Through-Fault
wAnother
check.good
For test
this ofexample, a load model
the transformer was modeled
is a simpleonload
the
ondary of
Another the
good transformer
test of the with
transformer an
model impedance
is a simple of
load Figure 25: High-Side Currents from Load Flow Test
w check. For this example, a load was modeled on the
4326+j0.02095
flow
ondarycheck. theOhms.
of For this At nominal
example,
transformer a voltage,
loadanwasthis
with load would
modeled
impedance onofthe Figure 25: High-Side Currents from Load Flow Test
Figure 25: High-Side Currents from Load
Figure 25: Flow Test Currents from Load Flow Test
High-Side
3.6 MVA,
secondary which
of is
the the transformer’s
transformer maximum
with an
4326+j0.02095 Ohms. At nominal voltage, this load would rating.
impedance The of C. Transformer Inrush Simulation Example
cuit used for this
0.04326+j0.02095 test is
Ohms. illustrated
At in
nominal Figure 23.
voltage,
3.6 MVA, which is the transformer’s maximum rating. The this load would
C. One of the limitations
Transformer of the hybrid
Inrush Simulation Example transformer model is
be 3.6
cuit MVA,
used which
for this test is
is the transformer’s
illustrated maximum
in Figure 23. rating. The thatC.it Transformer
does not Inrush Simulation
account for residual Example
flux upon simulation
circuit used for this test is illustrated in Figure 23. One of the limitations of the hybrid transformer model is
startup.OneAs a
ofwork-around
the limitations to the
of limitation,
the
that it does not account for residual flux upon hybrid an arrangement
transformer as is
model
simulation
shown
that in
it Figure
does
startup. AsAaTutorial 26
not
work-aroundcan be
account used.
for In the
residual simplified
flux upon example
to the limitation, an arrangement assimulation
POWERENG.COM startup. for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis
As a work-around to the Inlimitation, an arrangement 14
shown in Figure 26 can be used. the simplified example as
shown in Figure 26 can be used. In the simplified example
9
 Transformer Inrush Simulation Example
below, a source
One of the limitations of theishybrid
connected to the hybrid
transformer model transformer
is that it does through
not account shows the inrush
two
for residualbelow, time-controlled
flux upon a source
simulation switches.
is connected
startup.toAs The
thea upper
hybridswitch is
to closed
transformer
work-around at the anshows
the through
limitation, transformer descri
the inrush
arrangement start
two of the
astime-controlled simulation
shown in Figureswitches. and
26 can be is
The configured
upper
used. to
In switch open
is closed
the simplified at a zero
at the below,
example performed
transformer
a with the
describ
crossing
start of the
source is connected of the
to the source
simulation voltage. The
and is configured
hybrid transformer lower switch
through two to open is configured performed with thew
at a zero switches.
time-controlled current magnitude
to close
crossing
The upper switch
a short time
of the source
is closed
after the
voltage.
at the start
first
of the
switch
Thesimulation opens.
lower switch When
and is
the upper
is configured
configured to open
the nominal
current current
at magnitude w
switch
to close opens,
a short the core
timevoltage. flux
after theThe in the
firstlower transformer
switch opens. will be near a the typical range
a zero crossing of the source switch is When
configuredthe upper
to close the nominal current
a short
peak due
switch to the
opens, thecore flux
fluxeffectively
coreWhen in the being the will
transformer integral of the
be near theoretical inrush c
time after the first switch opens. the upper switch opens, the core aflux inthe
thetypical range f
terminal
peak due voltage.
to the To flux
core produce a worst-case
effectively being inrush
the current,
integral of the
the from the inrush
theoretical transfor
cu
transformer will be near a peak due to the core flux effectively being the integral of the
lower switch
terminal voltage. is closed
To at a subsequent
produce a worst-case zero crossing
inrush current, in the
the manufacturer’s
from the doc
transform
terminal voltage. To produce a worst-case inrush current, the lower switch is closed at a
opposite
lower direction.
switch isinclosedThisat drives the corezero
a subsequent intocrossing
saturation and
in the current as 1,342doc
manufacturer’s A.
subsequent causes
zero crossing
the transformerthe opposite
to draw direction.
a substantialThisinrush
drivescurrent.
the core into saturation
The
opposite direction. This drives the core into saturation and current as 1,342 A.w
the ATP model
and causes switch
the transformer
timing is to draw a substantial
illustrated in Figure 27.inrush current. The switch timing is
published theoretic
causes the transformer to draw a substantial inrush current. The the ATP model w
illustrated in Figure 27. number of approxi
switch timing is illustrated in Figure 27. published theoretic
hybrid of
number transformer
approxim
satisfactory
hybrid results.
transformer
satisfactory results.

Figure 26: Inrush Simulation Setup

Figure 26: Inrush Simulation Setup

Figure 26: Inrush Simulation Setup
Figure 2
Figure 28

A. Line Constants
ATPConstants
A. Line can be used
canATP
thencan
be used to s
be used
can then be used toisse
constant study
characteristics
constant studyofisth
make specific ofdata
characteristics the
impedance
make matrices
specific data
parameters matrices
impedance are listed
parameters are listed
T
Figure 27: A-Phase Voltage and Switch Open and Close Times
T
Ma
Figure 27: A-Phase Voltage and Switch Open and Close Times
The authors
Figure 27: A-Phase Voltage observed
and Switch excessive
Open and noise
Close Times in the phase voltages Ma
in the Co
Thesimulation that wasexcessive
authors observed mitigatednoise by the in addition
the phaseofvoltages
a 10kΩ
shunt
in resistor, which
the simulation canmitigated
that was be seen by added downstream
the addition of the
of a 10kΩ Con
Co
The authorsswitches
observedin excessive
Figure noise in theWhenphase adding
voltagesshuntin theorsimulation that was
shunt resistor, which26can below.
be seen added downstream ofseries
the Con
mitigated byimpedances
the additionto of smooth
a 10kΩ shunt resistor,orwhich
out voltage canwaveforms
current be seen added in downstream Co
switches in Figure 26 below. When adding shunt or series
of the switches
ATP, in care
Figure 26 below.
should be Whentoadding
taken size shunt
them
impedances to smooth out voltage or current waveforms in or series
such that impedances
they do not to smooth Con
Lin
out voltage ATP,
or current
impact waveforms
carethe overall
should in ATP,tocare
results
be taken of should
size be taken
the simulation
them such that to size
(e.g.
they dothem
not such that
high Lin
Ea
they do not impact
impact
impedancesthe
theoverall results
for shunt
overall of theofsimulation
components
results theand (e.g.impedances
low
simulation high impedances
(e.g. for for shunt
high
components series
and low
impedancescomponents).
impedances
for shunt for series components).
components and low impedances for Ear
series components).
The results of the Theinrush
resultssimulations can be
of the inrush checked by
simulations comparing
can be checked the byresults to typical
1) LCC templat
rules of thumb for
comparing maximum
the of transformer
results to typicalinrush. A peak
rules of thumb inrush current of 8-10 times
The results the inrush simulations can befor maximum
checked by 1) LCC template
the transformer’s nominal
transformer
comparing current
theinrush.
resultsAtorating
peak is often
inrush
typical used
rulescurrent asofa rule
of thumb for of
8-10 thumb
times
maximum In this part of AT
thefor the worst-
case inrushtransformer
current magnitude.
transformer’s nominal Figure 28
current shows
rating the
is inrush
often currents
used as a obtained
rule of and
in Inmaterial
ATP this partdata fo
of AT
inrush. A peak inrush current of 8-10 times the
thumb for the
for the test transformer’s
transformer worst-case
described inrush
above. The current
inrush magnitude.
simulation Figure
was 28
performed limit
and withto how data
material manyfo
nominal current rating is often used as a rule of
thumb for the worst-case inrush current magnitude. Figure 28 limit to how many p

