Dr.

Zoran Gaji, Product Management, March 2014

On-load Tap-changer Control

with RET670/RET650
ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 1

RET670 Voltage Control Function (VCTR)

On-Load Tap-Changer Introduction

Module 1: VCTR Function Overview, Simulation Model & Terminology

Module 2: ACT Configuration, Function Blocks

Module 3: VCTR Basic Philosophy

Module 4: Transformer Control

Single & parallel configuration

Automatic & manual control

Line drop compensation (LDC)

Load voltage adjustment (LVA)

Module 5: Transformer Voltage Regulation Modes

Circulating current

Master follower

Reverse reactance

RET670 Voltage Control Function (VCTR)

Module 6: Parallel group management

Module 7: Monitoring, alarms & blocking conditions

Module 8: Particular RET670 VCTR Features

Module 9: YLTC Tap Changer Function

Module 10: Built-in VCTR HMI Screen

Module 11: MicroSCADA for VCTR

Module 12: Advanced possibilities

Module 13: ATCC in RET650

On-Load Tap-Changer Introduction

The tap-changer alters the

power transformer turns ratio
in a number of predefined
steps and in that way
changes the secondary side
voltage.

Each step usually represents

a change in LV side no-load
voltage of approx. 0.5-1.7%.

Standard tap-changers offer

between 7 to 17 steps
(i.e. 15 to 35 positions).

On-Load Tap-Changer Introduction

Note that in practice taps are usually made on the

high voltage side (i.e. side with low current) in order
to minimize the current handling requirements of
the contacts

On-Load Tap-Changer Introduction

Practice is more
complicated because
Make before brake
principle must be used

OLTC must brake certain

amount of current at
certain voltage level

Typical switching time

around 50ms

Resistor design shown on

the figure patented in 1926

Latest designes use small

vacum bottles

On-Load Tap-Changer Introduction

The main purpose of the

automatic tap-changer
control (ATCC) for
power transformers with
on-load tap-changer
(OLTC) is to keep the
voltage on low voltage
(LV) side of the
transformer within a
preset deadband.

Module 1 VCTR Function Overview

VCTR is a function available within RET670

Transformer Protection & Control IED

VCTR is a function can also be order in REC670

Provides for manual and automatic control of

single and parallel transformer arrangements

Regulates secondary busbar voltage within a

pre-set deadband around the busbar set-point
value for all two-winding power transformers
connected to the busbar

VCTR function supports a range of different

voltage & current inputs for flexible integration
with existing instrument transformer and
protection systems

Phase-phase (L1-L2, L2-L3 or L3-L1)

Phase-ground (L1-N, L2-N or L3-N)

Positive sequence
Load

Module 1 VCTR Function Overview

If required HV CTs can be

substituted with LV CTs as
well

to other RET units

Load

Via 61850 Goose

Ubus

VCTR
VT ratio, PreFiltering & DFF

Measuring points for the

RET670 VCTR function
A/D Conversion, Scaling with CT &

OC Block

U<
U>
LDC & CC
Tap Position

BIM or MIM

Indication
Communic.

61850

for Parallel
Control

RET 670

Module 1 VCTR Function Overview

VCTR function offers automatic control for up to eight parallel

operating transformers (maximum of four per IED), using one of three
different voltage regulation methods for parallel transformers:

Reverse reactance (requires no communication exchange)

Master follower

Circulating current

VCTR function supports automatic control and supervised manual

control of OLTC operation from SCADA/Station/Panel/HMI level.

Application specific voltage control functions including line drop

compensation & load shedding by load voltage adjustment

Extensive power system monitoring functionality (maximum circulating

current, maximum load current, over and under voltage,
forward/reverse power, reverse OLTC action)

Extensive supervision functions for OLTC and VT (tap position, OLTC

command and response)

Module 1 Simulation Model Overview

Simulation model will provide for two two-winding power transformers,

operating in single or parallel mode

Single RET670 Transformer Protection IED configured with two

instances of the VCTR function

Two physical transformer models providing independent voltage and

current feedback to OLTC change to each IED.

Relay array providing 1-11 tap position, LED mimic

Physical tap change status returned as inputs to each IED

Substation configuration (CB and DES status) mapped to inputs on the

IED to enable dynamic reconfiguration and disconnection of the two
parallel transformers

Module 1 Terminology, Acronyms & Abbreviations

VCTR = voltage control

ATCC = automatic tap-change control

OLTC = on-load tap-changer

IED = intelligent electronic device

HMI = human-machine interface

LDC = line drop compensation

LVA = load voltage adjustment

CC = circulating current

MF = master follower

UB = busbar voltage

UL = load point voltage

IL = load current

Uset = set voltage (target voltage)

Module 2 VCTR Function Blocks versus Logical Nodes

Four standard IEC61850 function blocks or logical

nodes fulfil the VCTR function

TR1ATCC_90 Automatic single

TR8ATCC_90 Automatic parallel

VCTRRCV To recive remote GOOSE comms

TCMYLTC_84 OLTC BCD, BIN, Gray & mA OLTC

position

TCLYLTC_84 OLTC direct signal inputs

YLTC can be implemented independently of the ATCC

for basic manual tap change control, or connected to
separate function or device providing a form of AVR
function (connect GRP_OFF signal to YLTCIN)

However, a combination of ATCC and YLTC provides

for integrated automatic and manual control of OLTC

VCTRRCV required for communication as well

Module 2 VCTR Function Blocks

Grouped analogue input

signals for transformer
W1/W2 current and
W2 bus voltage

Manual / Auto, indication

Binary inputs for Load

Voltage Adjustment
command

Binary outputs related to

hunting detection 24
hours, 1 hour and window
based
UB outside deadband, indication

