Introduction to Gas Insulated Switchgear and Substations

Dr. M. Mohana Rao

BHEL Corporate R&D Hyderabad E-mail: mmrao@bhelrnd.co.in

Cable Technology
1960s-1980s: 1980s-1990s: 1970s-1990s: Fluid filled systems for HV and EHV Low loss PPL systems to match the paper laminates performance for EHV Parallel development of XLPE system from MV up to EHV 275kV XLPE cables in service. In Japan 500 kV XLPE cables installed. 1970s-1990s: Gas-filled (SF6) short lengths installed. Many lab models for higher voltages, including three phase designs in a single duct. Also, SF6/N2 mixtures attempted. 1970s-1990s: Low temp. cryogenic/supercon. designs tried. witnessed the phenomenal growth in HTS technology.

Power Ratings: for conventional cable technologies

1. Paper fluid-filled

2.
3.

PPL fluid-filled
XLPE

Insulation Thickness: for conventional cables from 1990 to 1998

500kV - from ~35mm down to ~ 25mm
220kV - from ~24mm down to ~ 20mm 132kV - from ~22mm down to ~ 15mm

Design Stresses: for conventional cables

Paper - from 10kV/mm to ~15kV/mm

PPL - from ~18kV/mm to ~20kV/mm

XLPE - from ~5kV/mm to ~35kV/mm

[Theoretical maxm. stress in 100% SF 6 is

~89kV/cm.bar]

Energy and Industrial Culture

With oil crisis of 1970s and the growing environmental movement, the energy picture is very different now! In Europe (Western) and North America the electricity usage is almost constant. In developing countries, however, the usage is growing between 7 and 10%

per year. The availability of useful forms of energy is not equal

worldwide, and there are major geographical barriers to the movement of energy in the world. World-wide experience in transporting oil, natural gas

and electricity over long distances (thousands of km)

Present Status of Conventional Cable Technology

Both oil-paper and polymeric cables up to 500 kV system voltage are in service and commercially available. Experimental designs of oil-paper cable have been tested for both 750 kV and 1000 kV. Cost differentials for such cable when compared to overhead lines are in excess of 25:1 (some estimates put this as high as 40:1). Technology of making joints is still in an experimental/development stage. At such high operating voltages the margin to the high voltage intrinsic breakdown is lower. very high quality control is needed.

Present Status of Conventional Cable Technology

Conventional cable technology is very well established and over the past 100 years there have been many technological improvements. Compressed gas cable technology has matured over the last 30 years, but its potential for bulk power transport is yet to be exploited and developed. This prospect raises the technological and economic question of: How does one move large amounts of electrical energy to major urban centres? Over sparsely populated areas, overhead lines are, perhaps, the only proven and economic option for long distances.

Present Status of Conventional Cable Technology

High temperature superconductor technology is developing rapidly but [is] not yet fully commercially viable for bulk power transport. However, near urban centres overhead lines are no
longer acceptable to the communities for environmental and aesthetic reasons. What are the alternatives?

Three choices in technology:

Conventional underground power cables Compressed gas cables (SF6 - Sulphur Hexa-fluoride)

Superconducting cables.

Air Insulated Substation (AIS)

GIS ASSEMBLY
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Bus bar Circuit Breaker Disconnector (line or bus) Earthing switch (line or bus) Current transformer (feeder / bus) Voltage transformer (feeder/ bus) Feeder Disconnector Feeder Earthing switch Lightning / Surge Arrester Cable termination Control Panel.

Limitations of AIS
Large dimensions due to statutory clearances and poor dielectric strength of air Insulation deterioration with ambient conditions and susceptibility to pollutants. Wastage of space above Life of steel structures Seismic instability Large planning & execution time Grounding-mat is essential for containing touch and step potentials Hot line washing and regular maintenance of the substation is essential, requires spares inventory and man-power.
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The need for GIS

Expansion / up-rating of existing s/s Non availability of sufficient space for s/s Difficult climatic and seismic conditions at site Urban site (high rise bldg.) High altitudes Limitations of AIS

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GITL
In addition to the advantages listed above for GIS, there is a need for non-aerial transmission lines near urban areas.