POWERENG.COM 10 Analysis
A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection 15

10
 ow, a source is connected to the hybrid transformer through shows the inrush currents obtained in ATP for the test
o time-controlled switches. The upper switch is closed at the transformer described above. The inrush simulation was
rt of the simulation and is configured to open at a zero performed with the transformer unloaded. The peak inrush
ssing of the source voltage. The lower switch is configured current magnitude was found to be 1,420 A, which is 9.43 times
close a short time after the first switch opens. When the upper the nominal current rating of the transformer. This fits within
itch opens, the core flux in the transformer will be near a the typical range for a power transformer. The maximum
ak due to the core flux effectively being the integral of the theoretical inrush current for a transformer can be requested
the transformer unloaded. The peak inrush current magnitude was found to be 1,420 A,
minal voltage. To produce a worst-case inrush current, the from the transformer manufacturer. For our case, the
which is 9.43 times the nominal current rating of the transformer. This fits within the typical
wer switch is closed at a subsequent zero crossing in the manufacturer’s documentation listed the maximum inrush
range for a power transformer. The maximum theoretical inrush current for a transformer
posite direction. This drives the core into saturation and current as 1,342 A. The maximum inrush current observed in
can be requested from the transformer manufacturer. For our case, the manufacturer’s
uses the transformer to draw a substantial inrush current. The the ATP model was within 5.5% of the manufacturer’s
documentation listed the maximum inrush current as 1,342 A. The maximum inrush current
itch timing is illustrated in Figure 27. published theoretical maximum inrush current. Given the
observed in the ATPofmodel
number was within 5.5%
approximations made of during
the manufacturer’s published
modeling with the theoretical
maximum hybrid
inrush current.
transformer component, the ATP model yielded modeling with
Given the number of approximations made during
the hybrid satisfactory
transformer results.
component, the ATP model yielded satisfactory results.

Figure 26: Inrush Simulation Setup

Figure 28: Results of Inrush Simulation in ATP

Figure 28: Results of Inrush Simulation in ATP

VI. LINE MODELING

A. Line Constants
Line Modeling
ATP can be used to perform line constant calculations
Table which
2: Key Line Parameters
Line Constants
can then be used to set distance protection in line relays. The line
ATP can be used to perform
constant study isline constant
based on the electricalMaximum
and physical
Operating Voltage
calculations, which can then be used to set line. ATP allows the user to
characteristics of the transmission
distance protection in linedata
make specific relays. Thetoline
inputs Conductor
create accurate Spacingand
susceptance
constant study is based
impedance on the for
matrices electrical
self andandmutual coupling. Some key
Conductor Type
parameters are of
physical characteristics listed
the in Table II.
transmission
line. ATP allows the user to make specific Conductor Sag
TABLE
data inputs to create accurate II. KEY LINE PARAMETERS
susceptance
Figure 27: A-Phase Voltage and Switch Open and Close Times
and impedance matrices for self and mutual
Maximum Operating Voltage
Line Length
The authors observed excessive noise in the phase voltages
coupling. Some key parameters are listed in
the simulation that was mitigated by the addition of a 10kΩ
Table 2.
Conductor Spacing Earth Resistivity
unt resistor, which can be seen added downstream of the Conductor Type
LCC templates
itches in Figure 26 below. When adding shunt or series
pedances to smooth out voltage or current waveforms in part of ATPDraw, theConductor
In this Sag the geometric and material data for an
user can specify
TP, care should be taken to size them such that they do not
overhead line or a cable. There
Line Length to how many phases can be added to the LCC
is no limit
pact the overall results of the simulation (e.g. template.
high This feature is beneficial when there are several lines running parallel to one
pedances for shunt components and low impedances for which would affectEarth
another Resistivity
the mutual coupling.
ies components).
The Bergeron and Pi Models are most commonly used for the LCC template inputs as
The results of the inrush simulations can be checked 1) 29.
by in Figure
shown LCCThetemplates
Pi model is best used for shorter lines (~ less than 50 miles)
mparing the results to typical rules of thumb for maximum
and calculating line constants, whereas lines longer than 100 miles exhibit the
nsformer inrush. A peak inrush current of 8-10 times the
distributed In thisofpart
effects theof ATPDraw,
electrical the user can
parameters veryspecify the geometric
significantly. Therefore, a distributed
parameter representation (Bergeron model) is recommended.There is no
nsformer’s nominal current rating is often used as a rule of and material data for an overhead line or a cable.
mb for the worst-case inrush current magnitude. Figure 28 limit to how many phases can be added to the LCC template.

10

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 16
 The Bergeron and Pi Models are most commonly used for
the LCC template inputs as shown in Figure 29. The Pi model
is best used for shorter lines (~ less than 50 miles) and
calculating line constants, whereas lines longer than 100 miles
exhibit the distributed effects of the electrical parameters very
significantly. Therefore, a distributed parameter representation
(Bergeron model) is recommended.

