TT Mag Issue 019

ISSUE 19
April 2022 transformer-technology.com ISSN 2642-2689
N E W DESIG N
AND ADVANCES
IN TECHNOLOGY
Digital Twins: Revolutionizing Testing of Protection Relays
Power Cable Systems Reliability and Longevity: Past, Present, and the Future
Cost Effective Methods for Repairing Oil and Gas Leaks
Expanding relay testing
capabilities
MLLA Rogowski
functionality
Several protective relay manufacturers are offering
protective relays with Rogowski sensors and voltage
dividers inputs instead of conventional current and
voltage transformers inputs.
With MLLA Rogowski:

Simulate a low-level voltage source from a Rogowski coil
Provides filtering of the low-level outputs
Can be used with any SMRT or FREJA 500 series unit
Three Rogowski output voltage ranges available: 2, 10, and
40 V to simulate high fault levels in certain relays
Allows the use of existing RTMS features
Customised test leads for specific relays
Scan this QR code

www.megger.com to know more about
MLLA Rogowski
MARKETING
GET CLOSER
TO YOUR CUSTOMERS
YOU HAVE A GREAT PRODUCT.
WE HAVE GREAT CONNECTIONS.
LET US BE THE LINK.
LET'S GROW YOUR BRAND

Photo: Mike van Schoonderwalt from Pexels
TOGETHER
CONTACT OUR TEAM
North America Rachel.Linke@apc.media
Global Marin.Dugandzic@apc.media
4 TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Index Contents
Table of
Table of Contents_04
Editors & Impressum_10

14
Digital Twins:
Editor’s Letter_12 Revolutionizing
Testing of
Digital Twins: Revolutionizing
Protection Relays
Testing of Protection Relays_14 The digital twin concept has
been taken a step further
Cancel Your Subscription to with the development of
a cloud-based digital twin
Electrical Safety Issues_22 of protection devices.
This article discusses
Electric Substation Large Power benefits of this technology
when applied in the relay
Equipment: Cost Effective Methods protection engineering and
testing world.
for Repairing Oil and Gas Leaks_30
TMC @ IEEE T&D Exhibition:
Network Transformers on Stage_38
Grid Innovations and Digital
Transformation_40
Transformer Technology April 2022 5
Issue 19
22
Cancel Your
Subscription to
Electrical Safety
Issues
Recent statistics show there
is a severe lack of safety in the
electrical world that results in
an incredible amount of injuries,
fatalities, and cost. The most
effective way to achieve success
in protecting electrical workers,
assets, and operations, is to follow
a Problem ⟶ Action ⟶ Solution
approach. This article brings an
overview of these steps.
38
TMC @ IEEE T&D Exhibition:
30 Network Transformers on Stage
Electric Substation Large Power

Equipment: Cost Effective Methods
for Repairing Oil and Gas Leaks
Many transformers still in service today were built in
the slide-rule era designed by engineers with a built-
40
to-last mentality. Although they were built to last, they Grid Innovations
have their share of old age issues coming to bear. One
of the greatest issues is oil leaks. This article presents and Digital
cost effective methods for repairing oil and gas leaks. Transformation
This article discusses four

grid technological innovations
that are changing the way
power substations work and
giving grid operators the
ability to better manage those
substations and the network
as a whole–paving the way
to meet changing energy
demands.
6 TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Index Contents
Table of
Power Cable Systems Reliability 54
and Longevity: Past, Present, and Power Cable Systems
the Future_54
Reliability and Longevity:
Past, Present, and the
Technical Advisors’ Column: Future
Control Transformers_64 Medium and high voltage cable systems are
one of the most commonly overlooked power
Women of Note: Efra Farah system assets and yet they are the arteries
enabling reliable grid operation. This article
Usmani_69 takes a step back to promote knowledge
sharing and industry best practices by reviewing
How Crucial is HVDC for Energy the past and the present, providing a vision for
reliability and longevity beyond 100 years of
Transition? Landscape of HVDC service life.
Technology in North America and
Europe_70
Transformer Connections: Types
and Their Impact on System
Performance_78
Coming in April_88
Issue 19
64
Technical Advisors’ Column:
Control Transformers
70
How Crucial is
HVDC for Energy
Transition?
Landscape of
HVDC Technology
in North America
and Europe
There are more than 350 installed
and upcoming HVDC projects
globally, with the largest number
of them being in APAC, followed by
Europe and North America. This
article focuses on two of these
regions: North America and Europe.
78
Transformer
Connections:
Types and Their
Impact on System
Performance
What is the impact of transformer
connections and the type of neutral
grounding on system performance?
Find out in this article.
8 ADVERTISING
EVERYONE
YOUR PRODUCT MATTERS TO
IS HERE
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VISIBILITY TO 100,000+
SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS
WE HAVE AN OUTSTANDING REACH
TO YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE.
WHAT IS YOUR REACH?

EXPAND IT. ADVERTIZE WITH TT.
CONTACT OUR TEAM
Photo: Shutterstock
North America Rachel.Linke@apc.media

Global Marin.Dugandzic@apc.media
Issue 19
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10 EDITORS &
IMPRESSUM
Impressum Editors
Chair of the Technical Advisory Board (TAB)

and Editor in Chief
Alan M. Ross, CRL, CMRP Chair of the Technical
Advisory Board (TAB)
Associate Chair of the Technical Advisory and Editor in Chief
Board (TAB) Alan M. Ross, CRL, CMRP
Corné Dames Transformer maintenance
Independent transformer consultant
and reliability
Technical Advisory Board Members
Diego Robalino, PhD, PMP
IEEE Senior Member Associate Chair of the
Tony McGrail Technical Advisory Board
Asset management & Condition monitoring (TAB)
Edward Casserly, PhD Corné Dames
Senior Scientist, Transformer oils
Independent transformer
Maria Lamorey
Industrial OEM manufacturing consultant
Alan Sbravati, ME, MBA Transformer oils
Transformer insulating materials
Marco Tozzi, PhD
Diagnostics and asset monitoring
Curtus Duff TAB Member
Power transformer design
Diego Robalino PhD, PMP
Traci Hopkins, IEEE Member
Transformer Condition Assessment
IEEE Senior Member
Jon Trout, PE Transformer condition
Electric utility assessment and
Michael Riccio, CRL, IRT CAT-1 diagnostics
Reliability, Electrical safety
Alexander Doutrelepont
High voltage bushings & insulators
Graphic design
BE Koncept Communication Boutique
TAB Member
Photo Cover Tony McGrail, PhD
Shutterstock Asset management &
Condition monitoring
Sales & Marketing
Rachel Linke
rachel.linke@apc.media
Kevan Sears
kevan.sears@apc.media
Sales & Marketing Americas TAB Member

Maria Salamanca Edward Casserly, PhD
maria.salamanca@transformer-technology.com
Senior Scientist,
Transformer oils
Sales & Marketing Mexico
Fernando Campos
fernando.campos@transformer-technology.com
Sales & Marketing Brazil

Marcelo Braga
marcelo.braga@transformer-technology.com
TAB Member
Marketing Global Maria Lamorey
Marin Dugandzic Industrial OEM
marin.dugandzic@apc.media manufacturing
Issue 19
TAB Member
Alan Sbravati, ME, MBA
Transformer insulating
materials
ISSN 2642-2689 (Print)

ISSN 2642-2697 (Online)
DIGITAL Membership
Free TAB Member
Marco Tozzi, PhD
Transformer Technology magazine is a quarterly Diagnostics and asset
magazine published by APC MEDIA LLC, 2152 monitoring
Caper Dr., Marietta, GA 30064, USA. Published
content does not represent official position of APC
MEDIA LLC. Responsibility for the content rests
upon the authors of the articles and advertisers,
and not on APC MEDIA LLC. APC MEDIA LLC
maintains the right to keep the textual and
graphical documents submitted for publication. TAB Member
Curtus Duff
Copyright and reprint permission Power transformer design
Abstracting is permitted with credit to the source.
Libraries are permitted to photocopy isolated
pages for private use of their patrons.
For other copying, reprint or republication
permission requests should be addressed to
info@transformer-technology.com TAB Member
Traci Hopkins
Publisher: Transformer Condition
APC MEDIA LLC Assessment
2152 Caper Dr.
Marietta, GA 30064, USA
transformer-technology.com
TAB Member
Jon Trout, PE
Electric utility
TAB Member
Michael Riccio, CRL, IRT CAT-1
Reliability, Electrical safety
TAB Member
Alexander Doutrelepont
High voltage bushings
& insulators
12 LETTER FROM
THE EDITOR
Dear Readers,
I am most thankful that in trying times like these, If I could go back to university and change my
we still manage to focus on our tasks at hand, the major, it would be to become a Systems Engineer
daily things that keep life on track. In the power rather than a mechanical one. Why? Because the
industry we must do that, or the lights don’t shine, system that an asset is in is much more important
the factories shut down and normal life as we than any one asset within that system, and as
know it comes to a halt. In the media industry, that assets become more complex, more solid state
means we need a continuous flow of great content than electromechanical, then looking at the whole
to share with each other in the Transformer is often the best way to understand the impact
Technology community. Once again, our authors, any one asset has on the overall results produced
interviewees and staff came through. by the system. In the case of electrical systems,
that result is safe, clean, cost effective and quality
It is especially gratifying because we stretched our power.
wings a bit this month, by adding content outside
the direct realm of transformers and we did it for Add to the fact that a resilient or reliable grid
a reason. In June and beyond, we will be adding requires that we consider every part of that grid
another aspect to our community, Power Systems to work together to accomplish the desired result.
Technology. While the heart of the system is the Speaking of reliability, the past few decades of
transformer, there is so much more to the power work in the power reliability world has taught me
system that we will begin to address. This issue that all reliability begins with design. The design
is merely the beginning. While we will always of the system and the assets that make up that
stay true to our roots, Transformer Technology, system. Unfortunately, we seldom get to design
we will also focus on those components of the brand new systems, hopefully something that is
system that are impacted by or have an impact on changing globally as economies look to rebuild
transformers. infrastructure. Usually, we must upgrade existing
systems by adding new technology and new assets
into an older existing system. That is why we bring
Power Systems Technology thinking and content
to our community. Given that transformers are
usually the oldest part of an existing system, the
addition of a lot of newer technology means we
must expect there to be an impact either on the
high side or low side of the transformer.
In June and beyond, we will
be adding another aspect to
our community, Power
Systems Technology.
Issue 19
Change can be challenging.

It usually is. But it can also
be exciting, as we believe
it is in our industry. Join us
as we begin to address how
Alan M Ross
technology can and will
impact these changes for
building new grids and
updating existing ones.
Also, the rapid increase in the use of monitoring

systems and advances in transformer component
design means we need to expand our thinking
when it comes to the heart of the system –
transformers.
Change can be challenging. It usually is. But it

can also be exciting, as we believe it is in our
industry. The rapid decline in the use of coal, at
least in Europe and North America, the reluctance
to build nuclear power generation, the need for
vastly more power to support the electrification
of transportation and the response to global
climate change are all going to impact the rate
of change within the power system. Join us as
we begin to address how technology can and will
impact these changes for building new grids and
updating existing ones.
Curator of the Community
Transformer Technology
Alan M Ross
Editor in Chief
President of EPRA
CRL, CMRP
14 DIGITAL TWIN
TECHNOLOGY
Digital Twins:
Revolutionizing Testing
of Protection Relays
by Niclas Wetterstrand
and Andrea Bonetti
Simulating an asset’s physical or functional

performance in a computer – a digital twin – has
delivered benefits in engineering for decades.
There are now companies who have developed and

are enabling this technology in the relay protection
engineering and testing world. Niclas Wetterstrand has in his whole carrier
been working with electrical test equipment
for the Power Sector. He started with Megger
This has allowed companies to continue carrying Sweden (formerly PROGRAMMA) in 1992 and
have been in various roles such as Production
out a range of tasks despite the travel bans and Management, Quality, Commercial Marketing,
Strategic Marketing, Product Management
social distancing measures that have arisen during and Sales. Niclas is currently a Business
the COVID-19 pandemic. Development Director (BDD) for protection at
Megger group and is responsible for the strate-
gic planning of Megger test equipment within
relay protection, circuit breaker, instrument
Beyond that, benefits like cost savings, work force transformer and primary testing. Niclas is a
Photo: Megger
utilization, comfortable working hours, and trained Cigré member and is a frequent speaker at
international conferences.
personnel, are being achieved.
Issue 19
A digital twin is a digital DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGY the virtual

copy of a physical
SIMULATES AN ASSET’S protection
asset. This concept has relay functions
been used for a long PHYSICAL OR FUNCTIONAL with so
time within the power
PERFORMANCE. called “virtual
industry, for instance, testing”.
when designing the physical layout This unlocks enormous potential to
of a substation. If the digital copy perform a lot of test activities virtually
is well made and the creation tool instead of relying on the traditional
enables the drawings to be generated way with physical assets.
automatically, the physical build of
the substation and its components Remote FAT
should fit perfectly together and
within the defined footprint, without Factory acceptance testing (FAT) is
rework. Simulation of power networks normally performed at the supplier’s
functionality is frequently used to or contractor’s site to ensure that
justify designs and calculate relay the selected components both
protection settings. Even functional are configured properly and work
simulation down to asset level together in the way that the system
happens today, but that is a generic was designed. This means that all
simulation of a function. The benefit equipment needs to be sent to the
is that the system is proven to work same location and installed and wired
in the digital world, and if the setup in temporarily, which is both costly and
the virtual world is well designed, it is time consuming. This is still viewed
highly likely to work in the real word. as a time saving and important
step since it proves that the system
Today, this concept has been works as designed. Plus, when
taken one step further with the problems arise, and they always do,
development of a cloud-based digital the project team can troubleshoot in
twin of protection devices. The relay a controlled environment and during
protection functions in the digital twin a less stressful project phase than
have been cloned from the physical that of the actual commissioning.
asset so the behaviour is identical. Furthermore, the technical experts are
User interfaces like the front panel either involved to support this activity
buttons and display are the same or at least physically nearby, so it is
and the configuration software is easier to get their support than when
used as one would do with a physical being out in the field.
relay. The environment also allows
a system of digital twin IEDs to be The digital twin environment creates
connected so a larger installation can notable advantages in the context
be set up virtually. of FAT. The process of setting up
This opens new possibilities since the system with digital twins, the
the relay setup can be tested in so-called “digital twin ecosystem”,
every degree; but to do that, a way requires a small effort but saves time
to simulate the electrical properties and a notable net cost over the use
of the power network of real assets.
Andrea Bonetti is Senior Specialist in power virtually is needed. THE CONCEPT OF THE These savings
system protection and IEC 61850 applicati- DIGITAL TWIN HAS BEEN are achieved
ons at MEGGER SWEDEN AB. Prior to that he A digital twin of a test because
worked as product manager and technical equipment is doing TAKEN A STEP FURTHER the need for
specialist for relay test equipment and IEC exactly that. Instead WITH THE DEVELOPMENT transportation
61850 test set and tools at Megger for 7 years, of generating voltages and temporary
and has 18 years of experience as HV power and currents as the OF A CLOUD-BASED DIGITAL wiring are
system protection specialist at HV relay pro- physical product would TWIN OF PROTECTION eliminated.
tection manufacturer ABB Grid Automation do, its digital twin is To create the
Products. Andrea is member of the IEC TC providing these signals DEVICES, OPENING UP digital twin
95/MT 4 and TC 95/WG 2 committees, and digitally. With this NEW POSSIBILITIES IN ecosystem,
he received the IEC 1906 Award in 2013. He test setup, when the simply select
holds a patent in the area of IEC 61850 test- digital twins of both the THE RELAY PROTECTION the required
ing tools and algorithms. Andrea obtained a protection relay and ENGINEERING AND TESTING assets in the
master of science degree in electrical engineer- test set interoperate, it digital twin
ing from Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. is possible to evaluate WORLD. system and
16 DIGITAL TWIN
TECHNOLOGY
digitally connect them with a few test system can be reused later when Yes, this is true, and this cannot be
clicks. Once it is set up, this system arriving at the site. This saves time skipped before the system is put in
can be accessed and worked upon in the time critical commissioning service. Then the question becomes:
by many engineers in parallel, which phase. This also How many
gives opportunities to reduce the gives the commission WHEN THE DIGITAL TWINS times do we
lead time. engineer confidence OF BOTH THE PROTECTION need to test
that the system has the hardware
In addition, these engineers can worked before so the RELAY AND TEST SET before it is
comfortably work from their desk troubleshooting of INTEROPERATE, IT IS placed into
during their normal work hours problems that arise service? It is
instead of travelling to the FAT site. in this stage can be POSSIBLE TO EVALUATE already done
If they need to be at a different focused on hardware THE VIRTUAL PROTECTION in the factory
location, engineers can access the and connection issues. when the
digital twin wherever they are in the Furthermore, the digital RELAY FUNCTIONS WITH asset passes
world, if they have access to internet. twin system should SO CALLED “VIRTUAL its final quality
Virtual FAT with digital twins has be saved for future assurance
been extremely valuable during the use in training, remote TESTING”. THIS UNLOCKS test; can we
pandemic where travel bans, and support, or when ENORMOUS POTENTIAL TO rely on that?
social distancing have been imposed. validating ensuing To fully benefit
upgrades. PERFORM A LOT OF TEST the virtual FAT,
Commissioning ACTIVITIES VIRTUALLY the answer
“But wait a minute”, say is yes. The
The benefits don’t end with the the professionals, “we INSTEAD OF RELYING ON hardware tests
validation of the protection system didn’t capture any tests THE TRADITIONAL WAY performed in
Photo: Megger
design. A subset of the tests that of the hardware and the the FAT are
were created in the digital twin for the physical connections?” WITH PHYSICAL ASSETS. then moved
Issue 19
Software tool for