There are currently only two alternatives:

Underground cablesconventional or superconducting, or Gas Insulated Transmission Lines (GITL)

GITL, compared to underground cables, have the additional advantage of reduced ground surface magnetic fields.

Clearances
Phase to ground clearance for 132 kV systems is ~1200 mm in air, compared to 80 mm in SF6 gas at 4.0 bar(g).
This gives a direct reduction in dimensions of the high- voltage equipment- by 15

Consequently the size of SF6 insulated equipment is around 6% that of air insulated equipment for this voltage class (132kV)

Equipment size
To 30% for 33kV and below To 15% for 66kV To 6% for 132 kV to 170 kV and To 4-5% for >245kV

AIS and GIS in the same number of bay

GIS

AIS

Old 400kV AIS Substation

Under refurbishment

New 400kV GIS Substation

After refurbishment (in 2005)

New 400kV GIS Substation

Design Features of GIS/GITL

GIS/GITL installations have the usual components:

Circuit breakers; disconnect, earthing/grounding

switches

Current and voltage measuring devices

Bus duct sections Variety of diagnostic/monitoring devices

Design Features of GIS/GITL

Installations from distribution voltages right up to the highest transmission voltages (765 kV) have been in service for more than two decades. Both isolated-phase and three-phase designs are in use.

SF6 is the insulating medium at a pressure of 4 to 5

atmospheres. GITL units are factory-assembled in lengths of 40 to 50 feet.

The phase conductor is of aluminium / copper. The outer enclosure is also of aluminium, although

earlier designs used mild steel / Stainless steel. For lower voltages, stainless steel has also been used.

Typical Cable Section

Growth of GIS

Growth of GIS Installations

Before 1985 January Voltage 1 2 3 4 5 6 Total GIS 230 227 123 45 26 751 CB-Bay-Yrs. 28669 21252 10362 3870 3252 67,405 After 1985 January GIS 731 382 147 65 37 2 CB-Bay-Yrs. 28215 12808 5678 2904 1273 200 51,078

Voltage Class 1 2 3 4 5 6 60 100 kV 100 200 kV 200 300 kV 300 500 kV 500 700 kV >700 kV

Bus

CT

CB

300 kV GIS

VT

CB

400 kV GIS

800 kV GIS

Cone Insulator

Expansion joint

Concept of GIS

Design of GIS

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HT Conductor

Enclosure

Cone Insulator

Cross section of a Bus Section

Design of GIS
Minimum Isolating Distances
Critical stress (Ecr) at gas pressure, P = 5.3(1+0.46P)[1+(1/rc0.5)*(2.82-2.29/P)] kV/mm Geometric constant (K) for co-axial geometry =shell dia. / conductor dia. Field Factor (Ff) = (K-1)/ln K Safe Working Stress, Es = Ecr/Ef Minimum isolating distance (x) = applied voltage / safe working stress mm

Design of GIS
The gas-insulated equipment works under two major stresses: 1. Electrical stress 2. Mechanical stress The electrical design results in basic clearances between HT conductor and the enclosure. Controlling of electrical stresses on high voltage electrodes is also an objective of the electrical design.

The mechanical design comprising of equipment dimensions, support structures and the operating systems like drives for switching components.

Design Philosophy

Safety High reliability

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Safety
Safety is introduced by optimising operating electrical stresses to safe levels by better interelectrode spacing Safety is reinforced by increasing the gas volume and the thermal inertia of the system to enhance cooling and retain insulation strength

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High Reliability
Reliability is ensured By superior contact systems for CB, and disconnectors Multi-contact and friction free surfaces are incorporated for long operating cycles Rugged, time proven operating drives are used

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In-service fault rate (faults/station-year) vs. years in service for 25 North American GIS.

Calculated field gradient:

1, 2, 3, & 4: 230 kV bus conductors 1, 2, 3 & 4: 550 kV bus conductors

insulators of various design

Designs of cast Epoxy insulators

Dimensions and ratings of rigid single phase GITL underground systems.

Comparison of GITL dimensions for manufacturers. The dimensions selected reflect the manufacturers design and manufacturing philosophy including design testing, quality control and manufacturing tolerances.