Figure 29: LCC Template Menu Figure 29: LCC template menu

In the model tab, select Overhead Line for the system type,
and the # Overhead
In the model tab, select of phases.Line When for skin effect istype,
the system checked,
and thethe user isof phases.
number
prompted to enter the DC resistance on the next
When skin effect is checked, the user is prompted to enter the DC resistance tab. When this on the next
is not checked, use AC resistance. ATP has internal equations to
tab. When this is not checked, use AC resistance. ATP has internal equations to convert
convert between AC and DC resistance. Since skin effect is
between AC and DC resistance.
expected to occur, Since skin effect
it's a good practiceis to
expected to occur,
check this it’suse
box and a good practice
to check this box
the DC resistance. When skin effect is checked and using DC using
and use the DC resistance. When skin effect is checked and
DC resistance,resistance,
only the outer
only radius
the outer of the conductor
radius is necessary.
of the conductor Because the current
is necessary.
flows on the outside
Since theof current
the conductor,
flows onthe theinner radius
outside of theis conductor,
not used inthetheinner
calculations and
radiusIfisa not
can be set to zero. used in is
conductor thebundled,
calculations
selectandAutocanBundling
be set toand
zero.
theIfuser
a will be
conductor
prompted to add is bundled,
in the number, selectand
spacing, “Auto
angleBundling” and the user
of the conductor will
in the data tab.
be prompted
ATP uses Carson’s to add inmethod.
Line Impedance the number, spacing, and angle of the
conductor in the data tab. ATP uses Carson's Line Impedance
Under the datamethod.
tab for the LCC is where the user will enter the information of the line
shown in Figure 30.
Under the data tab for the LCC is where the user will enter
the information of the line shown in Figure 30.
This feature is beneficial when there are several lines running B. OPGW
The outer radius (Rout) of the line has the largest effect on
parallel to one another which would affect the mutual coupling. the line resistance. The phase spacing affects the inductance of During an ear
type), return curre
The Bergeron and Pi Models are most commonly used for the line. The line height "Vtower” and “Vmid” which is the sag, current can be ve
the LCC template inputs as shown in Figure 29. The Pi model affects the electromagnetic fields on the ground. Select “View” circuit current, pa
is best used for shorter lines (~ less than 50 miles) and for a graphical representation of the conductors as shown in and other line ch
calculating line constants, whereas lines longer than 100 miles Figure 31. causes heating that
exhibit the distributed effects of the electrical parameters very of the OPGW. OP
significantly. Therefore, a distributed parameter representation conductors becaus
(Bergeron model) is recommended. fibers. OPGW ma
sec value that shou

11

Figure 30: LCC Data Tab Figure 30: LCC data tab

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 17
(Bergeron model) is recommended.

The outer radius (Rout) of the line has the largest effect on the line resistance. The
phase spacing affects the inductance of the line. The line height “Vtower” and “Vmid,”
which is the sag, affects the electromagnetic fields on the ground. Select View for a
graphical representation of the conductors as shown in Figure 31.
Figure 30: LCC data tab

Figure 29: LCC template menu

In the model tab, select Overhead Line for the system type,
and the # of phases. When skin effect is checked, the user is
prompted to enter the DC resistance on the next tab. When this
is not checked, use AC resistance. ATP has internal equations to
convert between AC and DC resistance. Since skin effect is
expected to occur, it's a good practice to check this box and use
the DC resistance. When skin effect is checked and using DC
resistance, only the outer radius of the conductor is necessary.
Since the current flows on the outside of the conductor, the inner
radius is not used in the calculations and can be set to zero. If a
conductor is bundled, select “Auto Bundling” and the user will
be prompted to add in the number, spacing, and angle of the
conductor in the data tab. ATP uses Carson's Line Impedance
method.
Figure 31: LCC Model View
Under the data tab for the LCC is where the user will enter Figure 31: LCC model view
the information of the line shown in Figure 30.
B. OPGW
The outer radius (Rout) of the line has the largest effect on
OPGWof During an earth fault (Single or Double Line to Ground
the line resistance. The phase spacing affects the inductance
During an type),
earth faultreturn current
(Single will flow
or Double through
Line to Ground thetype),
OPGW. returnThe returnwill flow
current
the line. The line height "Vtower” and “Vmid” which is the sag,
through the currentThe
OPGW. canreturn
be very high,can
current only
be limited
very high,byonly
the limited
available by short
the available
affects the electromagnetic fields on the ground. Select “View”
circuit current, parallel fault paths, tower footing resistances,
for a graphical representation of the conductors as shown in current, parallel fault paths, tower footing resistances, and other line
short circuit
and other line characteristics. The high return current flow
Figure 31. characteristics. The high return current flow causes heating that can damage the
causes heating that can cause damage to the internal fiber strands
internal fiber strands of the OPGW.
of the OPGW. OPGW OPGWheatingheating limits
limits tend to tend to bethan
be lower lower than
other
other conductors because of the thermal sensitivity of the optical
conductors because of the thermal sensitivity of the optical fibers. OPGW
manufacturers publish
fibers. thermal
OPGW limits as a kA
manufacturers -sec value
publish
2
thermalthatlimits
should asnot
a kAbe2-exceeded.
sec value that should not be exceeded.
Contingency conditions increase the portion of the total fault current flowing through
the OPGW or increase the time the OPGW is exposed to fault current. A contingency
most often considered is a broken overhead shield wire (OHSW) where more fault
11
current would be forced onto the OPGW. Figure 32 shows a double circuit with an OPGW
and a shield wire modeled. A series of switching and current probes are placed along
segments of the line to determine fault currents.

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 18
 OPGW is exposed to fault current. A contingency most often the line as well
considered is a broken overhead shield wire (OHSW) where worst case fault s
more fault current would be forced onto the OPGW. Figure 32 the tower footing
shows a double circuit with an OPGW and a shield wire ground. The LCC
modeled. A series of switching and current probes are placed phases for the O
along segments of the line to determine fault currents. connection in th
OPGW/OHSW t
segmented. That
OPGW/OHSW
continuously grou
The simulated
the parameters th
thermal rating.
The inductanc
component on
asymmetrical cur
(within a few cy
heating while pre
X/R ratio for the f
fault initiation.
An addition
analysis to ensu
normal operating

COMTRADE
Exchange, is a s
data from simul
format and struc
COMTRADE rec
• The data
• A config
• An optio

The files ma
COMTRADE is
software (includi
equipment. Test s
data in COMTR
voltages from the

To save result
options exist. The
program by sele
vars.” Then selec

Figure 32: Double Circuit Model with OPGW

Figure 32: Double circuit model with OPGW

TheinsetFigure
The set up illustrated up illustrated in fault
32 has the Figure 32 has the
occurring faultfirst
at the occuring at the
span from
substation whichthe should
first span from
result thehighest
in the substation
faultwhich should
currents, resultbreaking
however, in the the
transmission line into spans of about two miles and placing faults at either end of the
line as well as midline is recommended to determine the worst case fault scenario. 12
The resistances shown on each span is the tower footing resistance to provide a fault
current path to ground. The LCC template will also be updated to include the phases
for the OPGW/OHSW in order to make an electrical connection in the ATP model. The
program also allows the OPGW/OHSW to be modeled as continuously grounded or
segmented. That can be used to check if segmenting the OPGW/OHSW is economically
attractive compared to a continuously grounded shieldwire system.

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 19
 The simulated fault current and breaker clearing times are the parameters that will have
the most impact on the OPGW thermal rating.