Module 2 VCTR Function Blocks

Grouped analogue input
signals for transformer
W1/W2 current and
secondary bus voltage.
Use 8ms prepreocessing
blcoks

Binary inputs for Load

Voltage Adjustment
command

Range of VCTR outputs

related to alarm or
blocking states for current,
voltage & power conditions

Single / Parallel, indication

Binary inputs for inclusion

of reactive compensation
in calculation of Icc
Binary inputs for dynamic
inclusions of 1 to 8
transformers in the parallel
group

Master follower indications

Master selection
Grouped signals for
horizontal communication
between instances of
VCTR function

Set of Binary outputs

declaring the current
parallel transformer group
membership

Module 2 VCTR Function Blocks

VCTR GOOSE receive function block

One such required for each remote located (i.e. not in the same IED)
TR8ATCC function block

Note that VCTR send function block do not exist. It is incorporated directly
on ATCC function block, output signal ATCCOUT

Module 2 YLTC Function Blocks

Raise / Lower commands

Boolean inputs for TCiP
and error signals
Binary inputs for actual tap
position of OLTC, based
on binary, gray or BCD
code

Boolean inputs for actual

tap position of OLTC, tap
range up to 32 positions
accounted for

Module 2 VCTR Function Blocks

All these blocks are interconnected together in order to obtain working

VCTR functionality. ABB provides with step-by-step guide how to configure
different applications

Note the close loop connection between ATCC and YLTC blocks:

from ATCCOUT to YLTCIN

from YLTCOUT to YLTCIN

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 18

Module 2 VCTR Base settings

Operation On/Off

I1Base = HV winding rated phase current

I2Base = LV winding rated phase current

UBase = LV winding rated ph-ph voltage

MeasMode = which measured quantity is used

Module 2 OLTC Position reading

VCTR functionality can be made smarter if OLTC position is

monitored

YLTC/ATCC function blocks can work without this information,

but most of the supervision features will be disabled

More info given in Module 9

10

Module 3 VCTR Basic Philosophy

Voltage setpoints & deadbands

Tap change timing

OLTC raise & lower

Module 3 Voltage setpoint & deadbands

Automatic control based on measured voltage magnitude at the bus

where single of parallel transformers are connected
Security Range
Auto mode
is Blocked

Lower Cmd
is Blocked

Ublock

Raise Cmd

Umin

U1

U
U
Uin Uin
Uset

Lower Cmd Fast Lower Cmd (settable option)

Raise Cmd is Blocked

U2

Umax

Voltage Magnitude

Voltage setpoint and deadband is defined by six settings that are

based on % of UBase

11

Module 3 Voltage setpoint & deadbands

Secondary busbar voltage UB is measured

The difference between UB and Uset is calculated and

compared against UDeadband (U)

UDeadband is typically set at 70% OLTC voltage

step

While (UB Uset) > UDeadband, timers to raise or

lower the OLTC will be active. If this condition
remains until the end of the time delay, a raise or
lower command will be issued to the OLTC

Reset of the timers will occur once (UB Uset) <

UDeadbandInner

Abnormal conditions can arise where UB violates

boundary conditions nominated by Umax, Umin &
UBlk. These voltage conditions are discussed in
Module 7

Module 3 Voltage setpoint & deadbands

12

Module 3 Timing issues

Two separate time characteristics can be defined for

delay in tap change once UDeadband has been
exceeded: definite time or inverse time

Tap change delay timers can be separately set for

first (i.e. t1 time) and subsequent (i.e. t2 time)
commands (which shall be in the same direction in
the same tap cycle)

Time [sec]

Absolute voltage deviation

Inverse Time Delay

180
160

DA = UB - Uset

140

Relative voltage deviation

120

D=

100

DA
U

80
60

t1delay =

40
20
0

t1set
D

also require
0

6
8
10 12 14 16
Relative Voltage Deviation D

18

20

t1delay > tmin

Module 3 Timing issues

13

Module 3 Raise & Lower Commands

RAISE / LOWER output signals located on YLTC block

RAISE = Raise voltage command (i.e. not tap)

LOWER = Lower voltage command (i.e. not tap)

For most transformers Raise Voltage = Raise Tap

but there is exceptions to this rule

Module 4 Tap-changer Control Basics

Manual or Automatic Control Mode

Single or Parallel Operating Mode

Line Drop Compensation (LDC)

Load Voltage Adjustment (LVA)

14

Module 4 Manual or Automatic Control Mode

Manual or automatic control mode available with VCTR function

Automatic mode automatically regulates the voltage against the

setpoint, making adjustments for LVA, LDC, and also checking for
blocking conditions

Manual control from built-in HMI/Local Switches/Station/Remote

Manual control is highly supervised, and permitted when busbar

voltage and current are in specified range and OLTC functioning
correctly

Module 4 Manual Control Place Selection

Permitted Source To Operate (PSTO)
Local panel
switch
positions

PSTO value

AllPSTOValid

0 Off

--

Not possible to operate

1 = Local

Priority

Local panel

1 = Local

No Priority

Local or remote level

without any priority

2 = Remote

Priority

Remote level

2 = Remote

No Priority

Local or remote level

without any priority

3 = Faulty

--

Not possible to operate

(parrameter in
PST for QCBAY)

Possible locations
that shall be able to
operate

Manual control position is selected via PSTO input into the ATCC
function block

After any IED restart ATCC function goes into manual mode per
default

If PSTO=0 ATCC function will not accept any external

inputs/commands (e.g. Master, Follower, Raise, Lower)

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 30

15

Module 4 Manual Control Place Selection

PSTO value via Apparatus Control:

Internal LR-Switch

External LR-Switch

PSTO value transferred to ATCC and

other functions in Bay 1

From BI

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 31

Module 4 Manual Control Place Selection

Via Fixed Signal:

Via Bool16ToInt:

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 32

16

Module 4 Single or Parallel Operating Mode

Single Operating Mode

Single control can be defined by PST settings and ACT

configuration for fixed single mode transformer control
or, where a parallel group could exist, defined through
Microscada or IED local HMI command

Single control provides for voltage regulation based on

measured quantities (UB, IL etc) for that transformer in
isolation

A transformer can operate in single mode while being

physically connected in parallel, however, this
introduces unstable conditions, high circulating current
and poor voltage regulation.