Typical design of compressed gas insulated transmission line. Shipping module is 18 m long with insulators every 6 m. Other designs may use only disc or conical insulators. Drawing not to scale.

Full-scale model GIL and insulating system.

Determination of the diameters of conductor and enclosure.

Example of the construction of post-type particle trap.

Required specifications.

Fundamental dimensions and material used in GIL

Cross section of corridor for the GIL.

Relative cost of CGIT systems as function of enclosure diameter.

Cost breakdown of 60 foot CGIT shipping module (including assembly, labour and testing).

Dimensions and rating of 3-conductor, buried CGIT systems.

Optimum dimensions for three conductor cable: Re = 5.56 Rc, R1 = 2.78 Rc.

Designs of threeconductor CGIT systems. Post insulators a-c are attached to metallic ring which moves inside enclosure, insulators d-f are attached by welding to inside of enclosure.

Medium Voltage Gas Insulated Substation Systems

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Medium Voltage GIS with Vacuum Interrupters

ISOLATOR cum EARTH SWITCH VACUUM INTERRUPTER
GAS TO AIR BUSHING

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GVM-36 Metal-clad and Gas Insulated MV Switch Panel

PRESSURE RELIEF Vacuum circuit breaker Tubular bus bar Isolator cum earth switch Gas to air termination Cast epoxy CT Gas insulated VT Cable box Bay size 650x1800x2540 Weight 800 kg.
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Bay formation

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Double bus bay

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BUS BAR

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CABLE BOX

INSULATOR

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GVM 36
CB Enclosure

Mechanism

Cable Connection
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36kV GIS with 3-phase double bus

BUS I BUS II

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High & Ultra High Voltage Gas Insulated Equipment and Systems

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GIS Bay

Single Line Diagram

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145 kV GIS

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300 kV GIS

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Single Line Diagram of a GIS

Three Phase bus bar for 145 kV GIS

Enclosure

Rib Insulator
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Circuit Breaker under SC Test at CESI

Line side

Housing

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Mechanism

Load side

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ISOLATOR / DS
HT shield

Fixed Contact
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Moving Contact

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Testing of GIS Modules - DS

Bus Charging current: The current in rms value which breaker shall make or break when energising or deenergizing parts of a bus bar system. TD1 : Switching of a very short portion of bus duct. AC Voltage: 1.1xVph DC Voltage: -1.1*1.414*Vph Bus Transfer Current : This is the current disconnector shall make or breaks when the disconnector transfers load from one bus system to another. The current is 80% of the current rating or maximum limited to 1600 A.
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Testing of GIS Modules - DS

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Testing of GIS Modules - DS

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EARTH SWITCH (ES)

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 EARTH SWITCH (ES)

Fixed Contact ES Housing

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Moving Contact 53

Design and development of 145 kV, 40 kA Gas Insulated Earth Switch.

The earth switch developed in the present contribution can be used to discharge long lines/cables basically for removal of DC voltage / trapped voltage on the line. The switch can also be used to discharge the HT line before opted for maintenance of the substation.

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Testing of GIS modules Earth Switch

2 No. of Making operations. Verification of per-arc characteristic without s/c current. Electromagnetic current 50 A @ 1k V. Electrostatic Current 0.4 A @ 3 kV. 10 No. make/break operating cycles.

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Gas Insulated Surge Arrester

LT Terminal

145 kV
72.5 kV 52 kV 33 kV
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Surge arrester

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Testing of GIS modules - Surge Arrester

Dielectric Tests : PD, AC 1 Min. , Impulse PD test as per IEC - 60270 AC and Impulse test as per IEC - 60060-1 Leakage Current Test. Residual Voltage test for Lightning Impulse wave 8/20 s as per IEC-99-4 V-I characteristics.
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Testing of GIS modules - Surge Arrester

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Technological Advancements

Fast response surge arresters A break-through in SA technology Patented arrangement of MOV elements help reducing the inductance of the system. Uniform voltage distribution on elements (~3-6%)

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Current Transformer (CT)

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Current Transformer
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Voltage Transformer (VT)

Secondary Terminal Box

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Barrier Insulator

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Cable-to-gas termination
Barrier Insulator

Silicon Rubber Boot

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XLPE
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Cable /SF6 Termination

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GAS-TO-AIR BUSHING

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Design and Development of Gas-to-Oil Bushings 72.5 kV for GIS Application

The developed bushing has been tested successfully for an insulation withstand level suitable to 72.5 and 110 kV GIS. The equipment has been withstood at 40 kA for the time duration of 1 sec with peak current magnitude of 100 kA. The development is first of its kind in India.