The inductance of the transmission line may impose a DC component on the short
circuit current producing an asymmetrical current. The DC offset decays relatively
quickly (within a few cycles) but can have a significant impact on heating while present.
The DC offset is a function of the system X/R ratio for the fault condition considered
and the timing of the fault initiation.

An addition of an OPGW requires iterative fault current analysis to ensure the OPGW will
not be damaged during normal operating conditions.

COMTRADE Output
COMTRADE is a structure for storing and exchanging transient data from simulations,
test results, and event records. The format and structure are detailed in IEEE C37.111-2013.
A COMTRADE record will typically have three files:
• The data file (.dat)
• A configuration file (.cfg)
• An optional header/information file (.hdr/.inf)
The files may be in a binary or readable ASCII format. COMTRADE is widely supported
by most transient analysis software (including ATP), relay event reports, and relay test
equipment. Test sets often include the ability to read in transient data in COMTRADE
format and play back currents and voltages from the file into a relay.

To save results of a simulation in COMTRADE format two options exist. The results can
be saved directly from the PlotXY program by selecting the desired quantities and using
“Save vars.” Then select “.CFG” as the file format:

Figure 33: Saving COMTRADE Results

Figure 33: Saving COMTRADE results

Note that depending on the step size of the simulation, the

sample rate for the event file may be too high for test equipment
POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 20
to replay. You can adjust the ATP setting “Plot freq” under ATP
Output Settings to effectively down sample the output. A Plot
 Note that depending on the step size of the simulation, the sample rate for the event file
may be too high for test equipment to replay. You can adjust the ATP setting “Plot Freq”
under ATP Output Settings to effectively down sample the output. A Plot Freq setting
of 2, for example, would output every 2 samples from the simulation to the output file.

Another option is to use the COMTRADE tool found in the probes menu. This tool
offers additional configuration of the output file, trigger time for the record, sampling
frequency, and scaling factors for the analog quantities. The recorder requires the
three phase inputs be mapped to each analog input channel; the number of channels is
selectable within the device menu.

Figure 33: Saving COMTRADE results

Note that depending on the step size of the simulation, the

sample rate for the event file may be too high for test equipment
to replay. You can adjust the ATP setting “Plot freq” under ATP
Output Settings to effectively down sample the output. A Plot
Freq setting of 2, for example, would output every 2 samples
from the simulation to the output file.
Figure
Figure 34: COMTRADE Model
Another option is to use the COMTRADE tool found in34:
theCOMTRADE Model
“probes” menu. This tool offers additional configuration of the
output file, trigger time for the record, sampling frequency, and Under the COMTRADE tab the following fields are
scaling factors for the analog quantities. The recorderUnder
requires
the COMTRADE
available: tab the following fields are available:
the three phase inputs be mapped to each analog input channel;
the number of channels is selectable within the device menu. • id, automatically
• id, automatically
populated based populated based
on the on the
input
• ccbm, circuit component name, this will modify
nodeinput node

• ccbm, circuit (append)

component name,
to the analogthis
namewill modify (append) to the analog name
• ph, power• system
ph, power
phase system phase
• unit, the units to display for the analog value
• unit, the units to display for the analog value
• a, channel multiplier (typically 1)
• a, channel multiplier
• b, channel (typically 1)
offset (typically 0)
• b, channel• offset
skew,(typically
from the 0) start of the sample period (typically 0)
• prim, instrument transformer primary turns
• sec, instrument transformer secondary turns
• P/S, indicates the analog is in primary (P) or secondary
POWERENG.COM A(s) quantities.
Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 21
 • skew, from the start of the sample period (typically 0)
• prim, instrument transformer primary turns
• sec, instrument transformer
Using prim, sec, and secondary turns
P/S settings may alter the way the 36. The system mod
• COMTRADE
P/S, indicates the data is
analog presented
is in depending
primary (P) or on the specific
secondary (s) test
quantities.230kV/13.8kV step-
equipment or viewing software settings. bus, and a series of do
Using prim, sec, and P/S settings may alter the way the COMTRADE data is presented
was configured to
depending on The
the specific
default test equipment
settings for the or viewing software
COMTRADE modelsettings.
assumes approximately 15 kA
the first three analog channels are three-phase voltages and the
The defaultsecond
settings for channels
three the COMTRADE model assumes
are three-phase the first
current inputs. ATPthree
mayanalogdelta-wye,
channels 60 MVA
are three-phase voltages and the second three channels are three-phase main
current transformer’s
inputs.
not automatically recognize that an input is a current or voltage.
ATP may not automatically recognize that an input is a current or voltage. To modeled
manually using the “ty
To manually set this, use the Edit Definitions button and
set this, use the Edit Definitions button and navigate to the nodes
navigate to the nodes tab. There the “Kind” of input node can tab. There The
the current
Kind transform
of input node can be defined directly with 2 corresponding to a voltage
be defined directly with 2 corresponding to a voltage node, and node, as
and2000:5
1 C200 CTs
representing a current node.
1 representing a current node. in section III. The me
approximated using
MVA distribution tra
were configured as d