Module 4 Single or Parallel Operating Mode

Parallel Operating Mode when at least two

transformers operate in parallel

Extra features are available in RET670

VCTR function calculates true busbar voltage calculated as the average value of all measured
voltages in the group internally within the IED

VT supervision and alarm for parallel voltage inputs

VCTR is able to use the average of all Uset values within

the group as the common set point

All these features are described in Module 8

17

Module 4 Line Drop Compensation (LDC)

Used to control voltage at a point closer to the load

center

UL voltage is calculated vectorially - voltage UL is now

used by VCTR for voltage control instead of voltage UB

UB must remain within the range [Umin, Umax] for LDC to

be operational if UB falls outside this range, LDC will
be stopped until UB comes back within range

Normal operating restriction requires that UL be UB (if

UL > UB, then UB will be used for voltage control)
however, if wish to allow for a capacitive load condition,
can remove this restriction by the setting provided

IL

RL
UB

XL
UC

Load

Im

UB

jXL IL

UC

Re
R LI L

IL

Module 4 Line Drop Compensation (LDC)

LDC function relies on the specification of equivalent impedance to

load centre (RL + jXL)

Vectors UB & IL are measured, and the equivalent load voltage UL is

derived taking into account the voltage drop due to the equivalent load
impedance

Rline and Xline are set in primary ohms

(on side which is regulated by ATCC)

LDC for capacitive power factor can be prohibited in order to prevent

UL to bi bigger than UB

18

Module 4 Load Voltage Adjustment (LVA)

Load voltage adjustment uses the principle that load is proportional to

voltage squared (i.e. P~U2 for most resistive loads).

Small reductions in load voltage through modification of Uset can

achieve some level of load shedding

Two mechanisms for LVA are available in the VCTR function

Constant load voltage adjustment using four different voltage change

factors (% UB) defined as PST parameters to offset Uset value

Automatic load voltage reduction based on a voltage reduction/increase

characteristic defined by a load correction factor (VRAuto)

Constant LVA is activated by pulsed inputs to the ATCC function

Extent of voltage set point change for automatic LVA is dependent on

actual transformer loading

With positive autoamtic LVA coefficent operation becomes simirar

to LDC (Z-type LDC in Reinhausen)

Module 4 Load Voltage Adjustment

Voltage Corr. [%]

Automatic Voltage Correction

9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
-1
-2
-3
-4
-5
-6
-7
-8
-9

0,2

0,4

0,6

0,8

Current [p.u.]

Set for rated load

19

Module 4 Load Voltage Adjustment

Load voltage adjustments can also be reset by pulsed input to the

IED from MicroSCADA or the local HMI

VRAuto is set as voltage change at rated load

VRAuto can be also used as simplified LDC

By using LVA commands up to five different Uset values can be

achived

Module 5 Voltage Regulation Methods for parallell transformers

Reverse reactance

Master follower

Circulating current

20

Module 5 Reverse Reactance principle

Simplest, and least preferred, method for parallel

control of power transformers

Achieved by using the LDC function, but with a negative

value for XL

Requires no communication or exchange of binary

signals between the transformer functions or devices

The performance of this method is sensitive to

changing power factor of the load current the best
performance is obtained when the power factor is equal
to the design power factor

Operation of Line Drop Compensation (LDC) is also

compromised because total load current across parallel
group is not known
Im
UC
UB

RLIL
-jXLIL

Re

IL

Module 5 Master Follower Principle

Applied as a method for control of parallel transformers,

with the objective of having each transformer working on
the same tap position

Possible to define fix offset between transformers

The objective of master follower is to maintain each

transformer at the same no load secondary voltage.

Master follower is suitable for transformers with the

same tap range and ratings

Selection of the master is defined by the user via input

ForceMaster in configuration

Master Follower also relys on communication between

IEDs to send commands or tap position indications from
master to followers

Two operating modes available:

Follow-Command and Follow-Tap

Supervisions within the function that only one master

exists and that followers are not out of step is included.

21

Module 5 Master Selection Principle

ATCC inputs operate on a positive flank of the input

signal

Sometimes a issue with IED restart

Solution: use one OR gate with higher execution

number in front of ATCC function block

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 43

Module 5 Master Follower PST Parameters

Fixed tap
position offset
from the
Master

22

Module 5 Master Follower PST Parameters

Select here to use either:

Follow Command or

Follow Tap principle

Module 5 Circulating Current Principle

Voltage regulation principle based on regulating to

Uset while minimizing circulating current (Icc)
magnitude in each transformer

Circulating current occurs due to unequal transformer

load voltages and tap position

Circulating current is nearly purely reactive due to the

inductive nature of transformer short circuit
impedances

Minimising circulating current will optimize reactive

power flow, decrease winding and core losses &
reduce tap changer wear

Circulating current methods rely on communication of

measured transformer secondary busbar voltage and
load current between each IED via direct ACT
configuration in one IED or Goose messaging
between multiple IEDs