the test set
RTMS
Test set digital twin Test set physical twin
Relay digital twin Relay physical twin
Software tool for

the relay
Validated relay files can be re-used in the substation
Validated test-set files can be re-used in the substation
t o the site and taken care of in the data (settings, configuration etc...): beforehand? Well, you guessed it,
commissioning phase. the setting file validated during the with the digital twin this is possible.
virtual tests can be transferred to the Personnel can get training not only
The key factor for physical twin, on the actual IEDs used in this project
a successful virtual THE DIGITAL TWIN minimising the but also on the system where the
commissioning, and TECHNOLOGY CAN PLAY risk of mistakes, IEDs are working together. Training
a subsequent site increasing after completion of the virtual FAT is
commissioning, is the AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN the quality of possible as the test equipment and
reusability of the data THE SUBSTATION LIFE the delivered the prepared test files used for this
between the digital protection FAT are available. This preparation
twins and the physical CYCLE IN THE EVENT system, and gives greater confidence that the
twins. Put differently, OF AN UPGRADE – FOR contributing commissioning will go according
the digital twin and its to great time to plan and minimises the risk of
physical twin must be THE CONFIRMATION OF savings. being caught off-guard by something
able to share the HOW THE REPLACED IEDS unexpected.
same data. Training
WILL OPERATE IN THE For junior engineers, this is even more
With this data sharing OLD ENVIRONMENT, FOR Wouldn’t it be valuable since experience can be built
approach, the test files wonderful if in a comfortable home environment
that were validated TESTING THE SUBSTATION there was a where mistakes aren’t hazardous
during the virtual tests, EXPANSION DESIGN, possibility to or costly, as they don’t involve live
where digital twins were get familiarised voltages and hardware that can be
used, can be reused by AND FOR HOW THE NEW with the damaged. Plus, expert guidance and
the physical twin test SECTION WILL WORK substation that’s support is nearby. As with the FAT,
set. The same is true going to be the training can also be performed
of the relay protection WITH THE OLD. commissioned in parallel, where all students have
18 DIGITAL TWIN
TECHNOLOGY
Are the
settings wrong?
Am I using the
correct test method?
Is the relay working well

THE ABILITIES OF
DIGITAL TWINS CAN
access to all parts of the system at put in service to start has already
the same time, and they all have their generating revenue. OFFER SIGNIFICANT been tested
own digital twin of the test equipment Therefore, there is HELP WITH RESEARCH virtually,
to work with. This is very different normally high pressure with the test
from how training with physical to deliver the project AND DEVELOPMENT, files already
assets is performed, wherein a group on time. Mistakes and CHALLENGING TEST TASKS created, and
typically has access to a limited problems get high the engineers
number of relays and test equipment. visibility and might WITH GREAT DISTANCES trained, is a
affect the delivery date, BETWEEN IEDS, OR great step
Remote support during and solving problems, forward.
commissioning under pressured time, is SITUATIONS WHERE A However, all
in many cases notably SUPER-TEST SET WOULD who have
Photo: Megger
Commissioning is normally the inefficient. To enter this been part of a

last phase before the substation is phase with a system that BE NEEDED. commission-
Issue 19
Should I
escalate the issue?
What if I do nothing?
… I wish to have one

second opinion…
ing job know that there are always Navigating these nagging concerns is see the problem for themselves, and
some uncertainties, which may all in a day’s work for commissioning propose a definitive working solution.
lead to problems that need to be engineers, and they do it very well. The actual setting files and testing
solved on the fly. Typical questions However, sometimes even these files from the field are read from the
from commissioning engineers, talented people get stuck, or at least physical devices and are sent to the
experiencing doubts, are: like to get a second opinion to ensure expert who loads the received data
their proposed solution is appropriate. into the digital twins and can start
• Is the relay performing correctly? This is where the digital twin again troubleshooting.
• Am I using the correct testing provides a huge benefit.
method? When the problem is found and
• Should I escalate this issue? A problem discovered during corrected, an updated settings file
• What happens if I do not escalate it? commis-sioning can easily be with corresponding updated tests
• Who can help me with a good replicated so that more experienced are returned to the commissioning
‘second opinion’? experts back in the factory both, can engineer. These files are now reused
20 DIGITAL TWIN
TECHNOLOGY
Software tool for

the test set
RTMS
Software tool for

the relay
Software tool for

the test set
RTMS
Software tool for

the relay
and tested in the field to make sure substation owner wants to make sure environment, for testing the substation
the problem is solved, even though that this upgrade will not affect the expansion design, and for how the new
the likelihood is high that the problem IED protection capabilities. By making section will work with the old.
is solved, since it has already been a few successful tests in the digital
confirmed with the digital twin. The twin environment, the substation Conclusion
digital twin technology enables the owner confirms that the firmware
technical expert to be present when upgrade will not cause an unexpected The digital twin technology exceeds
needed, without travel or disruption to interruption, or worse, insufficient what standard simulation tools can
normal working hours. The technology protection of the network assets. This perform today. To have an exact
also allows high level specialists to be will ease the minds of both the one functional digital copy of the IEDs
present on test activities that are too responsible from the supplier and the and the test equipment that also
demanding for average technicians. substation owner. can interact with each other has
This way the specialists can contribute proven to provide benefits in the
to decreased mistakes during on-site Major upgrades to an existing system, areas highlighted in this article –
commissioning testing. such as multiple IED replacements FAT, Training, Commissioning, and
or a substation expansion, are rather Upgrading – and it doesn’t stop
Firmware or hardware updates commonplace since many power grids there! The abilities of digital twins can
were built a long time ago, and have offer significant help with research
Finally, the digital twin technology capabilities that are reaching their and development, challenging test
can play an important role in the limits with today’s increased demands tasks with great distances between
substation life cycle in the event of an for electrical supply. These projects IEDs, or situations where a super-
upgrade. This may range from a small are like new installations, but the test set would be needed. The digital
firmware upgrade to something lager, new parts need to work with the old twin marks a new era of substation
such as an upgrade of several IEDs or installation, therefore the digital twin is verification and will drive increased
Photo: Megger
extending the substation capability. In beneficial for the confirmation of how quality and reduced costs for the
the example of a firmware upgrade, the the replaced IEDs will operate in the old delivered protection systems.
BODY
Transformer OF
Technology April 2022 21
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22 ELECTRICAL
SAFETY
Cancel Your
Subscription to
Electrical Safety
Issues
by Michael Riccio
The review of statistics blatantly

demonstrates there is a severe
lack of safety in the electrical world
that results in an incredible amount
of injuries, fatalities, and cost.
Problem solving is a skill we are all taught from a very

young age, and as we mature it becomes more and more
of a life requirement, not just as individuals, but as teams,
organizations and markets/industries. The electrical world,
like most other industries, should be focused first on avoiding
problems and then solving any if they arise. That comes down
to proper program design, where protection systems and
policies are put in place to prevent worker injuries/fatalities,
equipment/operational downtime, and lost revenue.
As noted in the previous article,

Tragedy & Expense: The High Cost
of Low Electrical Safety Standards,
the industry continually falls short of
enacting effective protection systems
and annually makes OSHA’s “Top Ten”
for these failures. As much effort
as the industry puts into developing
Michael Riccio, CRL, IRT CAT-1, is the Global and adhering to programs that meet
Marketing Manager for IRISS Group, providing governing bodies’ standards, the
market/industry analysis, support, and educa- numbers show failure in worker
tional insights to customers, distributors, and protection.
sales worldwide. He is a Certified Reliability
Leader, a CAT-1 IRT thermographer, and is a According to the Bureau of Labor
contributing writer to other industry publica- Statistics (BLS), electrocution is the
tions such as the National Safety Council’s fifth leading cause of workplace
Health & Safety Magazine, Food & Drink Proces- fatalities in the United States. Within
sing & Packaging, and Process Engineering the electrical industry where workers
Control & Manufacturing (UK). are exposed to this possible hazard
Issue 19
daily, this might seem like a basic electricians have been shocked or
fact. From a wider perspective, injured on the job. Arc flash fatalities
however, the number is surprisingly are not counted in this statistic;
high when we consider how few they are logged under burn injuries,
people in the overall American meaning that the rates are even
workforce perform “electrical-related higher. One of OSHA’s recent reports
work” as part of their standard job show that 80% of electrical-related
duties. accidents and fatalities involving
“Qualified Workers” are caused by
Another concern to take note of is Arc Flash or Arc Blast.
that electrical shock is the second
leading cause for lost time on the 2,000 workers are treated in
job in the electrical world. Every specialized burn trauma centers each
thirty minutes during the workday, year from arc flash injuries. These
as reported by the Electrical Safety high-tech facilities only treat the
Foundation International, a worker most devastated burn victims -- those
Photo: Shutterstock
suffers an electrical-induced injury who have sustained incurable third-

that requires time off the job. Their degree burns over more than half of
study further found that 97% of their body.
24 ELECTRICAL
SAFETY
According to the Bureau of Labor

Statistics (BLS), electrocution is
the fifth leading cause of workplace
fatalities in the United States.
To put the severity of burns into when compared to higher voltage

perspective, BLS reports that 60% of applications.
workplace fatalities are cause by burn
injuries. Arc flash injuries are much Incident energy calculations, and
higher than reported because workers therefore PPE selection, are based
receiving treatment for trauma and on equipment that is “properly
burns that do not require burn unit installed and properly maintained”.
attention (i.e., second-degree burns Most manufacturers recommend
or third-degree burns covering less exercising breakers at least once
than half their body) are admitted to per year to lubricate the inner working
standard hospitals which do not of the breaker mechanisms [1].
track the burn source.
The number one killer of IBEW

(International Brotherhood
of Electrical Workers) trained
electricians (admittedly the safest
trained electricians overall) is shock Recent reports show that 97% of
and/or falling when changing a 277
V lighting ballast. This is a common
electricians have been shocked or
task and often the fatality is recorded injured on the job.
as a fall death or a heart attack, and
not as an electrical incident. However,
doctors, OSHA and company officials
are becoming aware of the true cause The Keys to Driving Safety What are the Electrical Hazards?
of the fatality. A new part of the NEC The four primary hazards
prevents this type of incident from The most effective way to achieve associated with electricity are
occurring by requiring the addition success in protecting electrical shock, fire ignition, arc flash and
of a disconnect at every lighting workers, assets, and operations, is arc blast. Of course, when an
ballast on 277 V lighting. to follow a Problem ⟶ Action ⟶ electrical incident occurs, other
Solution approach. The above review hazards may come into play such
Equipment reliability, along with of statistics blatantly demonstrate as falls from elevated locations
protection systems, is key to creating that the Problem is a severe lack of and working within a confined
a safe and effective operation. Field safety in the electrical world that space. The results can be direct,
tests and surveys have shown that results in an incredible amount of such as electrocution, burn
22% of breakers operate at less than injuries, fatalities, and cost. The next injuries, or indirect such as a fall
100% efficiency (slow trip), and more step is to analyze the Actions that or smoke inhalation. Common
than 10% have been shown not to are causing these problems, or as conditions that may increase
open at all. Even the slightest delay in the electrical world refers to it, do hazards are elevated locations
the operation of a breaker or fuse, will a Root Cause Analysis to identify and confined spaces.
double or triple the available incident hazards. Once those issues have
energy in an arc flash event. been identified, the Solution is simply
to fix them by designing a system
More accidents occur with 480 V that both eliminates them presently
equipment than on higher voltage and prevents future occurrences.
equipment. Incident numbers with “Simply” is the key, because
480 V equipment is often higher than the solution will only work if the
Photo: Shutterstock
in higher voltage equipment due to program is designed with enough

the increased current and higher simplicity that it is teachable,
clearing time in these applications understandable, and repeatable.
Issue 19
26 ELECTRICAL
SAFETY
Asset Management and

Design Strategies
The four primary hazards associated The aim of any solution is to
with electricity are shock, fire ignition, provide the “maximum amount
of protection” by eliminating or
arc flash and arc blast. minimizing the exposure or hazard.
Elimination and Substitution
are the most important levels in
NFPA’s Hierarchy of Controls,
Worksite analysis Hazard Prevention and and how you prevent or control
Control a hazard. The main goal for any
Worksite analysis is key to identifying fix to a hazard or exposure is to
and understanding current risks. Once a hazard or potential hazard eliminate it altogether or substitute
Workers and Management should has been identified, the next step a product or method of doing
actively analyze the worksite to is to determine how to control or the work to a less hazardous
anticipate and prevent hazards from prevent that hazard. When feasible, alternative.
occurring. This involves identification prevent hazards by effective design
of all hazards by conducting baseline of job or job site. Where elimination A major part of asset design and
worksite surveys for safety and is not feasible, the action is to control procurement relies heavily on the
health and periodic comprehensive hazards and prevent unsafe and input from the Original Equipment
update surveys. Also included would unhealthful exposure. A proper risk Manufacturer (OEM), which
be an analysis of planned and new assessment should be done during significantly impacts the ultimate
facilities, processes, materials, and this stage, where risk is compared design, reliability, and success of
equipment; and another of routine to the effort required for removal. a project.
job hazards. Regular site safety It is reasonably practicable if a risk
and health inspections should be can be removed at minimal cost and Together, Be “Better”
conducted, so that new or previously effort, however it is not reasonably
missed hazards and failures in practicable if the cost of removal of Some may look around their
hazard controls are identified. risk is disproportionately high. facilities and think they have
electrical safety “best practices”
well in hand, but the term “best
practices” is a flawed concept
Principles of system design in high itself. “Best” denotes a superlative,
where the pinnacle has been
availability engineering to be aware of: reached and nothing can be
improved. Instead, a focus on
1. Elimination of single points of failure means “better practices” should be the
top-to-bottom standard. Much
adding redundancy to the system so that failure of like industry innovations for
production and distribution never
a component does not mean failure of the entire settle for status quo, safety
practices should also strive
system. towards perfection with the
understanding that it will never
2. Reliable crossover. In multi-threaded systems, be reached.
the crossover point itself tends to become a single This can be achieved through
an “all-hands, top-to-bottom”
point of failure. High availability engineering must approach to designing and
implementing an effective and
provide for reliable crossover. adaptable electrical safety and
reliability program. Some may
3. Detection of failures as they occur. If the first argue that too many cooks in
the kitchen will spoil the dish,
two principles are observed, then a user may never but without 100% commitment
from the entire team, no plan
see a failure. But the maintenance and reliability will work. The key is to a
shared understanding of who is
Photo: Shutterstock
activities must be designed to detect early signs responsible for what, and how
everyone’s role fits into the
of impending failure. bigger picture.
Issue 19
1. As much as 60% of failures & safety issues can
be prevented by making changes in design
2. 80% or more of a facility's life cycle cost is fixed
during the plan, design, and build phases
3. 30-40% of equipment breakdowns are related to
poor equipment design or condition

