Overview
IEC TR 60919-2:2008/AMD1:2015 is an official amendment to the international standard that addresses the performance of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems with line-commutated converters. This technical report focuses specifically on Part 2: Faults and switching aspects of HVDC systems, updating and refining guidelines, terminology, and operational recommendations. The amendment was prepared by IEC Technical Committee 22, Subcommittee 22F, which specializes in power electronics for electrical transmission and distribution.
By providing enhanced specifications and corrections related to fault detection, switching operations, transient overvoltages, and reactive power control, the document supports safer and more reliable HVDC system performance globally.
Key Topics
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Fault Types and Handling
The amendment elaborates on various fault scenarios affecting HVDC systems, including phase faults, pole short circuits, metallic return faults, and overhead line faults. It refines detection and protection methods, especially involving current flow and fault localization.
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Switching Procedures
Guidance on energization and de-energization of AC side equipment is clarified, emphasizing the correct disconnection of converter transformers while maintaining parallel connection of AC filters to minimize transients.
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Reactive Power Control and Switching
Updates language and procedures regarding reactive power control during faults, including the removal of outdated paragraphs related to reactive equipment switching, thus improving system stability and response times.
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Transient Overvoltages and Surge Protection
The document addresses transient overvoltages in filter banks and DC side switching surges, providing recommendations for the use of surge arresters and updated terminology to reflect practical field conditions.
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Harmonic Effects and Relay Immunity
Highlights the impact of harmonic voltages and currents during faults, noting the improved performance of digital type relays in preventing misoperations while cautioning about the limitations of older relay models.
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Updated Normative References
The amendment replaces earlier normative documents with updated references such as IEC TR 60919-1:2010 and IEC TR 60919-3:2009, ensuring alignment with the latest steady-state and technical specifications.
Applications
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HVDC Transmission System Design and Maintenance
Engineers and system designers can apply the guidance to enhance fault management and switching strategies, thereby improving system reliability and minimizing downtime during fault conditions.
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Protection System Development
The detailed fault scenarios and detection enhancements aid in the development of robust protection schemes for HVDC converters, including considerations for metallic return faults and surge protection.
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Operational Procedures for Utilities
Power utilities utilizing HVDC with line-commutated converters benefit from updated operational procedures on transformer energization and fault switching, contributing to safer and more efficient network management.
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Relay and Control System Manufacturers
Manufacturers of protection relays and control systems can utilize the document’s insights on harmonic immunity and control characteristics to design more resilient and accurate devices tailored for HVDC applications.
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Academic and Industry Research
Researchers studying HVDC systems and power electronics can reference this amendment for advanced understanding of fault dynamics and system switching behavior under realistic operational contingencies.
Related Standards
- IEC TR 60919-1:2010 – Performance of HVDC systems with line-commutated converters Part 1: Steady-state conditions
- IEC TR 60919-3:2009 – Performance of HVDC systems Part 3: Technical Specifications
- IEC/TS 60815-1:2008 – Selection and dimensioning of high-voltage insulators intended for use in polluted conditions – Part 1: Definitions, information, and general principles
- IEC Glossary and Electropedia – Comprehensive resources for terminology and definitions in electrotechnical standards
This amendment ensures that stakeholders involved in HVDC system operation, design, and maintenance are equipped with current, practical standards to manage faults and switching effectively, supporting the global modernization of electrical power transmission infrastructure.