23

Module 5 Circulating Current

UT1, UT2 LV side no load voltages of

transformers T1 and T2 respectively

Higher

tap position higher no load

voltage

Icc_T2 UT2

UT1

Icc_T2

T2 <=> ZT1

Circulating current caused by unequal T1

LV side no load voltages (unequal tap
positions)

IT1

ZT2

Icc_T1

IT2

Icc_T1
IT1

UB
with higher no load
voltage (higher tap position) will
produce circulating current, which
adds to its share of IL, while the
transformer with lower no load voltage UL
(lower tap position) will receive
circulating current, which subtracts
from its share of IL

IT2

Transformer

UB

IL

IL

Load

UL

Load

Module 5 Circulating Current

Individual

transformer currents are

summed vectorially to produce total load
current

k
I j I1 I 2 I3 ... I k
j 1

The

circulating current component

(imaginary) for each transformer is derived
by calculating the difference between the
measured transformer current and the
component of load current that should be
passing through the transformer based on
factor Ki (admittance ratio)

Ici ImI i K i I L

measured bus voltage adjustment factor

is calculated called UCi, based on
compensating factor ci, circulating current
(ICi) and transformer impedance Zi.

ci

Comp I Z
i ci i

U1
~ +

Z1

I1

U2
~ +

Z2

I2

U3
~ +

Z3

I3

U4
~ +

Z4

I4

Sec.trafo side

uB

I load

Z load

Load
side

The measured bus voltage is then

adjusted for circulating current
effect and used for regulation
against setpoint. In this way, high
circulating current for a specific
transformer will have the effect of
increasing the adjusted bus voltage,
causing a reduction in tap position
(and vice versa)

U Bci U Bi Uci

24

Module 5 Circulating Current

Calculation example with two parallel transformer model,
including vector relationships

UT1

CompT1 * Icc_T1 * XT1

UBM
UT2

IL

Icc_T2

IT1

T1

IT2

T2
Icc_T1

IT1

2*Udeadband

IT2

UB

IL

CompT2 * Icc_T2 * XT2

Icc_T2
T2 Receives Cir_Curr

Icc_T1
T1 Produces Cir_Curr

IL = IT1 + IT2
Icc_T1 = Im {IT1- (ZT2/(ZT1+ZT2)) * IL}

UL

Load

Icc_T2 = Im {IT2- (ZT1/(ZT1+ZT2)) * IL}

UBM = (UB_T1 + UB_T2)/2 ;
UBM is true busbar voltage

Module 5 Circulating Current PST Parameters

Setting which
governs the CC
influence on the
ATCC control

25

Module 5 Circulating Current

Reactive Compensation

VCTR function includes the possibility of adjusting

circulating current calculation for the effects of a
maximum of three items of reactive plant connected to
the LV side or tertiary transformer winding

Three separate reactive elements can be accounted for

in the circulating current calculation, with capacitor bank
rating set as a PST parameter

Status of capacitor bank is monitored through CB

position, which will provide for an input to the VCTR
function block when CB is closed

Additional reactive power input at secondary bus is

included in ICC calculations

Module 5 Circulating Current

Capacitive Compensation Settings for up to three banks

Capacitors/Reactors can be connected to the tertiary winding as well

Set MVAr value shall be positive for a capacitor bank

26

Module 5 Parallel Control PST Parameters

Parallel control has its own setting part in PST which

we will have been talking about, but

Module 5 Parallel Control & PST General Settings

Set transformer Id (i.e. T1, T2, , T8) for parallel control

Set transformer impedance in primary ohms on the side

were regulation is done (important for CC calculation)

Set operation time delays for followers in the group

Set type of MF control

27

Module 6 Parallel Group management

Parallel group member (TnRXOP)

Included in parallel group (TnINCLD)

Transformer disconnection (TnDISC)

Note that these is done in the same way for either

MF or CC control

Module 6 TnRXOP & TnINCLD

Parallel grouping of transformers is governed by transformer group

membership (TnRXOP) in the PST & inclusion of the transformer in the
group based on substation configuration (TnINCLD).

Within the PST configuration, the parallel group members are defined
by setting TnRXOP (n = 1..4) to On or Off. This effectively defines all
transformers which can operate in parallel in the station.

The following rules are applicable for PST configuration.

If terminal T1 and T2 could be connected in a parallel group, T1RXOP shall

be set to On in ATC2 and T2RXOP shall be set to On in ATC1.

If T1 - T3 could be connected in a parallel group, T1RXOP and T2RXOP

shall be set to On in ATC3, T2RXOP and T3RXOP to On in ATC1 and so
on.

Note! The parameter corresponding to the own transformer must be

set to Off.

T1RXOP should thus not be set to On in terminal T1, T2RXOP not in

terminal T2 etc.

28

Module 6 TnRXOP Settings in PST

Example setting for T1 when only T1 and T2 exist in

the station

Module 6 TnRXOP & TnINCLD

TnINCLD (n = 1..8) inputs to the VCTR function are

used to define the dynamic grouping of transformers
based on actual configuration of HV circuit breakers
and isolators

For a simple substation topology, logic can be

defined in the ACT configuration to provide the
dynamic parallel configuration.

Very large and complex substation topologies, such

as double bus layouts with isolator selectability may
require a mimic to be implemented in a bay control
module such as REC670 with outputs wired to the
RET670 for the transformer state and parallel group
inputs TnINCLD

29

Module 6 TnINCLD Managment in ACT

Note that this is applicable

for either MF or CC control

Transformer Disconnected Input

ACT logic for dynamic

inclusions of T1 to T8
transformers in the parallel
group

Set of Binary outputs

declaring back the current
parallel transformer group
membership

Module 6 Transformer Disconnected Input

Transformer disconnection occurs when the

transformer LV circuit breaker is in an open position.