28 ELECTRICAL
SAFETY
Occupational Health & Safety organization and ability to get things training new hires or co-workers;
standards are a clear statement as done and requires that responsible assisting in accident investigations)
to the general responsibility of both parties have the necessary authority provides the means through which
employer and employee: and equipment, so that assigned workers develop and express their
responsibilities can be met. own commitment to safety and health
General duties on the employer protection. Making use of everyone’s
• provide safe place of work Encouraging employee involvement insight not only creates a synergy
• provide safe plant and equipment in the program and in decisions that among participants, but also a shared
• provide safe systems of work affect their safety and health (e.g., sense of ownership that leads to
inspection or hazard analysis teams; participants holding themselves and
General duties on the employees developing or revising safe work rules; each other accountable.
• to take reasonable care
• to co-operate with the employer
• not to interfere with safety
arrangements
Management commitment and

Management commitment and
employee involvement go together. employee involvement go together.
Top management involvement should
be visible, with the authority and Encouraging employee involvement in
resources to implement program.
Their involvement in implementing
the program and in decisions that affect
the program is crucial so that all their safety and health provides the
employees understand it is a serious
commitment. This commitment means through which workers develop
provides the motivating force
and resources for organizing and
and express their own commitment to
controlling activities within an safety and health protection.
References
[1] NFPA 70E, Standard for
Electrical Safety in the
Workplace, accessed here:
https://www.nfpa.org/codes-
and-standards/all-codes-and-
standards/list-of-codes-and-
standards/detail?code=70E
Photo: Shutterstock
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30 REPAIRING
OIL LEAKS
Electric Substation
Large Power Equipment:
Cost Effective Methods
for Repairing Oil and
Gas Leaks
by Steven H. Wickman
To keep in tune with the theme of the last edition of Transformer Technology, a large, oil-filled
power transformer is definitely the heart of the power system. Even with the advances in the
technology of other insulating media, the large oil-filled transformer is still the tried-and-true
major component of the transmission-type electric substation, as well as the sub-transmis-
sion and distribution substations. Many transformers still in service today were built in the
slide-rule era designed by engineers with a built-to-last mentality. Thus, there are many old-
er oil-filled transformers still out there throughout the world. Although they were built to last,
they have their share of old age issues coming to bear. One of the greatest issues is oil leaks.
Gaskets on bushings, radiator flanges, pumps, piping, etc. are deteriorating and leaking.
Issue 19
Many transformers still in

service today were built in
the slide-rule era designed
by engineers with a built-
to-last mentality. Although
they were built to last, they
have their share of old age
issues coming to bear, one
of the greatest issues
being oil leaks.
Figure 1. Evidence of oil running down the sides of a large power transformer creates a negative
perception of the utility’s maintenance program.
According to literature, it is not The classic repair technique is to

uncommon for a transformer regasket the transformer, which
operating at higher temperatures entails taking the transformer out of
Steven H. Wickman, PE is a Technical Consul- to develop leaks from gasket failure service and draining the oil – usually
tant for TDS – Transmission & Distribution after about 10 to 12 years in service. thousands of gallons, removing ra-
Photo: Transmission and Distribution Services – TDS, LLC
Services. After a 37-year career with Common- However, transformers are typically diators, removing bushings, and so on.
wealth Edison, Co., Chicago, IL in various expected to remain in service much
electrical engineering positions primarily in the longer than this. Thus, sometime All these steps keeping your
substation, testing, engineering, construction during the operating life of the transformer out of service for weeks,
and operations areas of the company, Steve transformer, the unit is going to and utilizing large substation crews,
is now providing his expertise to TDS as a experience deteriorated gaskets and cranes, tankers, vacuum fill-oil
Technical Consultant. Steve is a Registered subsequent oil leaks. If oil is leaking processing trailers and similar can
Professional Engineer in the State of Illinois, out, there is a risk of moisture and air be a costly endeavor. Today’s electric
and he holds a BSEE from Iowa State University, being drawn in via capillary action, utility management is monitoring
Ames, IA and an MBA from the Keller Graduate compromising the transformer oil expenses closely. Transmission
School of Management, Chicago, IL. insulating qualities. operations are wheeling power from
32 REPAIRING
OIL LEAKS
far-away generation sources to the Consistency the energized components, can be

local utility distribution load centers. performed with the transformer still in
Outages on transmission equipment Drill and Inject Technique service carrying load (Figure 3).
are closely scheduled and lengthy
outages are not granted on short There are two techniques prevalent
notice for emergent repairs. The amongst the leak-sealing specialists.
Online leak seal
Operations people are coming to the The first of these is a Drill and Inject techniques for replacing
Maintenance people asking for other technique whereby the leak seal
solutions to address these oil leak technicians are able to drill access
failed and leaking
repairs. The U.S. EPA Spill Prevention, holes to the gasket groove and gaskets offer a viable
Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) inject, under pressure, a sealant
Regulations (40CFR112) contains compound, essentially creating a
alternative solution to
stringent requirements for electric new gasket without disassembly of regasketing, as they
utilities to monitor their equipment the transformer to access the gasket
to prevent oil discharges off their groove (Figure 2).
don’t require taking
substation properties. Even slight the transformer out of
oil leaks, creating stains down the Then pipe plugs are inserted to
sides of transformers and oil circuit contain the sealant under pressure
service and draining
breakers, create a negative perception while it cures. The sealant is injected the oil.
to the general public that the utility is in a fluid, liquid state that has a
not maintaining their equipment to a consistency similar to honey or
high standard of reliability (Figure 1). pancake syrup, to use an easily
understood analogy.
There is a viable alternative solution
to the oil leak correction problems on The sealant cures into a flexible
electric utility equipment. A technique material that has durometric
for replacing failed and leaking properties essentially identical to
gaskets in transformers is available those of OEM nitrile rubber gaskets.
through online leak seal technique. The life cycle of the leak seal installed
gasket material is essentially the
same as OEM gaskets. Thus, with the
It is not uncommon for leak seal repair technique you get the
a transformer operating same result as regasketing without
all the extra time, labor, and expense
at higher temperatures of a drain and regasket repair.
to develop leaks from Additionally, many Drill and Inject
repairs, particularly if the leaks being
gasket failure after about addressed are on piping flanges at
10 to 12 years in service. the lower end of radiators, away from
Figure 2. Drill and Inject technique. Left: A graphical sketch depicting how the injection valve is drilled into the gasket groove to inject the liquid
sealant material and effectively replace the failed gasket material. Right: Injection valve with sealant injection hose.
Issue 19
Lastly, with this minimally invasive same leak seal sealant to create, in
repair technique, it can be a viable essence, an external gasket around
option to only address the existing the leaking component. This leak
leaking components as opposed to repair technique works effectively on
doing a complete drain and regasket virtually any flange that cannot be
of the entire unit. drilled and injected (Figure 4).
Some flanges on oil-filled apparatus

cannot be repaired by the Drill
and Inject technique. Open-faced
flanges, where there is not a recessed
gasket groove, require an alternative
repair technique, which is to apply a
custom fabricated aluminum clamp
externally around the leaking flange.
This clamp, measured and fabricated
to the precise dimensions of the
flange, is put in place and has an
internal groove that is filled with the
Figure 4. Top left: Open face flange and

butterfly valve. This configuration will not
support the Drill and Inject technique.
Top: A three-part clamp butterfly valve.
Bottom: A three-part clamp butterfly valve
installed.
In addition to open-faced flanges, this

technique has been used on flanges
on pumps, fault pressure relays,
access hatches, bushing flanges and
bushing turrets (Figure 5).
Again, no draining of oil, disassembly

of components or outage are
needed, unless it is required for safe
work clearance for the technicians

performing the work. Outages, if
needed, will only be for the duration
of the work, and for some cure time.
Typically, the apparatus is returned to
service the next day after the repair is
performed.
If the leaking component is in close

proximity to the energized conductors
and the application of an aluminum
clamp may compromise electrical
Figure 3. Drill and Inject technique: clearances, an external clamp can be
Online leak seal precision fabricated of PVC material
34 REPAIRING
OIL LEAKS
with an internal cavity filled with the

leak seal material. This repair has
been commonly performed on CT
lead through bushings into trans-
former main tanks as well as around
low voltage bushings [480 V and
below] on distribution transformers
with limited clearance between
the phases.
Again, no draining of oil, disassembly

of components or outage are
needed, unless it is required for safe
work clearance for the technicians
performing the work. Outages, if
needed, will only be for the duration
of the work, and for some cure time.
Typically, the apparatus is returned
to service the next day after the repair
is performed.
If the leaking component is in close

proximity to the energized conductors
and the application of an aluminum
clamp may compromise electrical
clearances, an external clamp can be
precision fabricated of PVC material
with an internal cavity filled with
the leak seal material. This repair
has been commonly performed
on CT lead through bushings into
transformer main tanks as well
as around low voltage bushings
[480 V and below] on distribution
transformers with limited clearance
Figure 5. Top left: Clamp installed on transformer oil pump.
between the phases. Top right: Clamp installed around a top-mounted sudden pressure relay leaking oil at its
mounting flange. Bottom left: Clamp being installed on the flange of a transformer access hatch.
Other Unique Repairs Bottom right: Transformer bushing turret clamp.
In addition to the common piping a clamp filled with sealant to nitrile rubber gasket material. The
flange leaks and those that have been enclose on this interface surface. cured compound material does not
mentioned above, there are other adhere to the internal surfaces of
unique repairs that can be performed This technique is also the most a gasket groove, nor to the internal
with this leak seal technique: common solution for addressing cavity of an external clamp. Thus, if
leaks in SF6 filled CB bushings. the leak seal repaired flange requires
• Radiator fin leaks — application of disassembly for other repairs of
an external clamp Properties of the Leak Seal the apparatus, the cured leak seal
• NLTC operating rod penetration; Compound compound can be easily peeled away
failure of the packing/bushing with a simple tool, even a pocket
around this rod — external clamp For all leak seal repairs performed knife (Figure 6).
• Large open-faced flanges on electrical substation apparatus,
between sections of transformer only one type of leak seal compound If it is necessary, sometime after the
tanks, such as the flange between is used, regardless if the device is a repair is completed, to disassemble
the main tank and an LTC transformer, oil circuit breaker (OCB) the component, upon reassembly of
compartment or gas circuit breaker (GCB). The the flange either a new OEM gasket
• Interface in bushings between leak seal material will not adversely can be put in place of the removed
porcelain and steel flange — often react with transformer oil, nitrogen leak seal compound, or, in the case
there is a gasket in a bushing gas used in a transformer blanket, of a repair with an external clamp,
between the porcelain insulating nor OCB oil or SF6 gas. When fully the leak seal technicians can be
column and the bushing base. cured, the leak seal compound is called back to reinject the clamp with
This gasket can fail and leak always soft and flexible, and it feels new leak seal compound, restoring
oil. The solution is to fabricate and behaves the same as OEM the leak to its repaired state.
Issue 19
A skilled high-pressure Thus, a firm that Oil Circuit Breakers

leak seal technician is specializes in the Oil Circuit Breakers (OCBs) have
not necessarily best low-pressure electric flanges, bushings and valves that are
very similar to those found on large
skilled for the low- equipment repair power transformers, thus, the same
pressure technique and technique is most likely repair techniques can be applied to
them. The most common repair is
is potentially not going to perform a successful to address failed gaskets in HV OCB
to do the best repair. leak seal repair. bushings at the interface between the
porcelain and steel flange at the base
of these bushings.
This leak is so common that the leak

seal firms have made aluminum
castings of this specific clamp that is
fine-tuned by machining to tailor it to
the specific bushing. This cast clamp
is more economical to fabricate in
multiple quantities than machining
a unique clamp from a block of
aluminum for each application.
SF6 Gas Circuit Breakers
Gas Circuit Breakers (GCBs) have

multiple flanges on bushings and other
components that are ideal candidates
Figure 6. Left: Portion of clamp removed
for leak seal repairs via the external
showing cured sealant. Top: Same repair, clamp repair technique (Figure 7).
sealant cut away showing its flexibility.
Figure 7. Left: Clamp on an EHV GCB bushing base. Right: Clamp enclosing on the end bell flange of an EHV GCB interrupter tank.
36 REPAIRING
OIL LEAKS
Additionally, leaks in instrument/ generation plants, refineries, and Future of Online Leak Sealing
metering tubing, where threaded other chemical processing plants.
fittings are used, can be repaired with In 1988 one of the established high Large power transformers and EHV
external clamps. As in the case with pressure leak-sealing specialists was circuit breakers are going to continue
transformers, to perform complete approached by a U.S. electric utility’s to be the heart of the electric utility
regasket overhauls on large EHV senior equipment specialist in their grid. As sources of generation
GCBs, an extended outage with Substation Services Group and asked evolve perhaps away from large
degassing of the GCB and opening up if it was possible to apply the high- central power plants to more widely
all components is required, as well as pressure leak seal techniques to distributed wind and solar farms, the
the testing and adjusting of the GCB repairing transformer oil leaks. The need for a reliable transmission grid
mechanism upon completion of the utility equipment engineer worked will be as important as ever. Plus,
leak repairs, all of which is time and with the leak seal specialist to develop the ability to get extended outages
labor intensive, and costly. the low-pressure leak seal technique for major overhaul of the apparatus
and the Substation Leak Seal will be ever challenged. The ability
With these leak seal techniques, no Services, as we know it today, was to address maintenance issues
disassembly or full gas removal is born. This low-pressure technique such as oil and SF6 leaks in a quick
necessary. Outages are necessary was further developed and performed and short outage manner will be of
only for the duration of the work and by several leak-sealing contractors major benefit. This author predicts
post repair leak testing the next day to around the country. Today, there are that this repair technique will be a
assure all leaks have been corrected. only a few leak-sealing contractors popular option. In addition, the leak-
still performing this repair technique sealing specialists are embracing
in the North American continent, and new technologies such as modeling
Today, there are only only one firm that specializes in only clamp design on 3D printers to test-
a few leak-sealing low-pressure leak-sealing technique fit a new clamp prior to fabrication in
exclusively on electric substation aluminum to assure proper fit. Also,
contractors still equipment. A skilled high-pressure these technicians are exploring the
performing the low- leak seal technician is not necessarily use of portable scanning devices to
best skilled for this low-pressure measure leaking flanges and fittings
pressure repair technique technique and is potentially not going from a safe distance for clamps,
in the North American to do the best repair. Thus, a firm without getting an electrical outage
that specializes in the low-pressure for the measurement phase of the
continent, and only one electric equipment repair technique repair. These new technologies will be
firm that specializes is most likely to perform a successful beneficial in adding to the success of
leak seal repair. this leak repair technique.
in only low-pressure
leak-sealing technique The ability to address Photo credit:
exclusively on electric maintenance issues such