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Pre-Fabricated Cable Connection for 145 kV Sub-station application

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Support Insulator

Pre-Fabricated Cable connection

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400 kV GIS Test set-up under HV Test.

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400 kV GIS CB Assembly under HV Test.

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400 kV GIS DS/ES Assembly under HV Test.

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 Current Transformer (CT)

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400 kV Gas Insulated Transmission Line (GITL)

Rated voltage Rated Current Frequency Impulse withstand Voltage Power Frequency withstand Voltage Rated Short time current = 420 kV (rms) = 2500 A = 50 Hz = 1425 kVp = 630 kV (rms), 1 Min. = 40 kA

Advantages: The charging current is substantially reduced. The dielectric losses are negligible. The comparatively large diameters of conductor and enclosure result in low resistive and heat losses. The power carrying capability is more than conventional lines at a particular system voltage. The configuration provides highly effective screening.

TEST FACILITIES

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Cascade Transformer :

500 kV(rms), 1 Amp

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Impulse Generator 77

Gas Filled Test Transformer: 325 kV

Test Transformer

Test Object

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Computerized Discharge Analyzer (CDA - 3)

PD level (min- max, current & power) PD Count, Repetition rate, Phase-angle, Q-rate and Phase plots
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Acoustic Insulation Analyzer (AIA)

Assembly of acoustic insulation analyzer on grounded GIS enclosure.

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Proof tests on GIS Enclosure

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Proof test on GIS Enclosure

Gas insulated modules with welded steel enclosures tested for 2.3 x normal pressure. Record of strain. No distortion in shape of enclosure.

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Arc Fault tests on GIS Enclosure

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Arc Fault test on GIS Enclosure

Arc fault test at STC rating on GIS enclosure as per IEC-62271-203. Arc fault test at 0.1 sec and 0.3 sec for 40 kA and above. Arc fault test at 0.2 sec and 0.5 sec for 40 kA below. Operation of pressure relief in first stage of protection. No-fragmentation in second stage of protection.

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Certification of GIS modules for Internal Arc Fault at 40 kA.

Importance: The main aim of the present evaluation is to provide high protection to the operating personnel at the substation. This is possible by limiting the external effect of the arc to the appearance to a hole or a tear in the enclosure without any fragmentation.

0.1 sec, 40 kA

1. The test has been conducted in two phases, confirming the main and back-up protection as per IEC 62271-103. 2. For the time duration of main protection (< 0.1 sec), no external effects of the enclosure except the operation of suitable pressure 12/13/2010 relief devices. 86

Certification of GIS modules for Internal Arc Fault at 40 kA.

0.3 sec, 40 kA 1. For the duration of back-up protection (< 0.3 sec), no fragmentation except burn- through of the enclosure. 2. Certification of GIS modules for the arc fault test enhances the business potential of the 145 kV GIS equipment. Now, BHEL became one of a few GIS suppliers, who can offer the equipment with this certification. 12/13/2010 87

Site Testing of GIS

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Site Testing as per IEC60517

Power Frequency test at 80 % of test voltage level for 1 min or impulse test at 80 % level. Power frequency test at 100 % of test voltage level for 1 min across isolator contacts or impulse test at 100 % level. For 245 kV and above PD test as per standards IEC60270 : Conventional, VHF/UHF, Acoustic methods. AC and Impulse test as per IEC - 60060-1.

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Site Testing as per IEC62271-203

Power Frequency test voltage at 1.1 times phase voltage or 1.9 times phase voltage for at least 10 min. Power Frequency test voltage at phase voltage or line voltage for at least 30 min. System is preferred to test as sections. DC voltage test on GIS is not preferable.

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Insulation Reliability - Challenges

In view of high reliability requirement of GIS technology, both manufacturers and users have to be aware of certain HV insulation problems inherent in the GIS design. These are: Reliability of support spacers. Generation of VFTO by disconnect switch operation. Contamination of SF6 gas by metallic particles. Arcing/discharge by-products in SF6. Environmental green house effects of SF6.