Figure 35: Configure current and voltage nodes

Figure 35: Configure Current and Voltage Nodes

Selecting the help button in this tab will bring up a full list
Selecting the help button
of “Kind” in this
options for tab will bring up a full list of Kind options for reference.
reference.
Following a simulation,
Followingthe output file the
a simulation, is written
output tofilethe same location
is written as the model by
to the same
default. ATP
location as the model by default. ATP does not use the optional will be written.
does not use the optional .hdr file, only the .cfg and .dat files
The results.HDR
can be previewed
file, only thewithin
.CFG ATP
and by hitting
.DAT filesthe View
will be button
written.atThe
the bottom of
The objective of
the model attributes
results can be previewed within ATP by hitting the “View”were recorded
tab. This can be useful to quickly verify the results
residual ground overc
as expected.
button at the bottom of the model attributes tab. This can be main breaker at th
useful to quickly verify the results were recorded as expected. concern was the gro
Application Example energization of the
simulate the worst-c
A practical use of ATP simulation results is toEtest
VIII. APPLICATION the transient response of a protective
XAMPLE
modeled as described
relay, similar toAwhat is done
practical useduring
of ATPhardware-in-the-loop
simulation results(HIL)
is totesting. While closed-loop
test the to establish residual
testing cannot be performed
transient response ofusing ATP, openrelay,
a protective loop similar
playbackto of ATP
what is simulation
done results
switch was used to re
can provide valuable insight into a relay’s response to system transients. Several HIL
during hardware in the loop (HIL) testing. While closed-loop modeled in series wi
tests were recently performed to evaluate the response of residual ground overcurrent capture the inrush cur
testing cannot be performed using ATP, open loop playback of
elements employed in a zone-selective interlocking scheme applied on the medium and CT secondary c
ATP simulation results can provide valuable insight into a
voltage system at a large industrial facility. A series of tests were performed to observe
record for playback
relays response to system transients. Several HIL tests were
the response of these residual ground elements to transformer inrush as documented secondary currents ca
recently performed to evaluate the response of residual ground
in “Impacts of Transformer Inrush Current on CT Performance and Residual Ground
overcurrent elements employed in a zone-selective interlocking
Overcurrent Protection”.8 A similar power system was modeled in ATP. A single line
scheme applied on the medium voltage system at a large
of the system is shown in Figure 36. The system model includes an equivalent utility
industrial
source, a 230 kV/13.8 facility. A seriestransformer,
kV step-down of tests weretheperformed to observe
main distribution bus, and a series
the response
of downstream of these
transformers. Theresidual groundwas
utility source elements to transformer
configured to provide a short
inrush as documented in [8]. A similar power system was
modeled in ATP. A single line of the system is shown in Figure
POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 22
 Using prim, sec, and P/S settings may alter the way the 36. The system model includes an equivalent utility source, a
OMTRADE data is presented depending on the specific test 230kV/13.8kV step-down transformer, the main distribution
uipment or viewing software settings. bus, and a series of downstream transformers. The utility source
was configured to provide a short circuit current of
The default settings for the COMTRADE model assumes approximately 15 kA. The 230kV/13.8kV transformer was a
e first three analog channels are three-phase voltages and the delta-wye, 60 MVA transformer, with 16% impedance. The
cond three channels are three-phase current inputs. ATP may
main transformer’s core and capacitance parameters were
t automatically recognize that an input is a current or voltage.
circuit current of approximately 15 kA. The 230 kV/13.8 kV transformer was a delta-wye,
modeled using the “typical values” option in the Hybrid model.
o manually set this, use the Edit Definitions button and transformer, with 16% impedance. The main transformer’s core and capacitance
60 MVA
vigate to the nodes tab. There the “Kind” of input node can
parameters
The current transformers for the relay under test were modeled
were modeled using the “typical values” option in the Hybrid model. The current
defined directly with 2 corresponding to a voltage node, and
transformersas 2000:5 C200under
for the relay CTs and
testfollowed the same
were modeled approach
as 2000:5 described
C200 CTs and followed the
representing a current node. same approach described in section III. The medium voltage potential were
in section III. The medium voltage potential transformers transformers were
approximatedapproximated usingvoltage
using a resistive a resistive voltage
divider. Twelvedivider.
3.6 MVATwelve 3.6 transformers
distribution
MVA distribution transformers were included in the model and
were included in the model and were configured as described in the Transformer Modeling
and Inrush were configured
Simulations as described in Section V.
Section.

Figure 35: Configure current and voltage nodes

Selecting the help button in this tab will bring up a full list
“Kind” options for reference.

Following a simulation, the output file is written to theFigure

same36: Sample System Figure 36: Sample system
cation as the model by default. ATP does not use the optional
DR file, only the .CFG and .DAT files will be written. The The objective of the tests was to check the response of a
sults can be previewed within ATP by hitting the “View” The objective of the tests was to check the response of a residual ground overcurrent
residual ground overcurrent relay that would be installed on the
tton at the bottom of the model attributes tab. This can relaybethat would be installed on the main breaker at this industrial installation. Of particular
main breaker at this industrial installation. Of particular
concern was the ground overcurrent relay’s response during energization of the 12 distribu-
eful to quickly verify the results were recorded as expected. concern was the ground overcurrent relay’s response during
tion transformers. To simulate
energization of the the twelve
worst-case inrush current,
distribution two switches
transformers. To were modeled
as described simulate the worst-case inrush current, two switches were flux in the
in Section V. The upper switch was used to establish residual
VIII. APPLICATION EXAMPLE transformers, and the
modeled aslower switch
described in was usedV.toThe
Section re-energize. The current
upper switch transformers
was used
A practical use of ATP simulation results is to test werethemodeled
to establish residual flux in the transformers, and the lower the inrush
in series with the lower switch such that they would capture
current
nsient response of a protective relay, similar to what is done waveform.
switch wasThe used
PT secondary voltage
to re-energize. andcurrent
The CT secondary current
transformers were captured
were
ring hardware in the loop (HIL) testing. While closed-loopin a COMTRADE record for playback with a test-set. Figure 37
modeled in series with the lower switch such that they would shows the CT secondary
sting cannot be performed using ATP, open loop playback of currents captured during the simulation.
capture the inrush current waveform. The PT secondary voltage
TP simulation results can provide valuable insight into a and CT secondary current were captured in a COMTRADE
ays response to system transients. Several HIL tests were record for playback with a test-set. Figure 37 shows the CT
cently performed to evaluate the response of residual ground secondary currents captured during the simulation.
ercurrent elements employed in a zone-selective interlocking
heme applied on the medium voltage system at a large
dustrial facility. A series of tests were performed to observe
e response of these residual ground elements to transformer
rush as documented in [8]. A similar power system was
odeled in ATP. A single line of the system is shown in Figure

14

Figure 37: ATP output

Figure 37: ATP Output

Figure 38 shows the results of the COMTRADE playback

to a protective relay. The upper plot shows the filtered phase
POWERENG.COM currents, Athe second
Tutorial plot shows
for Applying the measured
the Alternative phase(ATP)
Transients Program current
to Protection Analysis 23
magnitude, and the third analog plot shows the harmonic
 Figure 38 shows the results of the COMTRADE playback to a protective relay. The upper
plot shows the filtered phase currents, the second plot shows the measured phase current
magnitude, and the third analog plot shows the harmonic content extracted by the relay
Figure 37: ATP output from the current waveforms. The top four digital traces show the harmonic blocking
functions asserting, which is expected during an inrush event. The lower digital trace
Figure 38 shows the results of the COMTRADE playback
shows the residual ground overcurrent element picking up due to severe CT saturation.
to a protective relay. The upper plot shows theTripping
filteredisphase
restrained in this case by both the harmonic blocking function and the absence
currents, the second plot shows the measuredofphase current
residual voltage.
magnitude, and the third analog plot shows the harmonic
A similar energization
content extracted by the relay from the current waveforms. The case was performed using HIL simulation with the same relay
interfaced
top four digital traces show the harmonic blocking functionsto a real time simulation of the same power system. The results of the HIL
simulation are
asserting, which is expected during an inrush event. The lower shown in Figure 39. The current and harmonic magnitudes in Figure 39
differ slightly
digital trace shows the residual ground overcurrent element from those in Figure 38, but are very similar. The relay response during the
Figure 38: Relay event from COMTRADE playback of ATP file
HIL simulation is also very similar to that observed during COMTRADE playback.
picking up due to severe CT saturation. Tripping is restrained
in this case by both the harmonic blocking function and the
absence of residual voltage.