All photos are property of
Transmission and Distribution
substation equipment. as oil and SF6 leaks in a Services – TDS, LLC and
should not require permission
History of Online Leak Seal quick and short outage for publication from any other
Repairs manner will always be entity or firm.
This repair technique is something a major benefit, so the

that was derived from the traditional online leak sealing repair
high pressure leak sealing that has
been performed for many years
technique will most likely
on high pressure piping in power be a popular option.
Issue 19
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38 ADVERTORIAL
TMC @ NETWORK
IEEE T&D TRANSFORMERS
EXHIBITION ON STAGE
TMC Transformers is a wide-reaching company, with a long experience

in the design and manufacture of medium and low voltage dry type
transformers and reactors, both using cast resin and VPI technology.
All the products are ideal for distribution and special applications:
Photo: TMC
two different technologies combined under a single roof, to offer to

customers the most suitable technology and service.
Issue 19
TMC is manufacturing dry type transformers and reactors for all applications
worldwide, such as industry, building and infrastructures, traction substations,
marine and offshore, oil and gas, renewable energy, battery storage, mining and
data centers.
TMC has a large customer base, which led to the development of all types
of customized solutions in the world of dry transformers. This experience has
made possible the development of creative projects adapted to the needs of the
clients, both in transformers for indoor and outdoor installation, that are able
to reach temperatures of -50°C in operation, as well as incorporating different
cooling systems (natural air, forced with exchangers, air-water or air-air).
TMC invests heavily in research and development. Dry transformers continue

to evolve: new materials, resins, types of insulation, cooling systems. In
fact, a team of technical experts, electrical and mechanical engineers make
new developments and solutions possible for our customers. Tools and
methodologies such as finite elements ensure the highest quality product,
capable of withstanding short-circuit mechanical stresses and maintaining
operational reliability.
The IEEE T&D Exhibition in New Orleans – April 25-28, 2022 – represents an
opportunity for energy professionals to reconnect and explore a range of ideas
driving change in the industry and TMC will promote solutions and equipment in
the electrical transmission and distribution industry.
TMC focuses its participation in this fair on Dry Type Submersible Network
Transformers suitable for application in underground vaults on sidewalks in
densely populated cities.
In case of heavy rain, these vaults can be flooded and for this reason the trans-
former is located inside a completely sealed tank. Dry type submersible network
transformers do not contain oil, avoiding risks of fire propagation in the cities;
they are made of entirely welded tank and supplied with external tap changer that
facilitates the voltage regulation according to the network. The footprint is similar
to liquid-filled units so they are easily interchangeable.
Network transformers are the ideal solution for supplying and distributing
energy within infrastructure projects aiming at high efficiency and fire safety.
The insulation system is flame retardant and self-extinguishing, making them a
safe and reliable choice over combustible fluid-filled transformers.
At the Exhibition, TMC plans to promote the network transformer developed
by the company's R&D team, interact with customers, share experiences and
advise customers on TMC’s full range of solutions and proposals in dry trans-
formers.
Visit us at IEEE T&D Exhibition in New Orleans, April 25-28th

Booth No. 8841
40 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Grid Innovations and

Digital Transformation
by Mital Kanabar
John McDonald
and Palak Parikh
Photo: Shutterstock
Issue 19
Grid innovations and digital

transformation of power substations
are accelerating the energy transition
for global utilities.
Dr. Mital Kanabar is an Office of Innovation John McDonald, P.E. is Smart Grid Business
leader and global Applications Architect in Development Leader for GE’s Grid Solutions
Grid Automation (GA) of Grid Solutions busi- business. John has 47 years of experience
ness, GE Renewable Energy at GE Grid IQ in the electric utility T&D industry. John
Center in Ontario, Canada. Mital has 15+ received his B.S.E.E. and M.S.E.E. (Power
years of power industry experience and holds Engineering) degrees from Purdue University,
12+ international patent applications. He has and an M.B.A. (Finance) degree from the
published more than 50 journal/conference University of California-Berkeley. John is a
papers, 5 industrial magazine articles, and a Life Fellow of IEEE (member for 50 years),
book chapter. He holds an honorary Adjunct and has received a number of distinguished
Professor position at OntarioTech University, IEEE and IEEE PES medals and awards.
Canada. Mital is also serving as a Chair and John is Past President of the IEEE PES,
Vice-Chair of three Working Groups (WGs) at the VP for Technical Activities for the US
IEEE PES Power System Relaying Committee National Committee (USNC) of CIGRE, the
(PSRC). And, he is an active member of sev- Past Chair of the IEEE PES Substations
eral technical working groups at IEEE, IEC, Committee, the IEEE Division VII Past
NERC and NASPI. Mital earned his PhD de- Director, and a member of the US National
gree from the University of Western Ontario, Academy of Engineering.
London, Canada.
The energy
transition is at
hand, but its
success relies
on our ability
Palak Parikh, PhD PEng is a Lead Application
to adapt our Engineer with GE’s Grid Automations’ Product
aging power R&D group, focusing on various product de-
signs in the area of Distribution Automation
infrastructure & Protection. She received her Master’s and
to support the Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering
from Sardar Patel University, India. She pur-
integration of sued her PhD from the University of Western
more renewable Ontario, Canada. Palak has expertise in the ar-
ea of distribution automation, microgrid solu-
energy tions, and power system protection. She has
resources. authored more than 30 international journal
and conference articles and holds 1 patent.
42 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Key Challenges and system evolutions. Next, we look at industries. With the integration of
Opportunities with Grid grid system integrity and protection large renewable energy farms on the
Modernization schemes for high-speed grid stability transmission grid, and distributed
controls. Finally, we discover how energy resources on distribution
The energy transition is at hand, secured wireless technologies, such networks, several challenges and
but its success relies on our as licensed/unlicensed radios or opportunities have presented
ability to adapt our aging power private LTE (long-term evolution) themselves during the modernizing of
infrastructure to support the networks, are bringing industrial- decades-old grid infrastructures.
integration of more renewable grade reliability and security with
energy resources. Innovation and the integration of distributed energy Digital transformation with grid
the digital transformation of the grid resources (DERs). modernization technology for the
substation are crucial to evolving our transmission and distribution system
technology rapidly enough to meet Grid Infrastructure - Major will play the central role between
the world’s rising demands of green Challenges and Opportunities renewable generation and prosumers
energy. In this article, we discuss of energy. The four key aspects shown
four grid technological innovations The electrical grid has been largely in Figure 1 illustrate grid modernization
that are changing the way power evolving for over 100+ years. So, why through innovation and digital
substations work and giving grid now? In speaking with many global transformation, including:
operators the ability to better manage utilities and heavy power users, three
those substations and the network clear factors have emerged as being • Improving grid performance
as a whole–paving the way to meet driving forces: the need and push for and utilization of the existing
changing energy demands. decarbonization, the decentralization infrastructure with innovations
caused by the growth of renewables in grid asset (e.g., transformers,
First, we examine the use of data and DERs, and digitization–our feeders) monitoring;
in the move from time-based to ability to connect more assets and • Enhancing grid reliability and
condition-based maintenance and visualize more data than ever before. flexibility with digital substations and
performance of primary substation Digital transformation enabled by software-defined automation and
equipment, such as power grid modernization technology in the controls;
transformers. We also explore grid transmission and distribution system • Maintaining grid stability and
sensing with analytics to improve will play a central role in the energy resiliency on large integrations of
network utilization. We then consider transition. inverter-based renewable energy
the new flexible architectures of resources using system integrity
the digital substation, and how they Power grid infrastructure has been built protection schemes; and
create a more scalable, grid-reliable and maintained over the past century • Enabling cyber security with
control and automation platform to deliver reliable, safer, and affordable end-to-end communication for
that is ideal for tomorrow’s power electricity across communities and geographically dispersed DERs.
Figure 1. Grid challenges and opportunities
Photo: GE
Issue 19
Figure 2. Evolution of grid analytics steps applying to monitoring and controls
Evolving Grid Analytics models with a combination of physics There are several methods of condition
Innovations and machine learning methods, monitoring, generally categorized as
including anomaly detection, the following:
Power grid networks and equipment classifications, and/or learned
infrastructure are monitored and patterns. Further grid innovations • Automatic and online: Continuous
controlled by edge devices with can be applied to suggest potential monitoring applied while the asset is
sensors and actuators with some level implications and recommended running; analysis performed without
of intelligent analytics. As illustrated actions. Finally, the autonomous grid human intervention
in Figure 2, the evolution of grid edge with self-healing would use edge- • Automatic and offline: Scheduled
analytics innovations moves from a to-edge communications with very monitoring applied when the asset
reactive management strategy that limited or no human interventions. is stopped; analysis performed
responds to failures after they occur to without human intervention.
a more autonomous future state with Grid Innovations for Online • Manual and online: Continuous
self-healing. Asset Condition Monitoring monitoring applied while the asset
is running; analysis performed
The majority of existing grid edge The aging of the existing installed base manually on collected data.
analytics are reactive to failures to limit and the lack of sufficient upgrades of • Manual and offline: Scheduled
damage, with limited responsiveness the grid infrastructure are challenging monitoring applied when the asset
to restore automatically. The predictive for grid reliability, resiliency, and is stopped; analysis performed
stage may utilize system or asset affordability. manually on collected data.
Table 1. Grid asset management challenges and solution strategies
CHALLENGES SOLUTION STRATEGIES

Aging grid infrastructure - assets reaching the end of life in an Extension of life for aging assets and prioritization based on asset
environment of increased capital expenditure (CAPEX) constraints risk index/score. Defer cost of replacement using continuous asset
monitoring and diagnosis.
Operational expenditure (OPEX) constraints leave overwhelmed Optimize maintenance schedules and shift from schedule-based to
resources and difficult preventive maintenance programs condition-based or preventive maintenance
Accidental and hazardous incidences, risk of personnel safety at Mitigation techniques to prevent hazardous incidences, establish
workplace, human errors safety processes, and train workforce
Unplanned outages and unexpected failures of system devices Prevent unexpected failures and save the cost of unplanned outage
or production loss with real-time integrated condition monitoring and
controls
Expertise reducing due to retiring workforce Digitalization of analysis and automation tools that can provide
actionable intelligence
44 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Normally, the online methods require Figure 3 presents integrated condition With deep equipment design expertise,
additional devices connected to the monitoring of the transformer using proactive functions are designed
sensors applied to the equipment protection relay and dissolved to continuously perform online
whereas the offline methods require gas analyzer data. Traditionally, equipment condition monitoring
scheduled shutdown to perform the a transformer protection relay is in combination with protection
tests. Autonomous monitoring and connected to current and voltage and control measurements of the
diagnostics need enough processing transformers to obtain the currents equipment to be protected. Proactive
capabilities and memory within and voltages needed to detect functions take a holistic approach
an edge device whereas manual electrical faults. It is interfaced with to the equipment to be protected,
monitoring and diagnostics require circuit breakers for control actions. capturing the entire evolution of a
time from an expert team to perform In addition, dissolved gas analyzer potential failure, including:
analysis and prepare asset health devices connected to a transformer
reports. can draw oil samples regularly • detecting an anomaly or
and perform continuous chemical degradation of a subcomponent of
Power Transformer Example analysis. the asset,
• alarming the condition, and
An example of power transformer In the past, these two distinct • recording and logging the signals
equipment monitoring and systems (electrical protection and and evolving changes.
diagnostics is presented below which chemical monitoring) have not been
can provide risk index and score interconnected. Since both systems Proactive functions are essential
with actionable condition-based provide much-needed asset and to detect critical asset degradation
maintenance through a combination performance management data, or anomaly conditions before they
of electrical, chemical, and thermal bringing them together provides a evolve into catastrophic failures. This
data. Power transformers are among more comprehensive view of the avoidance of costs, damage, and
the most critical power substation transformer’s overall health as reliability costs justifies the investment
assets required to maintain a reliable shown in the figure. This integrated in this digital transformation.
and efficient power supply. Yet approach of combining two systems
more than half the transformers (a protection relay with electrical Data correlation models are time-
in the developed world are several functions and a dissolved gas analyzer aligned and trended among electrical,
decades old or older. With almost with chemical analysis) allows chemical, and thermal characteristics
half of transformer failures caused by tracking of trending incipient fault through a range of transformer
insulation degradation and electrical events with the same timestamps, a conditions. Reports from the system
abnormalities due to aging, extending correlation between the electrical and (including the energization record,
the life of these devices has become chemical models, and integrated asset integrated transformer fault report,
a top priority for major power utilities. health analysis and reporting. and transformer health report)
Figure 3. Holistic electrical, chemical and thermal models for transformer monitoring and diagnostics
Photo: GE
Issue 19
Figure 4. Fleet-view of grid asset risk indices
allow capturing key operational expenditures while maintaining the limit but can prevent catastrophic
dynamics that provide insight about power system reliability demanded by events. Digital protection relays
both internal and through-fault today’s market. are checking for anomalies around
conditions. Critical transformer data every 2ms. Instead of witnessing
is compiled into reports and models With advancements in data analytics, the evolution of equipment failure
that are easy to interpret, supporting interoperable data communication, until the set threshold of traditional
informed decision-making. This and high-speed networking, the protection function is reached,
ultimately delivers conditions for availability of data for advanced proactive functions can provide early
asset management optimization analytics is ushering in a new era of warning upon detection of abnormal
and potential for a transformer predictive analytics. New predictive operating conditions. These can be
life extension, enabling operators analytics can be applied to build key inputs to managing assets using
to reduce capital and operational proactive functions which do not just digital data.
Figure 5. An example of holistic transformer health models