A disconnection input is available for each VCTR

function, which initiates the exclusion of the
transformer from the parallel group, and recalculation
of average busbar voltage and average voltage
setpoint for the new parallel group

In a way it overrides status of TnINCLD input

Disconnection also places the particular transformer

in single control mode, and depending on PST
parameters, may result in the initiation of Homing
mode discussed in Module 8

30

Module 6 Possibilities for ATCC Implementation

ATCC functionality for each transformer is integrated

in the transformer protection IED. All power
transformer protection functions like 87T, 87N, 50/51,
50N/51N, 49 as well as OLTC control function 90 are
integrated into a single device. All required
information for either master-follower of circulating
current operating modes are communicated between
the participating IEDs using the IEC 61850-8-1
protocol. Thus, exchange of all analog and binary
data for ATCC operation is made by using IEC 61850
GOOSE messages

ATCC functionality for all transformers in the station

is integrated in a single IED which is only used for
parallel OLTC control. Such solution eliminates any
need for external communication but it requires CT
and VT wiring from all transformers to be brought to a
common location. Maximum of four transformers can
be controlled from one IED.

Module 6 Possibilities for ATCC Implementation

T1

T2

Each transformer RET670 IED integrates the following functionality:

87T, 87N, 50/51, 50N/51N, 49 & 90
GOOSE used for ATCC IED-to-IED communication

31

Module 6 Possibilities for ATCC Implementation

Control for four 150/66kV transformers from one RET670

with Hot Standby functionality

Inter IED comm. between voltage control functions

Complete exchange of voltage control function data, analog as well as

binary, is made by GOOSE messages when two or more IEDs are used

32

Module 7 Power system monitoring, alarms & blocking

Alarm or block condition?

Setting parameters

Voltage conditions

Current conditions

Command and OLTC errors

Tap changer reversed action

Module 7 Alarm or block condition?

The VCTR function provides for extensive monitoring

of primary system condition, OLTC behavior and
VCTR function behavior

The RET670 implementation of the VCTR function

includes significantly more flexibility in nominating
whether particular conditions produce an alarm,
automatic block or total block (automatic & manual
block)

The user can exploit this capability to tailor the VCTR

function response to their specific application, but
they must ensure that PST parameters are defined to
achieve the required alarm or blocking output

Selection of alarm or blocking response is achieved

through the PST settings as shown on next slide

33

Module 7 Alarm or block condition?

Circulating current OC block

Self-reset

Command Error

Manual reset required

Phase OC block

Self-reset

MF out of step block

Manual reset required

Ubus>Umax partial block

Self-reset

Reversed action block

Self-reset

Tap changer block

Manual reset required

Tap position block

Self-reset or Manual reset

Ubus<Ublock block

Self-reset

Ubus<Umin partial block

Self-reset

Alarm = only alarm is given function continius with normal operation

Auto Block = automatic mode blocked, manual commands possible
Auto&Man Block = both automatic & manual commands blcoked

Module 7 Error condition resetting

Self-reset ones will reset by itself when the operating

conditions are not longer fulfilled

Other error conditions can be reset via the input

RESETERR on the YLTC function block

Alternatively by changing control mode of TR1ATCC

or TR8ATCC function to Manual and then back to
Automatic

34

Module 7 Over Voltage Blocking Condition

Security Range
Auto mode
is Blocked

Lower Cmd
is Blocked

Ublock

Raise Cmd

Umin

U1

U
U
Uin Uin
Uset

Lower Cmd Fast Lower Cmd (settable option)

Raise Cmd is Blocked

U2

Umax

Voltage Magnitude

Overvoltage

Defined by PST Voltage parameter Umax, typically set at 110% of rated

secondary bus voltage UB

Overvoltage condition will result in a partial block state (OVPartBl) that

prevents further increases in tap position that exacerbate the overvoltage
condition

The partial blocking state can be set within the PST to initiate an alarm,
block automatic tap changes or block both automatic & manual tap change
control

Fast step down (FSD) can be enabled, that permits for fast lowering of tap
position to relieve overvoltage condition (i.e. when UB>Umax)

Module 7 Over- and Under-Voltage Condition Settings

35

Module 7 Fast step down (FSD) settings

FSD can be switched On/Off

Separate time delay can be set for this condition

Module 7 Under Voltage Blocking Conditions

Security Range
Auto mode
is Blocked

Lower Cmd
is Blocked

Ublock

Raise Cmd

Umin

U1

U
U
Uin Uin
Uset

Lower Cmd Fast Lower Cmd (settable option)

Raise Cmd is Blocked

U2

Umax

Voltage Magnitude

Undervoltage

Defined by PST Voltage parameter Umin, typically set at 80% of

rated secondary bus voltage UB

Undervoltage condition will result in a partial block state (UVPartBl)

that prevents further voltage reductions

The partial blocking state can be set within the PST to initiate an
alarm, block automatic tap changes or block both automatic &
manual tap change control

A further undervoltage boundary Ublock is also defined as a PST

parameter, typically 70% of rated bus voltage, where blocking of
tap changer in both directions in automatic mode shall occur.

Influence of these two UV levels is settable

36

Module 7 Over-Current blocking condition

Overcurrent blocking

Transformer HV current is monitored and compared

against setting Iblock, which has typical value of 150%
of rated primary current

Overcurrent conditions can result in alarm output,

automatic blocking or total blocking, depending on PST
parameter. Total blocking is strongly recommended.