Insulation Reliability - Challenges

Diagnostic methods for identifying defects in a GIS installation have been proposed by CIGRE. Many gross assembly errors and poor quality assurance procedures can give rise to significant partial discharges (PD), which in the presence of moisture may lead to toxic byproducts in the SF6 gas. Automated insulation condition monitoring systems, with innovative sensors, are being developed and installed on GIS and other HV power apparatus. New techniques for PD detection/location are perhaps the most significant developments in GIS condition monitoring.

Design Principle
The electrostatic field with the insulator should not exceed the field at the central conductor surface without the insulator.
Very difficult to achieve!

Effect of cohesion in case of coaxial electrode

Designs of cast Epoxy insulators

Surface Flashovers in GIS

Air SF6
Parallel plane Point-to-plane Coaxial

GASES

GEOMETRY

Epoxy Teflon

MATERIALS

DC 50 / 60 HZ AC Switching and lightning VFTO

VOLTAGE

Breakdown and corona voltage

Surface charge MEAS.

Pre-breakdown current pulses

Particle contamination MEAS.

Three phase Bus bar system

Three Phase bus bar for 145 kV GIS

Enclosure

Rib Insulator
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Technological Advancements
Support Insulators specially designed to avoid external pipe connection for gas

Cone Insulators
Non-communicating Communicating

Rib Insulators
For 3-phase systems
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Cone Insulators

145 kV GIS

245 kV GIS

Rib-Type
(145 kV GIS)
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420 kV GIS

Critical Problems
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Triple-junction design Tangenital vs. normal field at the insulator Surface discharges from partial discharges Presence of metallic particles on the insulator surface For D.C. applications - the problem of bulk charging of insulator Poor quality material - voids & other defects

Reliability of Support Spacers

Bulk failure is rare - but voids, protrusions, conducting contaminants may cause sustained discharges in the bulk and lead to failure. Casting is a high temperature process and differential cooling and contaminants in the filler (Al2O3) have to be minimized by strict quality control. Very often the PD level generated by these defects is below the detection sensitivity of 1pc.
Intrinsic breakdown of epoxy spacer is rare- but the material does age. Economic pressure to reduce spacer dimension since this will affect the enclosure diameter.

Reliability of Support Spacers

Early designs operating AC stress was 10 kV/mm (rms) at maximum locations. Many of these failed in service in about 5 years. Typical stresses now range from 2 kV/mm (rms) at 145 kV and 4.1 kV/mm (rms) at 800 kV. But some high voltage designs still use 5-6 kV/mm (rms). Another factor is the reduced margin between BIL and operating stress as the voltage class becomes higher. PD detection requires increasing detection sensitivity as the spacer size increases with voltage level of GIS. For example, 550 / 800 kV spacer should perhaps be tested with a detection sensitivity of about 0.5 pc. Such a level is difficult to achieve in a factory.

Reliability of Support Spacers

Improved ultra wideband techniques, including coupler designs may allow measurements to 0.1 pc in a factory environment. With further improvements in noise filtering, high quality test transformers, levels of 0.01 pc have been achieved in a factory setting.
When there are voids present, either from the start or due to slow initiation activity at protrusions and metallic inclusions, the electron production rate is too low to start a PD in one minute of test. (3 electrons/cm3-sec). Testing spacers in a factory at a higher voltage would compensate for the lack of initiatory electrons.

Reliability of Support Spacers

The question of x-ray irradiation during spacer testing has now been taken up seriously by manufacturers.

Even a small protrusion on the central conductor near a spacer would deposit a line charge on the spacer. The local field at the tips of such a line charge could be high enough to initiate a local discharge. A trapped charge of, say, 0.8 pu on a 550kV GIS is equivalent to a sustained DC voltage of ~340kV in the bus.
The question of trapped DC charge on a GIS bus bar should not be ignored. Such a line charge may be particularly dangerous when the disconnect switch operates. The combined transient field plus the line charge filed may be sufficient to cause spacer flashover.

Schematic diagram of electrode geometry with insulator.