46 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Figure 5 presents an example of a • Risk assessment of the overhead line monitoring devices.
transformer model from its health transformer population in service, The integration of monitoring data
report. When a protective relay especially critical transformers and received from line monitoring devices
detects an internal fault, it trips the important connections; with distribution management
transformer. External or through faults, • Condition assessment of individual system helps improve the reliability
however, can result in high current transformers, identifying those and safety of the system, and thus
flow through the transformer before which may require follow-up such optimizes the use of the network.
the device is tripped offline, causing as visual inspection, diagnostic Typically, line monitoring devices are
significant stress on the transformer. measurements, and maintenance; mounted at strategic points in the
A typical distribution utility experiences and overhead network. The system is
about 15 to 20 through faults each • Proactive risk mitigation actions for shown in Figure 6.
year even in advanced distribution transformer asset management.
systems. Research demonstrates These line sensors measure current
that many transformers that fail An Example of Grid Utilization and calculate both amplitude and
catastrophically start showing and Fault Location phase of the root-mean-square value,
indications of problems immediately and have built-in communications.
following a through fault event. The integration of renewable The sensors can pick up fault
Developing situations such as these generation into existing grids currents and report this current
are more easily detected with visibility is increasing. One of the main data back via radio to the sensor
into pre- and post-fault electrical, challenges is that power flows are network gateway (SNG). The SNG
chemical, and thermal data. In the uneven and decentralized, and line links a network of sensors together,
transformer relay, this data is delivered loading at specific points in the sending commands to the sensors
via the user-friendly integrated network becomes uncertain with the and receiving data. This data consists
transformer fault report. This graphical change in the feed. This challenge of current values, fault event current
fault report can provide a clear visual is reduced with real-time or near- data, or other related information,
indication of the fault condition as well time grid visibility. Using dynamic line such as temperature, etc. The SNG
as any changes to the transformer’s rating data monitored by sensors, the links back to the data acquisition
health. power handling capacity of the line communicator unit. The unit is
at specific points can be determined. generally mounted in the substation,
This integrated solution provides a This allows the utility to provide and its function is to record the
heightened level of visibility, allowing improved power quality and a better- activity of the sensor network. It acts
the data to be applied in a meaningful managed system with increased as a database for line status including
way to maintenance or troubleshooting visibility into the network. With a events like line loading, tripping faults,
needs. An asset health report gives regulatory requirement to minimize or sub-tripping events. The data
a snapshot of the transformer’s outage times, it is important to detect acquisition communicator also links
condition, and helps utilities analyze and locate faults and disturbances the sensor network to the system
the following: across the distribution grid using software controls.
Figure 6. Line monitoring interface system
Photo: GE
Issue 19
Figure 7. Digital substation architecture
The system software controls the As substation devices continue to First, it allows for a smaller control
entire network at one central location evolve, and we continue to capture house footprint which saves money
and can include a virtual line sensing and visualize more ‘real-time’ data in construction. It also allows for
gateway that provides access to faults about individual substation assets, significantly less wiring between
and line loading data centrally. It also the next level of value for grid edge devices which lowers cost and
provides a platform for line monitoring peer-to-peer device analytics may be reduces the opportunity for miswiring.
analytical applications such as: moving from predictive to autonomous It also allows for significant data to be
operation. We are starting to see this available for utilities to use to monitor
• fault location and fault signature, evolution now as machine learning and systems and leverage in their asset
• dynamic line rating, artificial intelligence capabilities are management programs. The SF6-free
• local sag/clearance estimation, and being implemented into field and edge technology innovations such as green
• remote system diagnostics and devices. For example, protection relays gas (g3) enabled switchgear already
maintenance applications including can trend operational data and use provide clean primary equipment for
remote SNG and line sensor built-in artificial intelligence/machine the grid.
firmware updates. learning algorithms supervised by logic
and controls to take prescribed and Figure 7 shows the hierarchical
This software can be stand-alone approved actions–thereby minimizing architecture of a digital substation
or be integrated into a distribution the need for truck rolls or manual PAC system divided into three
management system with mapping human intervention. existing levels: process, bay, and
and maintenance functionality. station. Considering the technology
Evolving Digital cycles discussed earlier, the process
Line sensors can be installed at Transformation Across Grid level needs to “simplify” through
demarcation points where the utility Infrastructures digitization using open standard
network connects to local grids, data sharing communication
allowing the utility to discover line This section presents the digital interfaces (i.e., IEC 61850-9-2LE
faults and determine whether the transformation applied within the and/or IEC61869-9/13). The bay
issues are upstream or downstream. substation as well as outside the level should be able to “converge”
This saves them about 35% in the fence of transmission and distribution PAC applications with centralized
number of truck rolls. The combination networks. substation protection systems.
of auto-recloser technology and down The modularized hardware of PAC
conductor detection line monitoring Architecting Flexibility and Safety intelligent electronic devices (IEDs)
can help mitigate wildfires risks. Also, with Digital Substations can provide completely independent
with the combination of distributed communication ports to facilitate
fault detection, isolation, and More and more utilities are investing cyber security perimeter segregation
restoration, this combined technology in new protection, automation, control for process bus and station bus.
can help the utility move towards the (PAC) systems in substations. They The station bus can be designed as
goal of a “self-healing” grid. are doing this for several reasons. “future-proof” with software-defined
48 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Figure 8. A centralized protection and control system
ONE CENTRAL RELAY FOR A SWITCHGEAR/SUBSTATION
Each MU / PIU takes

two sets of current MU320 MU320
Tx1 Tx2
and voltage
ALARMS & EVENTS
MU320 MU320 MU320 MU320 MU320 MU320 SINGLE LINE
Point-to-point connections
TRENDING
CENTRALIZED PROTECTION
Auto alarm and events: visual, aural, email
SLD shows all bays on one screen, with fault location

WAVEFORMS
Trending gives warning of impending problems
Transformer and 12 bays of
feeder protection / control Automatic waveform collection; review from desk
applications for the grid of the future. to be minimal or, if possible, with and achieves cost-savings by reducing
As the grid/substation evolves (such minimum settings and segregated the amount of hardware used. While
as through renewables penetration), layer-2 (ethernet) level traffic. Easy- achieving the cost-saving is important,
the scalable substation control/ to-install and maintain hardware CPC shall not compromise the stability
automation application platform delivers higher reliability and, with and neglect the reliability offered by a
can allow future applications and interoperable protocols, this data conventional solution. Therefore, it is
solutions without replacing the would be available to any application important to find a balance of saving
hardware or platform software. at the bay or station level. without overlooking the criticality of
power system operation.
Process interface units installed Centralized Substation
close to, or as part of, primary Protection System CPC is not just about a single
equipment, are used to digitize the centralized protection device because
signal interface and communicate to Centralized protection and control (CPC) this device alone will not bring benefit
process bus over interoperable IEC is a concept to combine the function to the user. CPC is a system involving
61850-9-2 or IEC 61869-9/13 of several IEDs into single hardware process-level digitization and a
standards. The software and as illustrated in Figure 8. This allows substation human-machine interface.
settings at the process level need more efficient use of processing power Having all functions running in one
Figure 9. Software-defined grid controller architectures
VM CONTAINER
App A App B App C App A App B App C
App A App B App C Bins/Libs Bins/Libs Bins/Libs Bins/Libs Bins/Libs Bins/Libs
Bins/Libs Guest OS Guest OS Guest OS Docker
Host OS Hypervisor Hypervisor
Hardware Hardware Hardware

Photo: GE
Native Virtual Machines Containers

Issue 19
Figure 10. Software-defined advanced automation application system architecture
g Function
Real-time App Engine Server
RTOS Win 10 IoT Synchrophasors C37.118
LOGIC BOX
Client
Synchrophasors C37.118
GE Logic Engine RT v9.3 HMI application Function Straton®
g Function
Server
IEC61850 stacks GOOSE IEC61850
g Function g Connection
Client
C37.118 stacks SVIEC61850-9-2LE
g Function
Server
AFBs MMS IEC61850
g Function
Client Matlab Simulink®
GOOSE IEC61850
g Function
Server
IEC60870-5-104
Hypervisor
g Function
Client Customer Logic 1
MMS IEC61850
g Specialized Function g Function

Server
DNP3.0
g Function
Client
Legacy protocols Customer Logic n
Core 1 Core 2 Core 3 Core 4
g Function
Server
Legacy protocols
centralized hardware opens some architecture may have the potential The advanced software-defined
new requirements, such as the need to migrate non-mission-critical substation automation system shown
for robust cyber security in a CPC substation automation from native in Figure 11 is using container-
unit, redundant systems to prevent specific hardware platforms to virtual based architecture and a secure edge
maloperation due to a faulty device, machines or even cloud-native operating system lighter than typical
and time synchronization. Please containerized applications. virtual machines in terms of footprint
refer to the IEEE Power and Energy and memory usage. They boot faster
Society Power System Relaying and Figure 10 provides the architecture of and use fewer resources than virtual
Control Committee’s Working Group an advanced automation application machines. They can be deployed
K15 report online for more details on system that allows a real-time seamlessly across development,
the CPC system. operating system with a non-real- validation, and production and are
time Internet of Things operating easily portable across different
Software-Defined Automation system using virtual machine computing environments. This
and Controls architecture. The hypervisor allows system allows enhancement of grid
scalable multi-core CPU cores and reliability and flexibility to adapt to
Figure 9 presents innovation driving execution of real-time grid logic along the changes that come with the
software-defined grid automation with a non-time-critical human- integration of more renewable energy
and control platforms. The virtualized machine interface type of application. resources.
Figure 11. Software-defined grid control architectures
System operation Enterprise applications

SCADA/ Asset management
EMS/DMS Protection and control Central security server
Maintenance and engineering
SCADA data Non-operational data

Substation control room applications
Substation Substation HMI Substation security Online condition Substation data

data gateway gateway monitoring concentrator
SW-defined App Containers

in a Substation Gateway
Data and IED Integration
Substation IEDs Asset M&D Digital Fault Recorders Power Quality Meters Legacy Devices
SUBSTATION
50 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Secured System Integrity Secured Wireless and which wired technologies and older
Protection System Remote Management for wireless technologies often cannot
Decentralization provide. As communication networks
System integrity (e.g., stability, evolve and data demand from the
and resilience) of the power grid As mentioned earlier, a utility’s network increases, advancements
provides fast controls across the ability to collect and analyze both in industrial wireless technology are
transmission and distribution grid, operational and non-operational demonstrating strong applicability for
especially with large integration of data will be significant to unlocking various power grid applications. There
low-inertia renewable resources such business value while improving grid have been recent advancements in
as those shown in Figure 12. Such reliability, resiliency, and efficiency. industrial wireless communications
a system is also known as system As we deploy more sensors and that can be utilized by new protection,
integrity protection scheme, special devices “at the edge,” we need to think automation, and monitoring
protection schemes, or remedial about the infrastructure required to applications in distribution and
action schemes. Of the entire system securely collect and move data using industrial facilities to provide robust
performance budget, three cycles grid secondary devices and primary and reliable performance.
(approximately 50 ms) are allocated equipment management systems.
for communication and controller/ Traditionally, wired interfaces (copper The ability to have smart meters
logic latency. Of the 50 ms, 38 ms or optical) were the most secure send customer use and outage
is designated for communication and efficient solution. However, data, monitor and control a greater
latency and 4 ms for controller advances in secure and cost-effective number of field-mounted reclosers,
reaction time. wireless technology have opened reconfigure circuits automatically, and
up many new utility applications on deploy flexible demand programs can
A generic object-oriented system the distribution systems with the provide significant benefits to utilities
event (GOOSE) mechanism is integration of DERs. With the ability now and in the future.
used for protection and control to make these communications
applications over local area networks. more secure, these technologies are Industrial strength wireless
To use GOOSE over WAN for delivering many new benefits. technology can provide the power
applications, the implementation of utility with industrial-grade reliability,
routable-GOOSE (R-GOOSE) protocol Table 2 recognizes the existing security, and performance. Today’s
is used. High-speed (e.g., priority and evolving challenges faced by wireless devices are built with
tagging), multicasting, and security distribution utilities and maps them various substation-hardened
mechanisms supported by R-GOOSE to ongoing technology evolution standards, such as IEEE 1613 and
are used using IEC 61850 and IEC to provide future-proof suggested IEC 61850-3, with the devices able
62351 standards. Alternatively, the solutions. to withstand electrostatic discharge
phasor measurement units and and electromagnetic field radiation
phasor data concentrator-enabled As illustrated in Figure 13, advanced as well as mechanical vibrations and
data-driven synchrophasor can industrial wireless technology extreme temperatures commonly
be used based on applications, offers inexpensive installation, rapid encountered in grid applications.
network bandwidth, and performance deployment, widespread access, and Wireless networks are equipped with
requirements. mobile/portable communications encryption technologies such as
Figure 12. A typical example of a system integrity scheme with performance requirements
Photo: GE
Issue 19
Figure 13. Example of a wireless communications network
IP security (IPSec) and virtual private accounting services. Suitable configuration, and remote DER or
network (VPN) with key rotation used wireless technology should be substation monitoring. The grid of the
to enable an end-to-end encrypted selected based on criteria such future will continue to rely on a strong
IP tunnel through which data can as bandwidth, range, data latency, communications infrastructure, and
flow securely between utility assets. and regional frequency spectrum hybrid approaches that can extend or
availability. Industrial wireless supplement existing wired systems
Like a private network, a public has already been applied for DER with wireless solutions will be in the
wireless network allows transfer trip, line/feeder fault location, best position to meet current and
authorization, authentication, and distribution automation, PAC IED future grid needs.
Table 2. Distribution level challenges and solution strategies
DISTRIBUTION LEVEL CHALLENGES – EXISTING AND EVOLVING POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS

Geographically dispersed assets/devices >> difficult to access and maintain Smart distribution IED platform across
the network
Different devices, capabilities, versions, and configurations >> difficult to manage and train
Dynamic interconnections – Renewables, microgrids; bi-directional power flows, reliability Distributed Intelligence over ICT and
and efficiency standard protocols (e.g., IEC 61850)
Limited bandwidth, multiple communication protocols and mediums >> difficult to interoperate
and integrate
Evolving regulatory requirements and international standards, difficult to deploy and maintain Cyber security management
end-to-end security
New vulnerabilities and cyber-attack methods
Aging fleets with many assets reaching the end of design life in an environment of increased Predictive remote asset management
capital expenditure (CapEx) constraints integrated within smart IEDs
Operational (OpEX) constraints resulting in overwhelmed resources and difficult preventive

maintenance programs
Unexpected failures leading to safety concerns, prevention of unplanned outages, risk

mitigation
52 ENERGY
TRANSITION
Conclusions and online condition monitoring of rapid installation, etc. Cybersecurity

grid networks and equipment are requirements are achieved over both
There is no question that grid presented to improve grid reliability/ licensed/private and unlicensed/
innovations and modernization are availability and optimize operation public wireless technology options.
helping to power the energy transition and maintenance costs. The
forward. Globally, the power grid digitization of data is integrating The energy transition demands that
industry needs more investment in previously siloed data streams to we continue to modernize the grid
grid modernization and the energy provide new visibility into the overall to enable the integration of more
transition to allow more green health of critical power system renewable and distributed energy
electrons to flow while improving assets. Digital transformation of resources. Innovations such as those
grid reliability, safety, sustainability, substations protection, automation described in this article are helping
and affordability. The many parts and and control systems with purpose- while entering a new era of clean,
pieces of today’s grid infrastructures fit architecture allow convergence reliable, and affordable energy all over
are insufficient to integrate more and flexibility using international the world.
renewable resources and maintain standards for data communication.
supply through extreme external Copyright notice:
conditions, such as heatwaves or Grid resilience and stability are • © 2022 IEEE. Reprinted,
storms. The electric transmission presented with system integrity with permission, from M.
and distribution system needs to be protection systems using high- Kanabar, J. McDonald, P.
built with seamless bidirectional flow speed secured peer-to-peer Parikh, “Grid Innovations
of electricity and secured data while communications across the wide- and Digital Transformation:
considering hierarchical resilience area transmission network. At Grid Innovations and Digital
upon network disruptions. the distribution level for DER Transformation of Power
management and microgrid’s Substations Are Accelerating
To address these challenges and controls can be enabled with recent the Energy Transition for Global
unlock sustainable development, advancements in industrial wireless Utilities,” IEEE Power and
utilities are embracing grid technology. It is applied to various Energy Magazine, Volume 20,
innovations and digital transformation power applications which may require Issue 2.
across transmission and distribution lower deployment costs across • Copyright for the pictures
Photo: GE
infrastructures. Grid innovation geographic dispersed areas, mobility/ reserved by GE.

examples of analytics for automatic portability, remote location coverage,
Issue 19
www.GEGridSolutions.com/MD
Take your asset management strategy

to the next level with GE’s critical
asset monitoring solutions
Kelman™ Transport X2 Intellix™ BMT 330 Hydran™ M2-X Perception™ Fleet Kelman™ DGA 900 PLUS MS 3000 CB Watch™
Portable DGA Online Bushing/PD Online H₂ DGA Advanced M&D Software Online Multigas DGA + Holistic Transformer Online Circuit Breaker
Monitoring Bushing/PD + Modelling System Monitoring Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of critical assets is an important aspect of transformational digitization in the grid of the
future. As considerably more renewable sources of energy are introduced to the grid, the stresses and strains on
new and existing critical power delivery assets increase due to the fluctuating loads, unique operating conditions
and differing environments. By providing early identification of incipient faults, continuous monitoring creates
the opportunity for business efficiencies and justification for interventions before faults peak.
Enhancing your asset management strategy

with continuous monitoring will help to:
• Limit supply interruptions and avoid unplanned outages
• Reduce repair times and the associated costs
• Minimize planned maintenance duration and enable workforce
efficiencies
• Implement accurate and targeted condition based maintenance
Scan here for full and asset replacement
range of devices • Extend overall asset life and manage near-end of life operations
 md.products@ge.com GE, the GE monogram, Kelman, Hydran, Intellix, Perception, Transport X and CB Watch are trademarks of
the General Electric Company.
© Copyright 2022, General Electric Company. All Rights Reserved.
54 POWER SYSTEMS
TECHNOLOGY
Power Cable Systems