Module 7 Circulating-Current blocking condition

High circulating current

High circulating current monitoring can be enabled by the

user through activation of PST parameters

Circulating current magnitudes that exceed a PST

parameter for CircCurrLimit will result in an alarm or
blocking condition

Can be used in either MF or CC operating mode

Give time to ATCC system to achieve stable condition !!!

37

Module 7 Command Error

Each VCTR function permits for monitoring of the

OLTC and the execution of commands initiated by
the VCTR function when OLTC position is available.

This error will be set if after the given command the

tap changer position does not change one step in the
correct direction within the time given by the setting
tTCTimeout (or when TCinProgress signal resets)

The output CMDERRAL on TCMYLTC or TCLYLTC

and TOTBLK or output AUTOBLK on TR1ATCC or
TR8ATCC will be activated depending on the actual
parameter setting.

Module 7 Tap-changer Error

This blocking condition will be active if the

TCINPROG input has not reset when the tTCTimeout
timer has timed out.

The outputs TCERRAL and TOTBLK or AUTOBLK of

TRnATCC will be activated depending on the actual
parameter setting.

For a correct operation the TCINPROG shall appear

during the URAISE/ULOWER output pulse and
disappear before the tTCTimeout time has elapsed.

Each VCTR function permits for monitoring of the

OLTC and the execution of commands initiated by
the VCTR function when OLTC position is available

38

Module 7 Tap position Error #1

This blocking condition will be active when either:

1. The tap changer reaching an end position (i.e. one

of the extreme positions according to the setting
parameters LowVoltTapand HighVoltTap has been
reached.

When the tap changer reaches one of these two

positions further commands in the corresponding
direction will be blocked. Effectively this will then be a
partial block if Auto Block or Auto&Man Block is set.
The outputs POSERRAL and LOPOSAL or
HIPOSAL will be activated.

Module 7 Tap position Error #2

2. Tap Position reading Error which in turn can be caused

by one of the following conditions:

Tap position is out of range that is, the indicated position is above or
below the end positions.

The tap changer indicates that it has changed more than one position
on a single raise or lower command.

The tap position reading shows a BCD code error (unaccepted

combination) or a parity fault.

The reading of tap position shows a mA value that is out of the mArange. Supervision of the input signal for MIM is made by setting the
MIM parameters I_Max and I_Min to desired values, for example, I_Max
= 20mA and I_Min = 4mA.

Very low or negative mA-values.

The outputs POSERRAL and AUTOBLK will be set.

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 78

39

Module 7 Tap Changer Reversed Action

Tap changer operation under voltage instability conditions makes it

more difficult for the power system to recover under these conditions,
when the voltage starts to drop, a raise command can give a reversed
result, i.e. a lowering of the busbar voltage

This reversed action can be detected and used to block the VCTR for
preset time

Requirements for reversed action detection

Iload > 95% of Irated (settable current level)

for two consecutive raise commands, the measured busbar

voltage must have a lower value than its previous value

once reversed action has been detected, VCTR automatic

control will be blocked for the period of time set on the provided
setting parameter

Module 7 Tap Changer Reversed Action settings

40

Module 7 Master Follower blocking condition

Supervisions within the

function that only one
master exists and that
followers are not out of
step is included

Module 7 Forcing Total or Auto block

Total block

A PST parameter can be set for each voltage control function to achieve a
total block condition

Total block conditions prevent automatic voltage regulation and manual

voltage regulation via MicroSCADA or IED HMI

Total block will result in Auto block being applied to all parallel transformers
in group

Auto block

A PST parameter can be set for each voltage control function to achieve an
automatic block condition, which is isolated to that voltage control function
only

An automatic block prevents automatic tap change initiated by the voltage

control function from operating, but permits for the operator to raise or
lower tap position manually.

Can be used for example during OLTC maintenance

41

Module 7 Forcing Total or Auto block

Same feature is available in Configuration via two dedicated inputs:

TOTAL BLOCK

AUTO BLOCK

Module 8 Particular RET670 VCTR Features

Average Busbar voltage (in parallel operation mode only)

Average Uset value (in parallel operation mode only)

VT supervision (in parallel operation mode only)

Adaption mode (in parallel operation mode only)

Homing mode (in parallel operation mode only)

Simultaneous tapping (in parallel operation mode only)

Hunting detection

Power flow direction

Counters

42

Module 8 Average Busbar voltage

For parallel operation in the CC mode average busbar voltage among all
members in the parallel group is used

This is done in order to ensure that stable operation of the control scheme is
obtained for all operating scenarios in the station

This feature can not be disabled by the end user

This average busbar voltage value is available as a service value

Module 8 Average Uset value

For parallel operation in the CC mode it is of outmost importance that all

members of the group has the same target voltage Uset

If the target voltages are not the same unstable operation of the control
scheme can be expected

In order to ensure that stable operation of the control scheme is obtained for all
operating scenarios in the station it is possible to force the ATCC scheme to
use average Uset value among all members in the group

This feature must be enabled in the PST

This average set point voltage value is available as a service value

43

Module 8 Average Uset value

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 87

Module 8 VT Supervision

Average busbar voltage is used for parallel regulation

Therfore measured busbar volatge by one IED can be compared to this

average value

If any big deviation exist, alarm is given as output VTALARM on TR8ATCC

function block

Required magnitude difference and time delay values are set in PST

For example this feature can be used to detect:

Failure in CVT individual capacitive elements

(typically in transmission applications)

Rusting of HV fuse holders of the VT

(typically in distribution applications)

44

Module 8 VT Supervision

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 89

Module 8 Adaption mode for CC operation

When one voltage control in a CC based parallel group is moved to manual

mode, any manual tap change command to that transformer can be followed
by rest of the group in order to avoid high circulating current

If this is desired behavior all transformers in the parallel group must have
Adaption mode set to On in PST

Note: this is a change from the VCTR implementation in the RET521 where
Adaption was an assumed functionality (i.e. permanently enabled)

The parallel group adapting to the manual tap command in one transformer is
actually based on the level of circulating current generated by this tapping. If
the magnitude of the circulating current voltage adjustment factor Uci exceeds
the deadband voltage setting U, an appropriate raise or lower command will
be issued. Thus for typical settings the rest of the group will follow transformer
which is in manual control.