Typical sequential variations of the breakdown voltage of a coaxial conductor without and with a cone spacer.

Effect of Trapped charge

Insulating spacers are widely used in high-voltage power apparatus. From a withstand voltage of view spacers are the weakest components and an improvement in the understanding of surface flashover characteristics of such solid insulators is beneficial for better designs of power apparatus.
In the bus bar of GIS there could be trapped charge after disconnect switch operations. The electrical stress created by these charges can lower the withstand voltage.

Trapped charge DC prestressing

From extensive research work, it was found the surface charge accumulated on the spacer surface after applied impulse voltage or DS operation.

The application of DC pre-stressing will approximate conditions resulting from disconnect operation or lightning/switching surge. Work was undertaken to determine the changes, if any, in the early stages of the surface breakdown under lightning impulse voltage when there is a prior direct stress.

Test Model and Experiment Set Up

The Test Circuit

The results obtained with the combined dc and impulse voltages have indicated that a dc voltage alters the electric field distribution along the surface of a spacer.

Trapped charge : DC pre-stressing

From the experiments, it is clear that the initiation glow of flashover on insulator is at somewhere between two electrodes. There would be local field enhancements at several places. It is not justifiable to employ spacers with perfect or near perfect surfaces. Hence, improvements in the withstand voltage can only be obtained by preventing field enhancements through other means such as a weakly conductive coating. The development of flashover when there is a dc initial voltage is much more rapid than when there is no dc voltage. The rapid flashover development can give rise to fast-fronted transients in the substation.

Comparison of streak image of surface flashover and gap breakdown in the air. (a) gap breakdown, (b) surface flashover

A streak photograph of the surface flashover before insulator pre-charging.

Pre-discharge development in SF 6.
t=0 is the start of the voltage breakdown at the gap.

Pre-discharge development at an insulator surface with a disturbance near the anode.

It is evident that the pre-discharge formation occurs in the space between disturbance and cathode. As the discharge proceeds in cathode direction the gap between anode and the disturbance in this case is also bridged simultaneously.

Pre-discharge development at an insulator surface with a disturbance near the cathode. It is evident that the pre-discharge formation occurs in the space between disturbance and anode. As the discharge proceeds in cathode direction the remaining gap between cathode and the disturbance in this case is bridged very late.

Pre-discharge development at an insulator surface with a protruding disturbance near the anode.

Pre-discharge development at an insulator surface with a protruding disturbance near the cathode.

Particle Contamination in GIS/GITL

Effect of:

Particle dimensions Ambient field non-uniformity Gas composition Particle deformation Number of particles - free

Duration of voltage application Voltage waveform

Nearness to a spacer Fixed or free particles

Particle Control During Manufacture and Assembly (GIS/GITL)

80-85% of surface area is due to the inside surface of the enclosure. This is not easy to clean. Enclosures are normally extruded Al. or steel tubes

Manufactured surface finish is limited.

Die marks, oxide layers and local damage is always present and these are the main sources of particles.

Surface conditioning of the enclosure is essential. Any surface conditioning process must address: oxide layers, die marks, burrs and loosely attached machining debris.

Sources of Metal Particles in GIS

Machining debris Expansion joints Poor mechanical assembly Other defects in metal parts

Possible particle locations

1. 2. 3. 4. Fixed on phase conductor Fixed on enclosure Free to move in elec. field Fixed on spacer

Free particle movement is different under DC, AC and Impulse voltages.

Effect of particle / wire length

Degradation in electrical insulation strength of SF6 caused by conducting particles.

Loss of dielectric strength of SF 6 in the presence of a 0.45/6.4 mm wire particle in a coaxial system subject to direct voltages.

Hjk
L;l

L;l
L;l
H

L L L

Section of a simulated motion of an Al/0.5/10 mm particle (100 kV, 3 bar, R=0.80).

Section of a simulated motion of a Cu/0.5/10 mm particle (100 kV, 3 bar, R=0.80).

Video shots of particle motion.

Comparison of the effect of coefficient of restitution on the calculated maximum bounce height for 0.45/6.4 mm copper particles, field strength 2.5 kV/mm peak, 60 Hz.