Reliability and Longevity:
Past, Present and
the Future
by Ben Lanz
Photo: IMCORP
Transformer Technology February 2022 55
Issue 18
Medium and high voltage (5-500 kV) cable systems are

one of the most commonly overlooked power system
assets and yet they are the arteries enabling reliable
grid operation. Their invisibility has led to mystery, a
general lack of information sharing, and in some cases,
misunderstandings leading to suboptimal operation. In
this article we take a step back to promote knowledge
sharing and industry best practices by reviewing where
we came from, the state of the art, and finally provide a
vision for reliability and longevity beyond 100 years of
service life.
With over 25 years in the power and energy in-

dustry, Ben Lanz is currently responsible for
IMCORP’s technical education and outreach
efforts and is the Chairmen of the Board for
the Power Delivery Intelligence Initiative
(PDI2.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated
to disseminating T&D best practices. He is a
Senior Member of IEEE PES and ICC, and an
active or voting member of IEEE DEIS and IAS,
American Clean Power, CIGRE, NETA, and a
founding member of Electric Power Reliability
Alliance. He has served as Chair of IEEE tech-
nical committees associated with power sys-
tem reliability, protection, and testing. He has
published dozens of peer reviewed papers and
technical conference contributions on the
subjects of power system reliability, asset
management and diagnostics and is frequent-
ly a guest speaker at numerous conferences
and seminars.
56 POWER SYSTEMS
TECHNOLOGY
The Past PILC cable cross section transient voltage conditions yield
local stresses 10 kV/mm or higher
Early power cable systems were In the 1960s and 70s medium and high causing irreparable damage. 40 years
made of oil impregnated paper voltage solid dielectric (SD) insulation later, we now know the problem with
insulation incased in a metal moisture systems were developed including aged cable systems has its genesis
barrier. The first cables date back to materials such as polyethylene (PE), with manufacturing or installation
the early 1900s. Paper insulated lead ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), anomalies that, in some rare cases,
covered (PILC) cable was a highly ethylene propylene diene monomer can be exacerbated by secondary
successful technology that enabled rubber (EPDM), and silicone rubber. moisture concentration effects (e.g.
cable systems to reliably operate These cable systems were expected water trees and halos).
at medium and high voltage stress to be cheaper and easier to install
levels for more than 60 years. These with less skilled labor; resistant to However, until the early 2000s
cable systems had the benefit of a moisture, and have a 40-year life. The when the technology to reliably
liquid dielectric (oil) that can move history of what actually happened locate defects in the field could
to void areas and provide a “self- with these early vintage SD cable illuminate the physics behind cable
healing” mechanism and paper tape systems is one of the major reasons failure mechanisms, many in the
layers that allowed technicians to underground is still a mystery to many, industry missed the origin story and
create terminations and splices and the thought of mass adoption can were misdirected to focus on the
onsite. generate fear of the unknown. secondary effects of moisture and
conduction – primary issues with
Unfortunately, much of the knowledge SD insulation fails due to an PILC cable! There were many efforts
and skill to install and maintain paper erosion process associated with a to develop tests to detect moisture
insulated systems has been lost to phenomenon called partial discharge and chemical solutions to react with
retirement and with environmental (PD). PD is an electrical discharge it and dry the cable. While tests like
concerns with oil and lead, they are (or “micro arcing”) that does not tangent delta, dielectric spectroscopy
rapidly being replaced with modern completely bridge the insulation. In and power factor could detect
plastic and rubber insulation systems. SD insulation, PD can arise from an elevated moisture or conduction
Operation and maintenance of extreme focus of electric stress, a lack levels, they could not detect most
paper insulated systems was largely of the appropriate solid insulation, defects or locate issues and often
based on material limitations and or a combination of both. Early produced erroneous values. Chemical
failure mechanisms. Many of the old manufacturing and testing standards injection processes could help dry the
systems had a maximum operating were inadequate to prevent subtle and cable insulation but could not fix any
temperature in the range of 70°C often gross defects from leaving the existing manufacturing or installation
and extreme temperatures could factory. defects that still went on to fail cable.
damage the paper irreparably. The While some manufacturers solved
most common failure mechanism was The primary cause of cable their product quality issues sooner
associated with conduction through system failure is human than others, by 1990 most of the
either moisture ingress and ionic induced damage exacerbated improvements included in today’s
conduction or carbonized papers due by extreme transient voltage cable systems had been implemented
to a localized lack of oil and partial conditions. and adopted by utility standards. For
discharge (PD, described in more detail this reason, the industry typically sees
below). Not surprisingly, the factory In one case in the 1970s, Dr. a significant reliability improvement in
and field tests typically recommended Matthew Mashikian working for cable systems installed after 1990.
were largely based on measurement Detroit Edison research lab asked
techniques sensitive to conduction thirteen manufacturers to supply
and insulation losses such as DC high SD cable. Using a modified World
potential (HIPOT) with leakage current War II radio, he performed 60 Hz
or AC or very low frequency (VLF, PD tests and disqualified eleven of
0.1 Hz) tangent delta (tan delta (TD)). the thirteen suppliers. Clearly, cable
100% PD tested in the factory was
Medium and high voltage insufficient for service in the early
cable systems are one of the 1970s. It wasn’t until manufacturers
most commonly overlooked learned to improve materials, material
power system assets and yet handling and the extrusion process
they are the arteries enabling that SD cable system reliability
reliable grid operation. started to dramatically improve.
Their invisibility has led Manufacturers learned that even
to mystery, a general lack variations as small as a tenth of a
of information sharing, millimeter in cable layer interfaces
and in some cases, over decades of time can yield
misunderstandings leading electrical stress concentrations, and
to suboptimal operation. in some rare circumstances, under
Transformer Technology February 2022 57
Issue 18
Common manufacturing defect:

Protrusion on the inner
Photo: IMCORP
semiconducting layer of MV cable as

seen through transparent insulation
during a hot oil analysis
58 POWER SYSTEMS
TECHNOLOGY
Today enable cable systems to last longer? by-meter profiles of over 200,000
Studies show that the SD materials new and aged cable systems rated
According to one recent study, can perform reliably for over 100 years. 5 to 500 kV and thousands of field
manufacturing issues constitute a and laboratory dissections, the
minimum of 5% of cable insulation Studies show that the SD primary cause of cable system
defects detected in new systems. materials can perform reliably failure is human induced damage
This means approximately 95% of for over 100 years. exacerbated by extreme transient
problems are caused by human voltage conditions. Successive
intervention during installation. What So why are cable systems failing transients initialize PD in defects
have we learned and what can we do today? On the basis of a study intermittently until the associated
to avoid the issues of the past and including field assessed meter- erosion process causes failure.
Repeated field tests pinpointing the

106 same defects over multiple years and
subsequent laboratory dissections
Normal Ops. @2kV/mm e show manufacturing and installation
@≤90C yields >100 year life
105 defects often take years and
d sometimes decades to go to failure.
b c
104 However, once an aged cable fails,

Life (Hours)
a studies show the fault location

process, often including intentional
103 voltage transients, creates new
defects, thus fulfilling the commonly
held belief that cables have a life
100 a: E = 15kV/mm
shorter than 100 years.
b: E = 10kV/mm
c: E = 5kV/mm
d: E = 2kV/mm
e: E = 0.5kV/mm So, how can we avoid this cycle
10 20 50 120 180 of damaging cable systems and
80
Temperature in Deg C drive longevity? We need to avoid
introducing defects and extreme
R. Gorur, M. Dyer, Saint, A Novel Approach for Prioritizing Maintenance of Underground Cables PSERC Report 2006
voltage stress. How? Consider the

following short list of current industry
Cable under typical 2 kV/mm stress operated under 90°C lasts longer than 10 6
best practices:
or 114 years
• Specify accessory products that
Common termination defect:
are easy to install with large
Jagged outer semiconducting layer cutback
tolerance for installer error
• Train installers to know what a
defect looks like and how to fix
when a defect is identified
• Commission cable systems with
a test comparable to the cable
and accessory manufacturers’
standards (Overvoltage 50/60 Hz
PD test with 5 pC sensitivity)
• Avoid overvoltage tests that do not
measure the failure mechanism
(PD)
• Ensure proper overvoltage protect
(surge arresters) are installed at
impedance transitions (overhead
to underground transition, branch
points, and end points)
• For critical or high ampacity
circuits also consider using shear
Photo: Wolv via Getting Images
bolt connectors, inspect connector

IR signatures under high load
conditions, and use ultrasound to
detect any significant arcing due
to open air termination clearance
issues.
Issue 19
60 POWER SYSTEMS
TECHNOLOGY
The Future buried to enable the best ampacity to improve craftwork and drive out
performance and the lowest upfront operating and maintenance costs
What will cable systems look like in and operating and maintenance during the capital investment period
the future? While we cannot predict costs. High-cost duct and vaults (installation). Once a cable system
the future, we can observe trends and systems have some of the highest is installed, the cable owner will only
extrapolate. Cable system technology maintenance costs and yet show no need to apply maintenance when
has not dramatically changed in the significant reliability improvement an extreme event is detected. In the
last three decades and will not likely over directly buried systems. future, data analytics will utilize input
change much in the next decade. from distributed sensors detecting
However, more and more power Compared to overhead, extreme voltage and current events,
system owners are looking at the underground is on the order and data from work orders which
lifecycle costs of transmission and of ten times safer and ten indicate potentially damaging
distribution systems and are choosing times more reliable, can last mechanical events (such as repairs,
underground over overhead. Compared two to three times longer than relocations, and support structure
to overhead, underground is on the wood supported systems, is failures) to drive work orders and
order of ten times safer and ten times far more resilient in the face direct technicians to
more reliable, can last two to three of natural disasters, and the re-baseline the cable system using
times longer than wood supported operating and maintenance the commissioning test and repair
systems, is far more resilient in the costs are typically more than accordingly (see best practices
face of natural disasters, and the three times lower. mentioned above).
operating and maintenance costs are
typically more than three times lower. Where the industry will likely see With modern cable systems
In the future, where the upfront costs great improvement is in grid reliability properly specified, installed,
are reasonable, cable systems are performance such as when cable commissioned, and protected
likely to be selected as the “ultimate owners take advantage of installer from extreme operational
sustainability solution” for power training coupled with effective events, the physics indicates
delivery networks. Where feasible, commissioning tests (as mentioned we can expect them to last
cable systems will likely be directly above) to provide a feedback loop longer than 100 years.
Conclusion
The industry has come a long way
from the days of the intensive skill
needed to install PILC cable and the
poor performance of early vintage
solid dielectric systems. Systems are
easier to install correctly and more
reliable than ever before. We have
learned the physics behind cable
reliability and longevity, and we no
longer need to guess at the failure
mechanism. This means we can
be much more efficient and precise
with specifications avoiding costly
partial solutions or risky, ineffective
procedures. With modern cable
systems properly specified, installed,
commissioned, and protected from
extreme operational events, the
physics indicates we can expect them
to last longer than 100 years.
Issue 19
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64 TECHNICAL
ADVISORS’ COLUMN:
ALAN ROSS
The step-down system of transformer as we pay control devices of a circuit transformers, machine tool
power grids is what makes attention to the big brother or machine, considering transformers and isolation
transformers so critical from of the transformer family, that the reduced voltage transformers, providing
generation to distribution, both fluid filled and dry type. provides a much safer much needed voltage
to power industrial and environment for technicians regulation where they are
commercial equipment, But control transformers working on or around the designed to produce a high
and ultimately to light the have their own important equipment. level of secondary voltage
lights that the world relies part to play. Control trans- stability during brief periods
upon. In many cases we formers are transformers They are also referred to of overload condition,
lose site of the seemingly that are used to step down as industrial control trans- typically known as inrush
insignificant control the voltage to power the formers, control power current.
Control Transformers
Alan Ross, CRL, CMRP, is the Technical Di-

rector of APC Media and the Editor in Chief
and Chair of the Technical Advisors Board of
Transformer Technology magazine. Alan has
decades of experience in the power systems
industry and is one of the greatest reliability
experts out there.
Photo: Shutterstock
Issue 19
Additionally, control Growing Demand – as chemical, and metal and to hinder the market growth
transformers are used Growing Criticality mining), and the demand to during the forecast period.”
to reduce or eliminate reduce equipment failure on
harmonics or transients – A recent marketing report account of frequent voltage Now that the effects of
power quality issues that indicated that “the industrial fluctuations are likely to Covid seem to be waning,
can have a significantly control transformer market drive the market, especially will we see a rebounding
negative affect on solid is expected to grow at a in the emerging economies. effect, where the actual
state production equipment, CAGR of around 3.5% over However, due to the growth rate for the next few
an ever-increasing evolution the next decade. Factors outbreak of COVID-19, slow years will rebound beyond
within the move such as the increasing down, or delay of different 3.5%? It is more likely to
to “everything digital”. number of industries (such industrial projects are likely happen than not to happen.
Applications Where electromagnetic materials to insulate turn-

devices like solenoid to-turn windings; layer-to-
Control transformers switches or relays are layer windings, primary-
are most often used in used, especially in to-secondary windings;
an electronic circuit that industrial applications, and for grounding. Control
requires constant voltage the control transformer transformers are vacuum
or constant current with maximizes inrush impregnated with VT
a low power or volt-amp capability and output polyester resin and oven-
rating when power quality voltage regulation when cured, which seals the
issues impact the circuit electromagnetic devices surface and eliminates
whether due to harmonics are initially energized. moisture. The resin creates
or transients. Capacitors a strong mechanical bond
are also used to minimize Control transformers utilize and offers protection from
the variations in the output. high-quality insulating the environment.
66 TECHNICAL
ADVISORS’ COLUMN:
ALAN ROSS
Specification to the load circuit for • Inrush load power factor The concept of inrush
an extended period — is difficult to determine current can be seen in
For proper control trans- the amount of current without detailed vector heavy electricity-powered
former specification, three required to hold the analysis of all the load machinery when the start
characteristics of the load contact in the circuit. components. Since button is pushed to power a
circuit must be determined • Total inrush VA is the such an analysis is high-voltage motor and the
in addition to the minimum volt amperes that the typically not feasible, contactor coil is energized.
voltage required to operate transformer must deliver a safe assumption is The overload condition is
the circuit. upon initial energization 40% power factor. handled far more efficiently
of the control circuit. by control transformers than
These are total steady-state Energization of electro- A great example of an a conventional supply, making
(sealed) VA, total inrush VA, magnetic devices takes isolation transformer in them efficient power supplies
and inrush load power factor 30-50 milliseconds. action is the use of power that can be safely used by
as follows: During this inrush period, adapters for laptops since workers that use start and
the electromagnetic there is a difference stop buttons in dangerous
• Total steady-state control devices draw between the voltage levels work environments.
(sealed) VA is the volt- many times normal supplied to homes and the
amperes that the trans- current — 3-10 times lower voltage levels The control transformer, like
former must deliver normal is typical. required by the laptop itself. the ordinary transformer,
Instrument Transformers utilization current or voltmeters, ammeters, secondary equipment, like