Such operating condition is indicated by activating output ADAPT on

TR8ATCC function block

45

Module 8 Adaption mode for MF operation

When master in a MF based parallel group is moved to manual mode, any

manual tap change command to the Master can be followed by all followers in
the group to avoid high circulating current

If this is desired behavior all transformers in the parallel group (including

master) must have Adaption mode set to On in PST

Note that such behavior is NOT applicable for the Follower. If any follower is
set to Manual mode any manual commands will only tap that particular
follower transformer.

Module 8 Adaption mode

46

Module 8 Homing mode

Homing mode applies when a utility may want to retain a spare standby
transformer that can be immediately connected to the busbar and included in
the parallel control function because OLTC position is synchronised

Homing facility can be applied to one or more transformers with LV circuit

breaker open, which are nominated as part of the parallel transformer group
via TnINCLD inputs

Tap position on the disconnected transformer/s is maintained so that its open

circuit secondary terminal voltage follows the average setpoint voltage of the
connected parallel group

A PST parameter is offered to enable Homing (OperHoming), and tap change

for the standby transformer/s will occur in line with the time delays specified for
the transformer

If OperHoming is set to On for each transformer in the parallel group,

disconnection through opening of the LV circuit breaker will automatically
initiate Homing mode

Note that LV VT must be located on cable side of the transformer LV CB

(i.e. busbar VTs can not be used when Homing feature is required)

Module 8 Homing mode

Homing mode can be set On/Off by the end user

47

Module 8 Simultaneous Tapping

Feature is designed to ensure that simultaneous tapping of

two or more transformers in the CC operated parallel group
is prohibited

Can be important for old transformers with long tapping

time (e.g. > 20s)

Actually sequential tapping within the group is ensured

Note that timing is affected as well:

first transformer taps with time t1

second and consecutive transformers tap with time t2

next transformer timing only starts when the previous

transformer tap-changer in progress signal resets

Module 8 Simultaneous Tapping

Simultaneous Tapping can be set On/Off by the end user

48

Module 8 Hunting detection

Hunting is an abnormal number of lower/raise

commands within a predefined period of time, due to
narrow deadband voltage setting or excessively high
compensation factor for circulating current voltage
regulation

General hunting detection monitors the total number

of tap change commands in any direction during the
previous day and previous hour, and is active in
either automatic or manual mode

Sliding window hunting detection monitors the

number of successive commands in opposite
directions (Raise-Lower-Raise) that occur within a
user pre-defined time window

Module 8 Hunting detection

WINHUNT is set when 4 successive taps in opposite direction with in time window
Raise
Lower

WINHUNT

WINHUNT is reset when less than 4 successive taps in opposite direction with in time window
Raise
Lower

WINHUNT

WINHUNT is reset when 2 successive taps in same direction

Raise
Lower

WINHUNT

WINHUNT is set and time window is sliding when more than 4 successive taps in opposite direction with in time window
Raise
Lower

WINHUNT

49

Module 8 Hunting detection settings

Module 8 Power Flow Monitoring

Traditional OLTC type of control

assumes unidirectional power
flow through the transformer
(i.e. from HV to LV side)
P/Q monitoring

Operate region

Preverse

P & Q are available as a service

values from the ATCC function

Qforward

Non-operate
region

Possible to detect reversed active

power flow and block OLTC
control, or change active setting
group
Possible to detect excessive
reactive power flow and
temporarily block OLTC to give
downstream LV shunt capacitors
chance to operate first

Pforward
P

Qreverse
P> Pforward
P< Preverse
Q> Qforward
Q< Qreverse

>1
>1

>1

50

Module 8 Power Flow Monitoring

Each of the four setting levels has separate binary output on the
ATCC function block

P and Q has positive value when transformer supplies both of them

to the load

Module 8 OLTC No of Operations and Contact Life Counter

VCTR function counts the total number of OLTC operations from

a specific date

Contact life supervision is also available, based on consideration

of the number of remaining operations at rated load.

Counter values are given as service values from the function

51

Module 9 YLTC Tap Changer Function

YLTC function block is designed to provide OLTC

commands and supervision

Tap change position errors, command errors & tap

change state are monitored by this function block,
and fed back to the ATCC function block via grouped
output YLTC_OUT

User must define a number of parameters for the

configuration & response of the OLTC

OLTC tap range

OLTC output (eg. 4-20mA)

Timing required for a tap change response on issue of

a raise/lower

Duration of pulse require to tap changer for initiation of

raise/lower

OLTC operations and wear monitoring

Module 9 YLTC Tap Changer Function

VCTR functionality can be made smarter if OLTC position is

monitored

YLTC/ATCC function blocks can work without this information,

but most of the supervision features will be disabled

52

Module 9 YLTC Tap Changer Function

Other tap-changer related settings

Important Setting. It must be

On in order to issue
commands from VCTR to the
tap-changer mechanism!

