Impact of the Short-Circuit Current Value on the Operation of Overhead Connections in High-Voltage Power Stations

Abstract

This paper focuses on determining the effects of short-circuit current values on the operation of high-voltage substations. The analyses performed focused on the dynamic and thermal effects on the short-circuit current for different input data configurations. The analyses of the dynamic effects of short-circuit current were performed in two ways. First, calculations were executed using the procedures contained in “IEC 60865-1:2012 Short-circuit currents, calculations of the effects of short-circuit currents. Part 1: Definitions and calculation methods”. Analytic calculations were accomplished for different values of the initial three-phase short-circuit current, the type of short circuit, the static tension force of the conductors, the stiffness of the structure and the methods of attaching the lashing chains. Secondly, the same analysis was performed using PRIMTECH 3D software. The connections were modeled in computer software, for which the calculations were implemented according to normative recommendations. After obtaining the results, an analysis was performed using the model based on the input data. Performing the analysis in two ways made it possible to compare the results with each other and develop conclusions. An analysis of the thermal effects of the short-circuit current was also provided. The results of the calculations showed that the choice of conductor cross sections according to the value of the initial short-circuit current was correct. Particular attention has been paid to rigid conductors and flexible conductors, which are directly affected by the short circuit and have an impact on the selection of the complete equipment for the high-voltage switchgear.