voltage from the supply watt-meters, watt-hour meters, protection relays,
Another type of control voltage for the safety of meters, protection relays, bay computers and a
transformer is the both the operator and the and more. growing number of other
instrument transformer, end device in use. Instrument transformers devices. They are also
which is a general term are an important and used to provide energy to
applied to current and Instrument transformers essential component for protective relays. Accuracy,
voltage devices used are designed specifically safe and efficient operation the degree to which
to change currents for use with electrical of transmission and grid instrument transformers
and voltages from one equipment falling into networks. They provide produce a current or
magnitude to another or the broad category of accuracy and reliability voltage that is proportional
to perform an isolating devices commonly called for the measurement of to the monitored value,
function: to isolate the instruments such as current and voltage in varies among devices.
Issue 19
allows for the transformation in the control circuit. The circuit with the appropriate Most control transformers
of high-voltage electricity typical solution would be to amount of voltage. are sold in a variety of
from the main circuit into a install more bus bars or run forms, being classified by
lower voltage that is used separate cables through a Control transformers are secondary – 240 primary
to operate the switching separate power feed, but typically more expensive as & secondary, and 480
components within the anyone with experience will they tend to use insulating primary & secondary are
main circuit itself. tell you that this option is materials of the highest just a sample of the variety
impractical. quality. that is currently available
If you take a look at a on the market. These
machine that is powered Likewise, it is unsafe to For example, some brands transformers are being
by a 600-volt motor, the have high voltage electricity sell control transformers used in a wide variety of
contactors used to turn flowing through tightly that are oven-cured and applications that include
the machine on and off packed wiring with a impregnated with vinyl (but are not limited to)
are powered by electro- control panel. The easier toluene polyester resin, schools, shopping centers,
magnetic coils that operate and more effective solution which allows for the apartment complexes,
at voltages that are far is to keep the main circuit elimination of moisture industrial plants and
lower. In other words, the voltage and pass it through while keeping the surface hospitals.
voltage coming from the a control transformer that sealed and protected from
main circuit can’t be used can then provide the control environmental damage.
Conclusion or anything else that uses to bring more reliability and

high-voltage electricity resilience to the system,
Control transformers have through a control panel, brings the need for more
many names based on you will be able to see their and more complex controls.
their purpose, but they magic in action.
all allow for low control Control transformers,
circuit voltage to be safely The complexity of the while not considered as
used in applications where future grid is changing as important as their “big
high voltages are required Distributed Energy brothers” – fluid filled or
through the supply of Resources Management dry type transformers, are
Photo: Shutterstock
control power. The next (DERM), the electrification an increasingly important

time you power a heavy- of transportation with the part of grid and industrial
duty construction machine adoption of EVs and efforts networks.
A BETTER ENERGY FUTURE IS
A FUTURE OF COLLABORATION
68
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Transformer Technology WOMEN April 2022 69
Issue 19 OF NOTE
Efra Farah Usmani
ni is
Efra F. Usma nd
d a
a Team Lea er
a n a g
Projec t M
E -M o b il it y
of the
a rt m e n t a t
D ep logy
n o
Power Tech ).
h (P TR
Researc
lover
A s a nature she
r,
and a travele e
e th
likes to se
ys as
role she pla rgy
o f th e e ne
part
n si ti o n th at helps
tra
th e planet.
preserve
s.
s and Physic
Ef ra lo ve d Mathematic Electrical
ood, ies of
From childh led her to opt for stud ty of Management
This interest at the Lahore Universi , Pakistan. During
EngineeringUMS) in Lahore, Punjab the power and
Sciences (L Efra found her interest inlater do her senior
her studies, ergy sector and would le energy. She served
renewable enon the topic of renewab Chapter in her junior
year project sident of the IEEE LUMS ower and Energy
as Vice-Pre President of the IEEE P e was also involved in
year and as ) in her senior year. Sh ty Program (SRP) of
Society (PES first Social Responsibilier who was working as
initiating thealong with her twin sist neering (WiE) LUMS.
her societ y t of IEEE Women in Engi e did internships at
the Presidenundergraduate years shpatch Company of
During her Transmission and Dis itchgear component
the NationalTDC) as well as in the sw EL) and
on Limited (Paduated
P ak is ta n (N P ak El ek tr
er company NG. She gr
manufactur unications Company ZOical Engineering
at Tele co m m an El ec tr gy. Efra
2019, earning newable ener
from LUMS ina focus on power and rethe lead EV charging
degree with professional career astern and Eastern
star ted her e Analyst for the Wes er Grid depar tment
infrastructurarkets and in the Pow orked with some of
European m g her time there she w ution (T&D) and
at PTR. DurinTransmission and Distribojects and research on
the biggest ients and was part of pr n as Team Lead and
E-Mobility cl l. At her current positioDepar tment at Power
a global leve ager of the E-Mobility eps up to date with Source:
Project Man Research (PTR), she ke d enjoys working in Efra F. Usmani
Technology ends in the industry any sector. Efra is a big
the latest tr pact field of the energ ains and rivers of
this high-im ar t and loves the mountstan. She spends her
traveler at hel Nor thern areas of Paki time with her family, .
the beautifu oing out and spending ative documentaries
Photo: Efra F. Usmani, rawpixel.com
weekends g ks and watching inform

reading boo
70 MARKET
LANDSCAPE
How Crucial is HVDC for

Energy Transition?
Landscape of HVDC Technology
in North America and Europe
by Qutab Baig
Photo: Shutterstock
Issue 19
The world is undergoing an

energy transition right now,
especially the advanced
economies in Europe and North
America, in line with the Net-Zero
targets and commitments made
at the regional and international
Qutab Baig is a Senior Analyst and Team Lead- level. Within the energy sector,
er at Power Technology Research. He manages
a team of analysts developing a global knowl- the debate is usually highly
edge base around several key topics impacted focused on power generation and
by the energy transition, including High Volt-
age Direct Current (HVDC) Systems, Flexible
the shift to cleaner resources,
AC Transmission Systems (FACTS), Onshore however, the transmission
Power Supply (OPS) and Energy Storage Sys-
tems (ESS). Qutab has spearheaded several
facilities, which are key enablers
in-house and custom studies for Fortune 500 in evacuating this power to
clients in the U.S. and Europe. By education,
Qutab is an electrical engineer with a MS de-
achieve desired transition, are
gree in Electrical Engineering. often overlooked.
72 MARKET
LANDSCAPE
Globally, transmission lines and facilities, One of the

there are however, with the evolution of power
electronics coupled with the need to fastest
more growing
integrate more and more renewables
in the grid, HVDC transmission
than 350 applications

systems have also been regularly
installed around the world.
installed and of HVDC

The installations of HVDC systems
can be segmented into three
main applications: bulk power
upcoming transmission, interconnecting grids,
and infeed urban areas. HVDC has been
HVDC systems are a popular choice for
cross border interconnections. For the offshore
projects, instance, submarine cables are
being installed to transmit power wind
spread across regions and countries along
with overhead HVDC lines, e.g. connection
around the BritNed or Sardinia-Italy Mainland
connections. These systems are with the grid.
world. best suited for supplying electricity
to densely populated urban areas
where significant obstruction could
Globally, there are more than 350
installed and upcoming HVDC projects,
One of the key elements within this be caused by the density of overhead spread around the world, with the
infrastructure are the long-distance lines. One of the fastest growing largest number of them being in APAC,
transmission lines. Historically, applications of HVDC has been followed by Europe and North America.
electricity over long distances has the offshore wind connection with This article will focus on two of these
been transmitted through HVAC the grid. regions: North America and Europe.
1980: LCC HVDC cross 2021: MMC VSC HVDC

border connection 2000: First cross border system installation in USA
between Brazil and VSC HVDC project LCC HVDC system
Paraguay between USA and Mexico installation in USA
3.8 GW to 8.5 GW Addition of 13.2 GW Addition of 1.8 GW Addition of 4.3 GW Addition of 29 GW Expected addition of approx.62 GW
Era of LCC HVDC Entrance of VSC in HVDC Market Combine growth of LCC and VSC HVDC
1970: LCC HVDC 1990: LCC HVDC B2B link 2010: Subsea nationwide 2021 onward: Offshore
Nationwide connection in in USA HVDC connection in USA wind power expansion,
USA inline with Bipartisan
Infrastructure Bill, will
boost both VSC and LCC
HVDC market in USA.
Figure 1. Timeline of deployment HVDC technology in the US (Source: Power Technology Research)
HVDC Market in North America and with a few cross-border HVDC Technology Split in North
interconnection with neighboring America
The North American HVDC countries. Canada, on the other hand,
transmission market is largely has a current HVDC transmission Overall, the HVDC transmission
driven by the U.S. and Canada where capacity of around 12 GW. The HVDC market of the North American region is
sweeping majority of the region’s market in Canada experienced a dominated by LCC HVDC technology.
HVDC transmission capacity is boom in 1980s and in the last decade However, in the coming years,
installed. Region’s overall HVDC when majority of nationwide HVDC with the expansion of renewables,
transmission capacity accounts for interconnection commenced their particularly offshore wind farms, more
more than 32 GW, with LCC HVDC commercial operations. The Canadian VSC HVDC systems are proposed
projects dominating the installed HVDC market has been dominated by by TSOs to enhance the reliability
capacity. Figure 1 gives a brief timeline LCC HVDC, with the first VSC HVDC and transmission capacity of the
of key HVDC projects installed in system, installed by ABB, starting transmission grid.
the US. its commercial operation in 2018.
Beyond the U.S. and Canada, other Until 2000, an overwhelming majority
Within North America, the U.S. markets in the region have very small of the HVDC transmission systems
current HVDC transmission capacity installed capacities: e.g. Mexico installed in the region were LCC
is around 20 GW. LCC HVDC has only one LCC project (Railroad HVDC systems accounting for 95% of
technology is leading the market in DC Tie) with a capacity of 300 MW the total installations, whereas only
the country with the majority of HVDC connecting Mexican national grid 5% of the systems were VSC HVDC
interconnections being nationwide, to ERCOT. systems. From 2000 to 2010, majority
Issue 19
of the projects installed were still LCC HVDC Market Drivers in U.K., Italy, Denmark and France have
HVDC systems accounting for 71% North America the highest HVDC transmission
of the total projects installed, but VSC capacity. The region has a cumulative
HVDC technology gained traction The renewable energy targets, HVDC transmission installed capacity
accounting for 29% of the installed specifically the planned expansion of of around 43 GW, with Germany
projects. In the last 10 years, the trend offshore wind along with the proposed leading the region in terms of installed
has been similar, with 67% of the legislation (if approved) and the loan HVDC transmission capacity, followed
projects installed being LCC HVDC guarantees from the Department of by U.K. and Italy.
systems, followed by VSC HVDC Energy for transmission projects in
projects accounting for a slightly the U.S., will be the primary drivers of Germany has an installed HVDC
more than 33% of the total projects HVDC demand in North America. transmission capacity of 11.25 GW
installed (Figure 2). of electricity. German HVDC system
The U.S. has a 25.4% share of in spread not only within the country
The U.S. renewables in the generation capacity

mix and is planning to reach 80% of
itself, but also has interconnections
with neighboring countries including
has a 25.4% the capacity mix by 2030. On the other

hand, Canada is already targeting
Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden.
share of to reach 90% renewables (including

Hydro) by 2030. A big part of these In the U.S.,
renewables New York,
targets is expected to be met through
offshore wind energy. In the U.S., New
in the Massachusetts,
York, Massachusetts, New Jersey,
Maryland, and Virginia will be spending
generation New Jersey,

around USD 55 billion on 15 offshore
wind energy projects in the next ten
capacity Maryland and

years, with the overall country-wide
target of 30 GW offshore by 2030 set
by Biden’s administration. Most of
mix and is these projects will be connected to the
power grid using HVDC transmission Virginia will
planning to interconnections, possibly funded
via Electric Power Infrastructure be spending
reach 80% of Improvement Act or US DOE’s Loan
Program Office. around USD
the capacity HVDC Market in Europe 55 billion on
mix by 2030. Across the Atlantic in Europe, Germany, 15 offshore
wind energy
HVDC Installations - Technology split, North America projects in
5%
the next ten
29% 33%
years, with
the overall
95% country-wide
71% 67%
target of 30
GW offshore
by 2030 set by
Biden’s
UNTIL 2000 2001-2010 2011-2021
LCC (Thyristor Based) VSC (IGBT Based)
Figure 2. HVDC installations in North America (Source: Power Technology Research) administration.
74 MARKET
LANDSCAPE
U.K.
24 GW capacity
addition is projected
by 2030.
Denmark
3.6 GW capacity
in coming years.
Germany
16 GW capacity
by 2035.
Italy
5 GW capacity
by 2030.
France
5.4 GW capacity
in coming years.
Figure 3. Top five HVDC markets in Europe (Source: Power Technology Research)
U.K., with the second largest installed HVDC Technology Split in Europe HVDC Market Drivers in Europe
capacity, hosts 6.4 GW of HVDC
transmission capacity and the The majority of the HVDC systems Europe has set ambitious renewable
country has several cross border installed in Europe between mid- energy targets, whose realization
HVDC interconnections with France, 1970s and 2000 were thyristor based will provide a significant boost to
Netherlands and Norway. However, LCC HVDC systems. From 2001 to the demand of HVDC transmission
the country is continuing to expand 2010, however, the VSC IGBT systems systems. Several regulations are
the transmission capacity through market experienced a substantial in force in the E.U., such as the
new HVDC projects to transmit growth in the region as these systems renewable energy directive and
electricity from the offshore wind provide a quick switching response national renewable energy action
farms in the North Sea back to shore. compared to LCC Thyristor HVDC plans, which are key driving factors in
Italian HVDC transmission network systems. VSC IGBT systems and the transition to a low-carbon energy
has the capacity to deliver 3.7 GW LCC Thyristor systems accounted for system. Europe is striving to become
of electricity from the generation 56% and 44% of the new installations the first carbon neutral continent
center to load centers in the country. respectively between 2001-2010. by 2050 and the targets have been
Italy also has a couple of cross- From 2010-2020, 72% of the set accordingly for deployment of
border HVDC projects connecting the installations in the region were VSC renewables in the region. European
Photo: Freepik
Italian grid with grids of France and IGBT based while only 28% were LCC Union has set a target of installing at
Montenegro. Thyristor based installations. least 60 GW of cumulative offshore
Issue 19
wind by 2030 and 300 GW of renewable category, along with the the power generated by offshore
cumulative offshore wind capacity increasing cross-border connections wind farms in the load centers.
by 2050. within the E.U. and between the U.S. Canada is expected to install 4 GW of
& Canada, will continue driving the HVDC transmission capacity in the
Moreover, the European demand for HVDC systems in these coming years, majority of which will
Commission’s directive has two regions. be cross-border HVDC transmission
set a target of at least 10% capacity needed to import clean
interconnection capacity by 2020 The recent developments in the E.U. electricity to Canada from the U.S.
and 15% interconnection capacity indicate that there is a huge potential
by 2030 to transmit electricity to
neighboring countries. As the region
for deployment of renewables which
will give boost to the market of HVDC The U.S. is
planning
pursues offshore wind energy transmission systems needed to
targets along with the increase in transmit power over long distances.
to install
the interconnection capacity, HVDC Development of offshore wind power
systems are expected to play a plants specifically is gaining a lot of
around 39
crucial role in transmitting this traction in the North Sea and Baltic
power in the continent. Sea regions, which will in turn provide
a push to the HVDC transmission
Europe is systems market in the region.