Module 9 Tap-changer in progress signal

Tap-changer in progress signal can be connected to

the YLTC function block

In such case as soon as this binary signal resets the

new tap-changer position shall be indicated to the IED

Sometimes in practice a short (e.g. 2s) drop of timer is

required on this binary signal in order to prevent
problem during short resting (e.g. for middle tap for
example)

If this signal is not present new position will be

checked after time defined by parameter tTCTimeout

Note as well that t2 timer will not start until

either tap-changer in progress signal has reset
or set tTCTimeout time has timed-out

53

Module 10 Built-in HMI

Dedicated HMI screen for ATCC:

Single control:

MainMenu/Control/Commands/TransformerVoltageControl/VCS1

Parallel control:

MainMenu/Control/Commands/TransformerVoltageControl/VCP1

Module 10 Single Control

Single
Bus Voltage
shown
automatically

All important quantities for

voltage control are
available on one HMI
screen

Good tool for testing,

commissioning and
operation of ATCC

Possible to:

change Auto/Manual

give Raise command

give Lower command

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 108

54

Module 10 Parallel Control CC

Parallel
Bus Voltage
shown
automatically

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 109

Module 10 Parallel Control MF

Parallel
Bus Voltage
shown
automatically

ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 110

55

Module 11 MicroSCADA for VCTR

Standard dialogue box for basic

transformer control functions from
MicroSCADA

Extended dialogue box for basic

transformer control functions from
MicroSCADA indicating voltage
regulation and control mode

Module 11 MicroSCADA for VCTR

Circulating current tab indicating

parallel group, parallel blocking if
engaged & adjusted voltage
regulation for circulating current

Master follower tab indicating

parallel transformer group,
designated master & master
follower mode. Ability to set
transformer to master or follower
included via this display

56

Module 11 MicroSCADA for VCTR

Load voltage adjustment tab

indicating voltage measured and
setpoint voltage values. LVA
constants can be selected and
reset via this interface

Operation Counter tab indicating

total number of OLTC operations
& remaining life measure for
OLTC based on PST
parameters and remaining life
equation

Module 11 MicroSCADA for VCTR

57

Module 12 400kV Voltage Profile on 2003-09-23

Voltage collapse in
Swedish 400kV South
Grid
Tap position increases
nine steps within last 80
seconds on 400kV/130kV
transformer before the
final system breakdown

Voltage Simpevarp Busbar D

500
400

Voltage [kV]

300
200
100
0
0

60

120

180

240

300

360

420

Time [s] after 12:30

Module 12 Example of this OLTC Behavior

TC-position Simpevarp
30

Pos. 26

25
20

Pos. 17

15
10
5
0
0

60

120

180

240

300

360

420

Time [seconds]

~80 s

58

Module 12 Blackout of the South Part of Sweden

1.5 Million people left

without electrical power
in Sweden

Complete system
restoration took five
hours

Module 12 Can Modern Numerical ATCC be Smarter?

59

Module 12 Measure Voltage on Both Sides of the Transformer!

UHV
UHV >

UHV >

UHV <

UHV <

UHV <

UHV <

UHV <

UHV <

Detect increased reactive power (i.e. Q)

flow through power transformer

Temporary block ATCC for 20s

U_rated

Normal Voltage Range

Temporary block ATCC for 20s

UHV

HV capacitor bank switch-in

ATCC set point reduction

Programmable
LOGIC
by using
AND gates,
OR gates,
TIMERS,
etc.

Block ATCC operation

Undervoltage load shedding

REDUCE Uset
BLOCK AUTO
RAISE

ULV

IED

LOWER
ATCC

Module 12 Influence from HV Side Voltage Measurement

When the HV voltage is within normal limits, allow ATCC

function to work normally

If the HV voltage deviates from the normal range, temporarily

block (e.g. for 20sec) ATCC function to give upstream OLTC
chance to tap first by doing so, the overall number of OLTC
operations in the power system can be drastically reduced

If the HV voltage drops substantially, block ATCC or reduce its

set point

For extremely low HV voltage start to control HV shunt

capacitor banks (if existing in the station)

Finally initiate under voltage load shedding by monitoring HV

and LV voltage levels

60

Module 12 Pre-Study Needed for Best Performance

Which exact actions shall be taken depends on the

particular power system:

Characteristics

Location of power transformer within the power system

Type of load connected on power transformer LV side.

Power system study shall be performed in order to

determine the optimum scheme setup

Module 12 OLTC Maintenance Cost Reduction

Temporary block of local

ATCC for smaller voltage
deviation on power
transformer HV side also
drastically improves the
cascading ATCC time
coordination in a power
system.

Overall number of OLTC

operations in the power
system will be reduced

Saving for OLTC maintenance

61

Module 12 Influence from HV side voltage measurement

Can be arranged for:

ATCC applied for a single transformer

ATCC applied for parallel transformers

Module 13 ATCC in RET650

The following limitations are imposed in RET650:

Maximum of 4 parallel transformers can be controlled

Maximum of 2 ATCC instances can be included in one IED

TCMYL function block with only 6 binary inputs from the

OLTC mechanism is available (i.e. BCD coding is preferred)

mA module is not yet available in RET650

Reverse Action Blocking feature is not available

Homing feature is not available

Otherwise ATCC functionality in RET650 is identical to ATCC

functionality in RET670

Dedicated configured version RET650-A07 for parallel control of

two transformers is available

62

Module 13 ATCC in RET650

Automatic voltage control, configured version A07
Ready made application configuration
for automatic voltage control

Configured functions in A07

Filled IEC 61850 box indicates: Function

is enabled in Settings

Enabled functions

Automatic voltage control for parallel

transformers

Metering P, Q, S, U, I, f, PF

Disturbance recorder

Trip circuit supervision (2 CB)

Battery supervision

Included backup protection functions like

I>, I>, 3Io>, U>, U<, 3Uo>
for both transformers

ABB Group
March 2011
Slide 125

Questions

63

 ABB Group
March 25, 2014 | Slide 127

64