A similar energization case was performed using HIL

simulation with the same relay interfaced to a real time
simulation of the same power system. The results of the HIL
simulation are shown in Figure 39. The current and harmonic
magnitudes in Figure 39 differ slightly from those in Figure 38,
but are very similar. The relay response during the HIL
simulation is also very similar to that observed during
COMTRADE playback.

Figure 38: Relay event from COMTRADE playback of ATP file Figure 39: Event record from past project
Figure 38: Relay Event From COMTRADE Playback of ATP File Figure 39: Event Record From Past Project

15

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 24
 ATP Relay Components
ATP has several built-in protective relay components for functions such as overcurrent,
time-overcurrent, quadrilateral distance, mho distance, differential, over/undervoltage
and over/underfrequency. A detailed introduction to these components is outside the
scope of this paper. These components can be useful for getting a general idea for
how a relay might respond to a system disturbance. Care should be taken when using
these components as the algorithms employed by the generic models in ATP may not
align with the implementation for a given manufacturer’s relay. The models can be
modified and/or refined, but this can be a time-consumingand difficult task if the user is
not familiar with ATP’s programming language. Open-loop testing using a COMTRADE
export from ATP played back to an actual relay is a more efficient and effective method
for gauging relay performance.

Conclusion
ATP is a free tool that provides the capability to model simple and complex electrical
systems and run various transient simulations. It allows engineers to model power system
components in greater detail than typical steady-state analysis software. Using ATP,
protection engineers can quickly calculate transmission line parameters from physical
data, as well as investigate the impacts of CT saturation, transformer inrush, and other
complex phenomena on protection system performance.

Model validation is an important part of any transient simulation. It’s possible to produce
simulation results that appear reasonable but may not match reality. Hand calculations,
test reports, and simplified cases in other software should all serve to validate a transient
model prior to applying the results of a simulation.

The output of a simulation can be exported in COMTRADE format from ATP and played
back to a microprocessor-based relay using commonly available test sets in an open-
loop format. This can be advantageous for engineers who do not have access to
hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulators but have a need to verify a relays response to
complex system conditions. While this type of testing does not provide all the features
of a closed loop environment, it can be used to generate very similar results to HIL
testing on a smaller and less expensive scale.

Appendix – ATP Installation

This appendix provides guidance on installing ATP. In order to obtain the installation files
from www.atpdraw.net, the user must first become licensed. The license application form
can be found at www.eeug.org. The steps below will guide the reader through a manual
setup of ATP and ATPDRAW. This setup was tested in Windows 10. The specific steps
here are intended for new users. Experienced users may find various ways to customize
setup. Screenshots are from version 7.0 of ATPDraw. Setup of the previous stable version
(6.3) looks very similar.

The following ATP files were obtained prior to the installation process:
• ATP Core Engine Version: tpbigi64.exe and tpgigi64.exe files (4/26/2020 from
www.eeug.org)
• ATPDraw stable version: 7.3 with patch 1 (5/8/2021, source: www.atpdraw.net)
• PlotXY program files (August 2020, source: www.ceraolo-plotxy.ing.unipi.it)
• ATPDraw 7.3 User’s Manual: Preliminary Release No. 1.0 (May 2021, source:
www.atpdraw.net)

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 25
 Step 1 – Remove undesired versions of ATPDraw
Uninstall or delete undesired versions of ATPDraw. A computer that previously had
ATPDraw will likely have a configuration file (ATPDraw.ini) located at: C:\Users\
username\AppData\Roaming\atpdraw\. This file stores the default folder structures
and program settings. If you want different folder structures or program settings to be
loaded on program startup you will need to manually remove the residual configuration
file. Once deleted, a new configuration file will automatically be created when a
new version of ATPDraw is launched. Note that the AppData folder may be hidden.
Instructions to show hidden files can be found online.

It is possible to have multiple versions of ATPDraw on your computer. However, they

share the same .ini file. Consequently, if the installed versions are very different, having
multiple versions may not work well. If an installation is not working properly, one fix may
be to completely remove all ATP/ATPDraw instances and start over with a clean install.

Step 2 – Create folder structure

Create the folders where the ATP core engine, ATPDraw, and PlotXY will be installed
as shown in Table 3. Historically ATP has had difficulty with spaces in path names
(e.g. C:\Program Files\...). Recent versions of ATPDraw seem to have overcome this
problem, but it is something to be aware of if you run into path name problems.
Note that ATPDraw model files (.acp files) cannot have spaces in the filename or
the program will crash.

Table 3: ATP Folder Structure

Folder Function

C:\ATP\ Root directory

C:\ATP\atpintl64\ This will be the folder where the ATP core engine is stored.

C:\ATP\ATPDraw\ This will be the folder where ATPDraw is stored.

C:\ATP\PlotXY\ This will be the folder where the plot program, PlotXY, is stored.

Step 3 – Extract Files to Respective Folders

Obtain the ATP core engine zip file. The file used for this tutorial was atpintl64.zip.
Extract the zip file contents into the folder C:\ATP\atpintl64\. This unpacks several files,
including another zip file called “armafit.” Perform an “extract here” function to unpack
the armafit file into the same C:\ATP\atpintl64\ folder.

Obtain the ATPDraw zip file (the image file, not the setup file). The version used for this
tutorial is ATPDraw73_Image.zip. ATPDraw is the graphical user interface and must be
linked to the core ATP engine (done in a later step). Extract the zip file contents into the
folder C:\ATP\ATPDraw\. Since these are image files, no setup utility is necessary; they
are executable upon extraction. ATPDraw.net has a setup file option for download. Use
of that option is not covered here, but much of the configuration will be similar.

Extract available patches into the ATPDraw folder and allow the unzip utility to overwrite
existing files.

As mentioned in Step 1 you can have more than one version of ATPDraw, but they will
share the same configuration file (ATPDraw.ini) and will therefore point to the same
subfolders, ATP core engine file, and PlotXY program. Consequently, the versions of
ATPDraw will have to be similar. Versions that are too far apart may not call for the
same folder structure or settings. The developer of ATPDraw recommends that each

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 26
 instance of ATPDraw (and accompanying files and subfolders) get its own folder under
the root ATP folder. This means that Step 4 above would be changed to show creation of
multiple folders. For example: C:\ATP\ATPDraw63\ and C:\ATP\ATPDraw73\.

Obtain the PlotXY zip file. The latest version used for this tutorial was PlotXY-2020-Aug-
Folder Function D. Step
Win.zip. PlotXY 4 –plotting
is the Setup ATPDraw
program most used with ATPDraw though there are other
This will be the folderoptions. ExtractNavigate to contents
the zip file the C:\ATP\ATPDraw\
and copy them into folder and C:\ATP\PlotXY\.
the folder run The
where ATPDraw is contents ofAtpdraw.exe. When
the zip file may prompted,
extract into aallow
singlecreation of folders
subfolder. Copy orthatcut
doall the contents
C:\ATP\ATPDraw\
stored. not exist
out of this folder and(click
paste“All”).
them directly into the C:\ATP\PlotXY\ folder.