Germany alone is planning to add GW of HVDC
striving to
around 16 GW of HVDC transmission
capacity by 2035 focused on transmission
become the
strengthening their nationwide HVDC
infrastructure along with cross- capacity by
first carbon
border HVDC interconnections with
Norway, Switzerland and Italy. 2030.
neutral In North America, majority of the
activity in the HVDC transmission
After a relative slowdown in new
projects over the last couple of years,
continent by systems market in the coming years

will be seen in the U.S., which plans
both regions are expected to grow
significantly for the next few years,
2050 and to install around 39 GW of HVDC

transmission capacity till 2030.
with sustained demand especially
for IGBT based VSC HVDC systems.
the targets VSC HVDC systems are expected

to overtake the LCC HVDC systems
It is certainly important to keep a
close eye on tenders and market
have been set market as they provide a higher

response rate suitable to integrate
developments, if your business is in
any way related to HVDC technology.
accordingly
for
deployment HVDC Installations - Technology split, Europe
of renewables
5%
17%
in the region. 44%
72%
Moving Forward
The HVDC transmission is vital 78.00%

technology to connect these
56.00%
renewable energy generation
centers with the load centers or
28%
onshore grid infrastructure. With
the growing trend of renewable
energy deployment throughout the UNTIL 2000 2001-2010 2011-2021
2021
world, the HVDC industry is gaining
pace. Rollout of renewable energy LCC (Thyristor Based) VSC (IGBT Based) Mercury Arc Valves
resources, especially the offshore
wind energy segment within the Figure 4. HVDC installations in Europe (Source: Power Technology Research)
76 TRANSFORMER
COMPANY
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IN THE ONLY
TRANSFORMER COMPANY YELLOW PAGES
IN THE INDUSTRY
HaVe ClieNtS
CoMetoYU
o
ASK US HOW TO LIST
AND LEARN ABOUT THE BENEFITS
HERE
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Issue 19
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78 STRICTLY TECHNICAL:
HEARING FROM OUR
TECH TEAMS
Transformer Connections:
Types and Their Impact on
System Performance
by Ed Khan
1 2
Transformers are connected in
various configurations, some of which
are delta/wye, wye/wye and wye/
Photo: Doble Engineering
delta. Transformer connections have

an impact on a number of criteria of 1. Phase shifts impact relay 2. Neutral grounding of wye connected
system performance, including the protection and system operability winding impacts ground relaying
following: and overall system performance
Issue 19
Ed Khan is the Director of Protection R&D

and Protection Training at Doble Engineering,
where he manages and conducts relay pro-
tection training program. He has been with
Doble for 14 years working in various capaci-
ties including Product Manager for protection
tested related instruments. Prior to Doble, Ed
worked for GE, ABB, SEL, KEMA and other
companies in various capacities. He has 38
years of experience in power systems. Ed has
a master’s in electrical engineering obtained
from Texas A&M.
3
3. Flow of ground fault current
impacts relay protection and
system performance 4
4. Passage of third harmonic current
is needed to produce sinusoidal
transformer output voltage 5
5. Connections enabling twelve pulse
rectification
HEARING FROM OUR
TECH TEAMS
Impact on differential
protection
One of the impacts is related to

transformer differential protection.
To understand this impact, we must
review the phase angle shifts that
result from various connections.
Figure 1 shows the wye-wye

connection. In this connection the
primary and secondary currents, in
all phases, are in phase and hence
there is no need for compensation.
Figure 2 shows the delta-wye

connection (which can also be
wye-delta). In this connection the Figure 1. Wye-wye connection
primary and secondary currents in
all phases are not in phase. There is
a 30-degree phase shift and hence,
a compensation is needed. This
compensation is performed through
current transformer connections,
or, internally, in a microprocessor
differential relay.
Figure 3 shows common

transformer connections that are in
use. The phase shifts are designated
in terms of hour positions on a
clock. For example, Dd0 means
that the primary and the secondary
current are in phase with A phase of
windings at 12 o’clock or zero hours.
Similarly, DY1 connection means Figure 2. Delta-wye connection

that the primary winding is
connected in delta with A phase
pointing at 12 o’clock and the
secondary winding is connected in
wye with A phase pointing towards
1 o’clock, resulting in a phase shift
with wye winding lagging delta
winding by 30°.
If we look at a three-winding
transformer, a connection
designated as YNy0d1 means that
the primary is wye grounded at
12 o’clock and the secondary
winding is wye ungrounded also
set at 12 o’clock or zero hours.
The delta tertiary is shifted towards
Photo: Doble Engineering
1 o’clock resulting in a phase shift

of thirty degree from the wye
windings. The letter N or n stands
for grounded neutral. Figure 3. Common transformer connections
Issue 19
Phasing issues
Transformer connections can lead

to phasing issues which can be
solved by using appropriate winding
connections.
Figure 4 shows a layout at a typical

powerplant. Transformer T5, which
has been circled in the diagram, feeds
the auxiliary load. When the generator
is started and brought online, the
power to the auxiliary bus is fed by
transformer T6. Breakers B and T
are in close position and breaker A is
open. The auxiliary bus feeds motors
and other loads that are necessary
to support the generator. Once the
generator is synchronized, breaker
A is closed followed by opening of
breaker B. Hence, the two sources fed
by breakers A and B are paralleled for
a short duration. Hence, the output of
transformer T5 and T6 should be in
phase. To achieve this, the transformer
T5 has to be of certain connection, as
shown in Figure 4. If the generator
step up is connected as YNd1, T5 will
have to be connected as DYn11.
Shifting of transformer
damage curve
Figure 5 shows a delta-wye trans-
former with neutral grounded. In the
event of a line to ground fault on the
Figure 4. A typical powerplant layout wye side of the transformer, the ground
relays on the delta side will not see
this ground fault. This is due to infinite
zero sequence impedance between
the two windings. However, the phase
relays will see this as a phase-to-
phase fault with magnitude diminished
to 58% of what it would see if there
were a three-phase fault on the wye
side. The transformer damage curve,
which represents the capability of the
transformer to withstand a through
fault is plotted for a three-phase fault.
In effect, the phase relays on the
delta side are seeing only 58% of the
current and hence will not trip in time
to protect the transformer. Hence, the
solution is to shift both the damage
curve and the characteristics of the
phase relay by 58% towards the left.
In effect, the setting for the phase
Figure 5. A delta-wye transformer with neutral grounded overcurrent relay needs modification.
HEARING FROM OUR
TECH TEAMS
Managing the flow of third

harmonic
Excitation current required by

transformers is between 1-5% of the
rated current of the transformers.
The excitation current contains 60 Hz
along with few harmonics. Most
prominent harmonics are the 3rd, 5th,
7th, 9th, and 11th. The 3rd harmonic,
which is most prominent, requires
special attention. To understand
the issue, we must understand the
characteristics of this harmonic.
Figure 6 shows the sequence of the

1st through 3rd harmonic. The first,
second and third harmonics exhibit
positive, negative and zero sequence
characteristics, respectively. Using Figure 6. The sequence of the 1st through 3rd harmonic
the first harmonic phase angles as
reference, we obtain the sequence
angles for 2nd and 3rd harmonics by
multiplying the 60Hz angles by two
and three, respectively. As shown
Figures 6 and 7, the 2nd and 3rd
harmonics exhibit characteristics
of negative and zero sequence,
respectively.
Similarly, the 4th, 5th and 6th

harmonics are positive, negative and
zero sequence and likewise 7th, 8th
and 9th harmonics are also positive,
negative and zero sequence.
_
In Figure 7 we observe that the
vector addition of IA, IB, and IC for
both positive and negative Figure 7.
sequences result in a sum of
0 because of 120° separation. Hence,
there is no current at the neutral
to flow back to another available
neutral. This is not the case with the
3rd, 6th, and 9th harmonics. These are
zero sequence harmonics and the
summation at the neutral is three
times the current in each phase.
The 3rd, 6th and 9th harmonic will flow
if there is either a delta winding or a
close path through ground. In short,
the zero sequence harmonics need
a closed path. This is explained in
Figure 8.
Furthermore, in the case of wye-

delta connection as shown in Figure
8, the 3rd harmonic line-neutral emf
will force a third harmonic current in
the delta which forms a close loop. Figure 8. The 3rd harmonic in the wye-delta connection
Issue 19
There is no need for 3rd harmonic

current to flow in the wye winding.
Additionally, there is no line-to-line 3rd
harmonic emf present because the
3rd harmonic currents are all in phase.
Figure 9 shows a delta-delta

connection. This connection is not a
preferred option for various reasons.
However, this connection does
provide a closed path for the third
harmonic to flow.
Figure 10 shows a wye-wye

configuration for a transformer.
The source supplies the excitation
voltage, which contains 3rd harmonic
line-neutral voltage. This voltage is
impressed on primary winding of the
transformer. However, there is no
closed path for the third harmonic to
flow. Third harmonic current must be
allowed to flow to eliminate any third
harmonic voltage in the transformer
output voltage.
If the transformer is core type, third

harmonic current will flow since in
a core type transformer the winding
layout creates a fictitious delta tertiary.
If it is a shell type, a delta tertiary
will be required unless the neutral
of the source and the neutral of the
transformer primary are grounded.
However, the grounding of these two
neutrals is not preferred since the
Figure 9. A delta-delta connection flow of 3rd harmonic between the two
neutrals will cause interference with
communication circuits.
One exception related to zero

sequence harmonic (3rd, 6th, 9th) as
opposed to 60 Hz zero sequence is
that the flow of these triplen harmonic
currents do not follow the balancing
ampere turn rule. This means that a
current flow in one winding does not
require a flow of current in the other
winding. In other words, balancing the
ampere turns is not required.
The wye-wye connections with

neutrals ungrounded as connection
shown in Figure 10 has other
issues such as neutral instability,
Photo: Shutterstock
overvoltage, etc. and hence is not

preferred unless the transformer has
Figure 10. A wye-wye configuration a core type winding.
HEARING FROM OUR
TECH TEAMS
In the case of a shell type trans-

former, a tertiary winding is definitely
used. Figure 11 shows a shell type
transformer and this connection
will allow third harmonic current to
flow and suppress the 3rd harmonic
voltage in the transformer output
voltage. If this was a core type
transformer, the third harmonic will
flow without the delta tertiary since
the core type winding creates a
fictitious delta tertiary.
_ Figure 11. A shell type transformer
Figure 12 shows a case where the

transformer is connected in wye-wye
with system neutral grounded and the
primary of the transformer grounded.
In this case 3rd harmonic will flow in
the wye primary winding. However, the
flow of harmonic between the system
neutral and the transformer primary
neutral will result in interference with
communication system.
In this case if there is a delta tertiary

in addition to the grounding of
neutrals as shown in Figure 12, the Figure 12. A wye-wye connected transformer with system neutral grounded
3rd harmonic will split between the and the primary of the transformer grounded.
primary winding and the delta winding
and this split is of no concern.
Figure 13 shown below is the best

connection for allowing the flow of
3rd harmonic. The 3rd harmonic emf is
impressed on the delta winding and
resultant 3rd harmonic flows in the
delta winding.
There is no need for corresponding

3rd harmonic to flow in the secondary
winding since balancing ampere turns
is not required as far as 3rd, 6th, 9th Figure 13. Best connection for allowing the flow of 3rd harmonic.
harmonics are concerned.
Figure 14 shows the same

configuration as Figure 13 except
the primary winding is connected in
wye and the secondary winding is
connected in delta. In this case also
the 3rd harmonic current has a closed
path to flow within the delta.
Figure 14. Same as Fig. 13 but here the primary winding is connected
in wye and the secondary winding is connected in delta.
Issue 19
Connections for Generator

Step up Transformers (GSU)
One of the factors that influence the

selection of transformer connection
is the flow of ground fault current
though the transformer. Connections
can either allow or block the flow of
ground fault currents between two
parts of the system connected via
transformer. One critical area requiring
careful attention is the selection of
transformer connection for GSUs.
Figure 15 shows the GSU connected

grounded-wye/grounded-wye. This
connection is not desirable because
the magnitude of ground fault flowing
in each winding is indeterminant
during a ground fault on either side
of the GSU. This connection makes it
difficult to determine proper settings
for ground protection relays.
If this GSU is of shell type design,

it will contain a tertiary winding.
Presence of tertiary winding will
complicate ground fault relay
protection even further. In short,
determination of current distribution
between the two grounded system is
difficult.
If the GSU is core type design, a

physical tertiary is not required. A core
type transformer by design creates
a fictitious delta tertiary. With the
connection as shown in Figure 15,
ground relaying becomes complicated
Figure 15. A GSU connected grounded-wye/grounded-wye whether it is shell or core type design.
Figure 16 shows the GSU connected

in delta on the high side and wye
grounded on the generator side.
This is not a desirable connection for
the GSU.
A ground fault between on the line

connecting GSU and transformer T1
will be cleared by breaker A. However,
the wye side of the transformer
will not see this fault and hence
breaker B will not trip. The grounded
conductor will remain connected to
the generator and hence will be live.
It is a safety issue and furthermore
if there is distribution circuit tapped
Photo: Shutterstock
off the line, the generator will supply

Figure 16. A GSU connected in delta on the high side and wye an ungrounded system. This is an
grounded on the generator side unacceptable situation.
HEARING FROM OUR
TECH TEAMS
One solution is to install a grounding

bank on the high side of GSU as
shown in Figure 17. This will provide
a path for the ground fault current
to flow through the grounding
transformer. This will enable tripping
of breaker B via relay applied in the
neutral of the grounding bank.
Figure 18 shows a desirable

connection. Ground faults in the
transmission line will be cleared by
brakers A and B. Ground faults on
the generator side will be cleared
by tripping breaker B via ground
relays applied at the generator.
The generator neutral is grounded. Figure 17. A grounding bank on the high side of GSU
The role of transformer

connection in rectification
Figure 19 shows an adjustable speed

drive system utilized in industrial
plants to power adjustable speed
motors. There is rectification followed
by inversion of DC current into
adjustable 60 Hz power to the motor.
Commonly used schemes are 6

pulse and 12 pulse. Figure 14 shows
a 12-pulse rectification using twelve
diodes/thyristors. The disadvantage
of cheaper option 6 pulse scheme Figure 18. A desirable connection for a GSU transformer
is two-fold. The DC output is not
smooth, and the rectification creates
significant harmonics that are
injected into the incoming AC power
supply. The two main harmonics that
create voltage and current distortions
are the 5th and the 7th harmonics.
The issue of DC current quality is

solved by using a more expensive
option of 12-pulse rectifier, which
uses 12 diodes/thyristors scheme.
The issue of harmonic distortion is
solved by introducing a 30-degree
phase shift between the two
secondary windings as shown in
Figure 19. Due to proper selection of
transformer connection, a 30-degree
phase shift is achieved resulting in
significant reduction in harmonics
injected into the incoming AC
power supply. Figure 19. An adjustable speed drive system
Issue 19
Photo: Shutterstock
DOBLE F8000
POWER SYSTEM
SIMULATORS
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DESIGNED FOR SUPERIOR FLEXIBILITY AND VALUE
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88 COMING
IN JUNE
Power Systems
Monitoring and
Diagnostics
While Transformer Technology will always be the heart
of our digital offerings, we realize that transformers do
not stand alone and for a system to be reliable, we must
consider all parts of that system. We begin addressing that
with our theme for the June digital edition which includes
Power Systems Monitoring and Diagnostics.
An array of subtopics will be included within this theme,

among them:
DGA MONITORS
DATA MANAGEMENT
FIBER OPTICS
SENSORS
Join our community, create brand recognition and

thought leadership. Present a case study, a product/
technology application, field experience, expert opinion
on a topic, comparison of methods and technologies,
and more.
If you have an idea for an article or content to share,

contact me at alan.ross@transformer-technology.com.
Alan Ross, Editor in Chief

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ISSUE 19

April 2022 transformer-technology.com ISSN 2642-2689

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Transformer Connections: Types

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ISSN 2642-2689 (Print)

Change can be challenging.

Also, the rapid increase in the use of monitoring

Change can be challenging. It usually is. But it

Simulating an asset’s physical or functional

There are now companies who have developed and

A digital twin is a digital DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGY the virtual

Software tool for

Test set digital twin Test set physical twin

Relay digital twin Relay physical twin

Software tool for

Validated relay files can be re-used in the substation

Validated test-set files can be re-used in the substation

Is the relay working well

Commissioning is normally the inefficient. To enter this been part of a

… I wish to have one

Software tool for

Test set digital twin Test set physical twin

Relay digital twin Relay physical twin

Software tool for

Software tool for

Test set digital twin Test set physical twin

Relay digital twin Relay physical twin

Software tool for

NO LATE FEES CHARGED

The review of statistics blatantly

Problem solving is a skill we are all taught from a very

As noted in the previous article,

suffers an electrical-induced injury who have sustained incurable third-

According to the Bureau of Labor

To put the severity of burns into when compared to higher voltage

The number one killer of IBEW

in higher voltage equipment due to program is designed with enough

Asset Management and

1. As much as 60% of failures & safety issues can