Metallic Particle Control

Q-control of machining of components Ultra-sonic cleaning of components Adhesive tapes/coatings Particle traps Dielectric coatings Conditioning

Conditioning Methods for Enclosure Surface

1. 2. 3. 4. Chemical etching Sand or glass bead blasting Abrasive finishing using oil oxide paper Mechanical vibration with forced air flow.

Flexible CGIT system with double corrugated conductor and injection molded insulators

Particle Control by Dielectric Coating

To move in an electric field the particle needs to be charged By coating the inside surface of the enclosure we may reduce the charge

BUT A metallic particle on a dielectric coating may acquire charge by: conduction through coating by partial discharge between particle and coating
OR by contact charging from and already charged surface

Why Dielectric Coatings?

Effect on breakdown Effect on particle charging Effect on maximum excursion height Particle movement inhibition pseudo-resonance Breakdown probability Experimental results

Insulator and particle trap for CGIT system.

SF6; Teflon; 1.5 mm diameter steel.

Micro-discharge criterion SF6, 2 mm dia. spheres, theoretical computation.

Effect of applied voltage on maximum height reached by an aluminum wire particle (0.45 mm dia./6.4 mm long) in a 70/90 mm GIS/GITL system (_______ uncoated, - - - coated) for a coefficient of restitution of 0.95.

Effect of coating on Lifting field of particles.

1.5 mm diameter steel spheres, Polyurethane coating.

1.5 mm diameter steel sphere, Epoxy coating.

Particle movement: Effect of particle length on time to first gap crossing.

Comparison of calculations and measurements: Particle motion from calculations and videotape observation.

Dielectric Coating of HT conductors and enclosures

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Dielectric Coating of HT conductors and enclosures

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hj

Smoothed curves of lifting field vs. pressure for spherical SS particles 1.5 mm diameter.

Effect of PD for different particles

Very Fast Transient Over voltages (VFTO) and Transient Enclosure Voltages (TEV) During GIS Operation
Dr. M. Mohana Rao
BHEL Corporate R&D Hyderabad E-mail: mmrao@bhelrnd.co.in

What is VFT?
In a GIS, Very Fast Transient Over voltages (VFTO) are generated mainly due to switching operations. The voltage collapse across switching contacts takes place in 3 to 20 ns depending on breakdown voltage, electric field nonuniformity and operating gas pressure. The short-rise time pulse (i.e., voltage collapse) starts at the switching contacts that propagate along the gas insulated bus sections/components and take reflections at different terminations. Because of superposition of the original pulse with the reflected pulse, VFTO are developed. The waveform of these transients depends on the configuration of the GIS. The VFTO levels are found to be on the higher side for the following conditions of the switching configurations: (1) Small length of bus sections on the load side of the switch. (2). High surge capacitance components on source side of switch (3.0 P.u.).

DS Operation

GENERATION OF VFTO

Load voltage

Opening Operation

Source voltage

Why VFT is a Problem?

Earthing of GIS
GIS Earthing is possible in Two ways:

1. Single Point Earthing 2. Multi-point Earthing.

In single point earthing each enclosure is isolated from next one and grounded each enclosure at only one point so that no loop currents.
In multiple point earthing enclosures are electrically connected and grounded at many locations. In addition the enclosures of the different phases are connected by shunts.
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Earthing of GIS
multiple point earthing

single point earthing

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Earthing of GIS

1. Return Conductors 2. Earthing conductors 3. Return and Earthing Conductors 4. GIS earthing mat.
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Earthing of GIS

Multipoint Earthing is advantageous than single point earthing because of the following:

Reliability of grounding
Low magnetic field intensity outside the enclosure VFT related Flashovers Can be controlled.

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Earthing of GIS
In Multipoint Earthing the following aspects are Important: 1. Only small portion of the return current flow through the earthing conductors.

2. The current induced in the enclosure could be up to 90 to 95 % of the rated current. 3.To avoid excessive currents in grounding grid (earthing net) the enclosures are connected by inter-phase shunts.
4. Due to multiple eathing connections loops are formed which carry very high induced currents due to strong electromagnetic field coupling and low impedances.
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VFTO LEVELS?

VFTO SECONDARY BREAKDOWN

Characteristics of VFT

Frequency Components of VFTOs in GIS

VFTC LEVELS ?