This will be the folderStep 4 – Setup ATPDraw

Click the ‘ATP’ menu option at the top of the ATPDraw
where the plot program, Navigate toprogram
the window
C:\ATP\ATPDraw\ then select
folder ‘Setup
and runATP connection’
Atpdraw.exe. When(ATP prompted, allow
C:\ATP\PlotXY\
PlotXY, is stored. creation of setup
folders Wizard)
that dofrom the drop-down
not exist menu. You should get the
(click “All”).
window shown in Figure 40. Match the paths and selections
Click the ATP shown.
menuIfoption
already checked,
at the top ofuncheck the radio
the ATPDraw box window
program for ‘Set then select Setup
C. Step 3 – Extract Files to Respective Folders externally (in bat-file or Windows)’. This causes
ATP connection (ATP setup Wizard) from the drop-down menu. You should the ‘Same as get the
window Solver’
shown in option
Figure to
40. appear.
Match The
the ATP
paths core
and engine
selectionscan be
shown. either
If already checked,
Obtain the ATP core engine zip file. The file used for this tpbigi64.exe or Set
tpgigi64.exe. The difference between these two
uncheck
tutorial was atpintl64.zip. Extract the zip file contents into the the radio box for externally (in bat-file or Windows). This causes the Same
files is that the ‘gig’ version allows models with larger
as Solver option to appear. The ATP core engine can be either tpbigi64.exe or tpgigi64.
folder C:\ATP\atpintl64\. This unpacks several files, including component counts. Normally the ‘big’ version is sufficient, but
another zip file called “armafit”. Perform an ‘extractexe. The difference between these two files is that the “gig” version allows models
here’ if you get errors from exceeding component limits in a large
function to unpack the armafit file into the with same
larger component
model you can counts. Normally
try the the “big”
‘gig’ version. version
It is is sufficient,
possible to compilebut if you get
C:\ATP\atpintl64\ folder. errors fromversions
exceeding component limits in a large model
with custom component limits, but that is beyond you can trythethe “gig” version.
It is possible to compile
scope of this versions
document. with custom
For most component
cases, one of limits,
thesebut that is beyond
pre-
Obtain the ATPDraw zip file (the image file, not the thesetup
scope of this document.
compiled files willFor most cases,
be adequate. The one
finalof these
step is toprecompiled
click “Save” files will be
file). The version used for this tutorial is
adequate. and final
The then step
“Ok”.is to click Save and then OK.
ATPDraw73_Image.zip. ATPDraw is the graphical user
interface and must be linked to the core ATP engine (done in a
later step). Extract the zip file contents into the folder
C:\ATP\ATPDraw\. Since these are image files, no setup utility
is necessary; they are executable upon extraction.
ATPDraw.net has a setup file option for download. Use of that
option is not covered here, but much of the configuration will
be similar.

Extract available patches into the ATPDraw folder and

allow the unzip utility to overwrite existing files.

As mentioned in Step 1 you can have more than one version

of ATPDraw, but they will share the same configuration file
(ATPDraw.ini) and will therefore point to the same subfolders,
ATP core engine file, and PlotXY program. Consequently, the
versions of ATPDraw will have to be similar. Versions that are
too far apart may not call for the same folder structure or
settings. The developer of ATPDraw recommends that each
instance of ATPDraw (and accompanying files and subfolders)
get its own folder under the root ATP folder. This means that
Step 4 above would be changed to show creation of multiple
folders. For example: C:\ATP\ATPDraw63\ and
C:\ATP\ATPDraw73\.

Obtain the PlotXY zip file. The latest version used for this
tutorial was PlotXY-2020-Aug-Win.zip. PlotXY is the plotting
program most used with ATPDraw though there are other
options. Extract the zip file contents and copy them into the
folder C:\ATP\PlotXY\. The contents of the zip file may extract
into a single subfolder. Copy/cut all the contents out of this
folder and paste them directly into the C:\ATP\PlotXY\ folder.
Figure 40: ATP setup wizard
Figure 40: ATP Setup Wizard

On the main ATPDraw screen go to the ‘Tools’ menu

item, then select ‘Options’ from the drop-down menu. Set
POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 27

17
 the data in the tabs per the guidelines in Figure 41, Figure 42,
the
andOndata in main
the
Figure the
43.tabs per
ATPDraw
The the guidelines
screen
“General” is in
tab go to Figure
notthe 41,and
Tools
shown Figure
can 42,
menu item,
be then select Options from the
and Figure
leftdrop-down 43. The
at default. menu. “General”
In the Set tab is not
the data in tab,
“Preferences” shown
the tabs
you per and
maythe can be
guidelines
need to in Figure 41, Figure 42, and
left
delete at the
default. In the
Armafit “Preferences”
path. This tab, youformay need to
Figure 43. The General tabfile is needed
is not shown andthe can“Noda”
be left at default. In the Preferences tab,
delete the Armafit
transmission line to path. This
model. file is needed
Pi,the
Bergeron, and for the “Noda”
JMarti areis the
you may need
transmission line delete
model. Pi, Armafit path.
Bergeron, and This file
JMarti needed for the Noda transmission
areentry
the
primary
line models
model. that
Pi, are typically
Bergeron, and used
JMarti so the
are Armafit
the primary models that are typically used so the
primary
can be left models
blank.that arefinishing,
After typically click
used so the Armafit
‘Save’ entry
at the bottom
can Armafit
be left entry can
blank. befinishing,
After left blank. After
click finishing,
‘Save’ at theclick
bottomSave at the bottom of the ATPDraw
of the ATPDraw Options window, then click ‘Apply’, and
of the ATPDraw
Options
finally ‘ok’. Options
clickwindow, window,
then click Apply,then
andclick ‘Apply’,
finally click ok.and
finally click ‘ok’.

