A wide-band, frequency-dependent five-terminal model is developed that represents one HVDC transformer unit in the French-English IFA2000 HVDC interconnection. Three such interconnected 1-ph units constitute one 3-ph transformer bank needed in 12-pulse conversion. The model is obtained via admittance frequency sweep measurements on the transformer’s terminals, including common-mode measurements to capture the high-impedance coupling to earth at lower frequencies. The data set is modified to reduce the magnetizing current to a realistic level by a novel eigenvalue scaling procedure. The final data set is subjected to modeling by a stable and passive rational model while utilizing a mode-revealing transformation to retain the accuracy of the small eigenvalues that are related to the high-impedance coupling to earth. The paper describes details related to the measurements and modeling steps as well as the many intermediate accuracy validations that were done. Also is described challenges in the measurements that resulted due to interference of the measurements by a nearby 400 kV overhead line. The model is applied in a time domain simulation of the complete HVDC link in normal operation where voltage waveforms resulting from line commutations are compared against those by a classical model with added stray capacitances.

Introduction

HVDC transformers are together with thyristor valves the fundamental components in any LCC-type HVDC converter. The protection of these transformers is therefore essential for the reliable operation of the HVDC link. Overvoltages due to switching events, lightning impulses and in-station flashovers on the AC side result in steep-fronted overvoltages that stress the transformer AC side insulation parts, and voltages are also transferred to the DC-side where they stress and interfere the thyristor components [1]. Conversely, line faults and lightning strokes to a DC overhead line may result in overvoltages that impose stresses on the transformer DC-side terminals. The protection of HVDC substation against overvoltages therefore requires insulation co-ordination studies to be performed to determine the appropriate location of surge arresters [1]. Insulation co-ordination studies requires the use of models with adequate accuracy up to several hundred kHz in order to represent the actual waveshapes of the overvoltages. The representation of the HVDC transformer is a main obstacle in such studies since frequency-dependent transformer models are in general not available. Therefore, simplified models are usually employed, often consisting of a 50 Hz model in combination with lumped capacitors.