Figure 43: View/ATP Ta

Figure 43: View/ATP Ta
Finally, add a link between ATPDraw
Finally,
program for add a link between
convenience. ATPDraw
Select ‘File’ => ‘N
program for convenience.
menu to open a blank file. Select
There is ‘File’ => ‘N
no need t
menu to open
save this a blank
file, but a filefile.
mustThere is no for
be open needthet
save
Go tothis
thefile,
‘ATP’butmenu
a file item
must on be the
open for scr
main the
Go to the ‘ATP’ menu item
Commands’ to get the window shown in on the main scr
Commands’
‘New’ and enter to get the window
“PlotXY” shownCli
as the name. in
‘New’ and enter “PlotXY” as the
for ‘Current PL4’ and enter the path to the ‘name. Cli
for
Figure 41: ‘Current
Preferences
shown. PL4’
ClickTab and enter
‘Update’ the path
and ‘Exit’. Gototothe
the‘
shown. Click ‘Update’ and ‘Exit’.
from the main ATPDraw screen and select ‘ Go to the
Figure 41: Preferences Tab
Figure 41: Preferences Tab from the main ATPDraw screen and select ‘

Figure 42: Files and Folders Tab

Figure 42: Files and Folders Tab
Figure 42: Files and Folders Tab

he tabs per the guidelines in Figure 41, Figure 42,

43. The “General” tab is not shown and can be
ult. In the “Preferences” tab, you may need to
Armafit path. This file is needed for the “Noda”
n line model. Pi, Bergeron, and JMarti are the
odels that are typically used so the Armafit entry Figure 44: Edit Commands W
Figure 44: Edit Commands W
blank. After finishing, click ‘Save’ at the bottom
The final step is to apply any patc
Draw Options window, then click ‘Apply’, and The final These
step is to
available. are apply any patc
occasionally
k ‘ok’. available. These are occasionally

18
18

Figure 43: View/ATP Tab

Figure 43: View/ATP Tab

POWERENG.COM Finally, add a link between

A Tutorial ATPDraw andAlternative
for Applying the the PlotXY
Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 28
program for convenience. Select ‘File’ => ‘New from the main
menu to open a blank file. There is no need to enter anything or
 Figure 43: View/ATP Tab

Finally, add a link between ATPDraw and the PlotXY

program for convenience. Select ‘File’ => ‘New from the main
Finally, add a linkmenu
between ATPDraw
to open a blankand
file. the
TherePlotXY program
is no need for anything
to enter convenience.
or Select
File => New fromsave the main menu
this file, but to open
a file must a blank
be openfile.
forThere is no
the next need
step to enter anything
to work.
or save this file, but
Go atofile
themust
‘ATP’bemenuopenitemfor on
thethe
next step
main to work.
screen Go to‘Edit
and click the ATP menu
item on the main Commands’
screen and clickto getEdit
theCommands
window shown to getinthe
Figure
window44. shown
Click in Figure 44.
Click New and enter ‘New’ and enter
PlotXY as the “PlotXY”
name. Clickas thethe
name.
radioClick the radio
button button PL4 and enter
for Current
for ‘Current PL4’ and enter the path to the
the path to the PlotXY.exe file as shown. Click Update and Exit. Go to the‘PlotXY.exe’ file as
Tools menu item
shown. Click ‘Update’ and ‘Exit’. Go to the ‘Tools’ menu item
from the main ATPDraw screen and select Save Options.
Figure 41: Preferences Tab from the main ATPDraw screen and select ‘Save Options’.

Figure 42: Files and Folders Tab

Figure 44: Edit Commands Window

Figure 44: Edit Commands Window
The final step is to apply any patches that may be
available. These are occasionally released on
The final step is to apply any patches that may be available. These are occasionally
released on www.atpdraw.net. These are generally released as zipped image files of
the ATPDraw.exe 18 file. Copy the zipped image file to the same location as the existing
ATPDraw.exe file and extract it to the same location. Click Yes when a pop-up window
asks for confirmation of file replacement.

References
1. M. J. T. a. B. H. Ariana Hargrave, “Beyond the Knee Point: A Practical Guide to CT
Saturation,” in 44th Annual Western Protective Relay Conference, Spokane
Washington, 2017.

2. IEEE Power System Relaying Committee, “Mathematical Models for Current, Voltage,
and Coupling Capacitor Voltage Transformers,” IEEE Transactions on Power
Delivery, pp. 62-67, January 2000.

3. R. Folkers, “Determine Current Transformer Suitability Using EMTP Models,” in

Western Protective Relay Conference, Spokane Washington, 1999.

4. IEEE Power System Relaying Committee, “CT SAT Calculator (PSRC),” 30 Dec 2001.
[Online]. Available: http://www.pes-psrc.org/kb/published/reports/CT_SAT%20
10-01-03.zip. [Accessed 2002].

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 29
About the Authors 5. I. P. S. R. Committee, “EMTP Reference Models for Transmission Line Relay Testing,”
2005.
Aaron Findley, P.E., is a protection
engineer with POWER Engineers and is
6. L. P. F. P. Hans Kristian Høidalen, ATPDraw Version 7.0 for Windows User’s Manual,
based out of Vancouver, Washington.
2019.
While at POWER, Aaron has worked
on a wide variety of protective relaying
7. B. A. M. F. G. D. I. N. C. Hans K. K. Høidalen, “Implementation and verification of the
projects ranging from distribution
Hybrid Transformer model in ATPDraw,” in International Conference on Power
protection up to EHV series
Systems Transients (IPST’07), Lyon, France, 2007.
compensated line protection and RTDS
modeling and testing. His background
8. A. F. N. M. C. S. D. D. R. T. B. Jared Mraz, “Impacts of Transformer Inrush Current
also includes substation design and
on CT Performance and Residual Ground Overcurrent Protection,” in Western
grounding system analysis. He earned
his bachelor’s degree, summa cum Protective Relay Conference, Spokane WA, 202.
laude, in energy engineering from
9. “IEEE 738-2012 Standard for Calculating the Current-Temperature of Bare Overhead
the Oregon Institute of Technology in
2010 and is currently registered as a Conductors,” IEEE, 2013.
Professional Engineer in California and
10. USDA, “Bulletin 1724E-100, Design Manual For High Voltage Transmission Lines,”
a member of IEEE.
USDA, 2015.
Jared Mraz, P.E., earned his B.S.
degree, summa cum laude, in electrical 11. IEEE Power Engineering Society, “Tutorial on Electromagnetic Transient Program
engineering from the University of Applications to Power System Protection,” in Power Engineering Education
Idaho in 2007. Upon graduation, he Committee, 2000.
joined the SCADA and Analytical
Services group at POWER Engineers in
Clarkston, Washington. He has spent
the past 14 years performing a variety
of electrical system studies, with
an emphasis on protective relaying.
His experience includes protective
relaying for distribution, transmission,
generation, and industrial applications,
as well as testing of protection and
control schemes using Real Time
Digital Simulation. Jared is a registered
professional engineer in Washington,
Texas and Louisiana and is a member of
the WPRC planning committee.

Morgan Brimstein is a protection and

infrastructure design studies engineer
with POWER Engineers in Boise, Idaho.
She graduated with her B.S. degree in
electrical engineering from Boise State
University and has worked for POWER
for the last five years. During her time
at POWER, she has performed various
protection and arc flash studies
for several refineries and primarily
focuses on line design studies
such as insulation coordination,
line impedance calculations, OPGW
thermal analysis, EMF, corona, and
substation grounding studies.

POWERENG.COM A Tutorial for Applying the Alternative Transients Program (ATP) to Protection Analysis 30