Coupling Phenomena of VFT

Why TEV IS A CONCERN?

Internal voltage collapse produces travelling waves, in both directions, from the point of breakdown. Such transients are often called VFTO (very fast transient over voltages). At the points of discontinuity (changes in surge impedance) these VFTO waves get reflected and refracted. Such transitions can be modeled as junctions of transmission lines. Being high freq. transients, the currents are confined to the skin depth of the coaxial conductors.

Why TEV IS A CONCERN?

The very fast transient over voltages and the associated transient currents generated in gas insulated section propagates partly to the overhead transmission line and partly to the exterior surface of the bus section enclosure. Typical impedance junctions are air/SF6 bushing, GIS/cable connections, ground leads connecting the enclosure to the earthing grid/mat/plate, or a ZnO arrester. Out of these two, gas-to-air bushing is the most significant one. The transient voltages that appear on the exterior surface of the enclosure during switching operations or earth faults is known as Transient Enclosure voltages (TEV) or Transient Ground Potential Rise (TGPR).

Why TEV IS A CONCERN?

TEV or TGPR can be a very serious EMC and personnel safety problem. Voltage rise on grounded shields of several kV at distances up to several km have been observed in early days.

Such transient voltages on the grounded enclosure arise from an internal collapse of voltage in the SF6 gas, internal re-strikes across circuit breaker or disconnect switch contacts, or flashover of external insulation close to GIS, e.g., and air-SF6 bushing.

TRANSIENT ENCLOSURE VOLTAGES (TEV)

GIS enclosure is electrically continuous. GIS enclosure is grounded at several points. Induced magnetic field on the metallic structures and the control circuits are reduced due to the flow of major portion of return current in the GIS enclosure.

TEV Levels in 800 kV GIS MODEL

By using ground strips with large perimeter (strips of rectangular bars) to limit high frequency impedance. By using multiple ground wires at the discontinuities like gas-to-air bushing. By decreasing the height of the enclosure above the earth surface. Application of ZnO arresters or surge capacitors at the discontinuities of electrically small insulated flanges, GIS enclosures, GIS and connected equipment enclosures. Using low impedance copper strips for shorting of the enclosures.

 Support spacer flanges can also act as sites for reflections.

Internal breakdown give a step voltage rise-time, dependent on gas pressure of SF6,

Tr(min) (11.5) ns p where, p is in mPa.

Propagation of surge down ground connections

GIS data:
.

Z1 = 60 - 450

Z2 = 350 - 260 Ze = 200 - 90 Zg = 150 - 300

Assessment of surge propagating beyond GIS

 For a bushing transient the TEV ~ (S1) (Trav. wave) where S1 = - _2Ze_ Z1+Z2+Ze Voltage going out to line is ~ (S2) (Trav. wave) where S2 = - 2Zg_ 2Zg+Ze Zg = surge imp. of ground connection Ze = surge imp. of enclosure S1 = 0.54 to 0.78 S2 = 0.54 to 0.75 Note: Significant over voltages can develop on the enclosure!

Over voltages on enclosures associated with a cable termination

Transient Ground-Rises in GIS

(For earthing practices in GIS installation see: W G 21.03 Rep. in Electra, No. 151, Dec., 1993, PP. 3152)

Operational Experience with GIS/GITL

Reliability of support spacers Very Fast Transient Over-voltages (VFTO)

transient ground rise

bushing and transformer insulation design of disconnect switches Metallic particle contamination

Discharge by-products in SF6 gas

Environmental effects of SF6

CIGRE Survey 2000: Voltage classes

Distribution of enclosures on a voltage class basis.

Distribution of short circuit current ranges on a voltage class basis.

Distribution of degree of importance assigned by users to the development of technology to monitor parameters

Users opinion on continuous vs. periodic

Distribution of major failure causes reported by users for all voltage classes.

A Statistical Study on GIS failures

Major failure frequency by voltage class.

CIGRE survey 2000

Major failure frequency (FF) 2nd GIS survey total population and comparison between the 1st and the 2nd survey results.

CIGRE Survey 2000

Identification of main component involved in the failure from GIS voltage class point of view.

CIGRE Survey 2000: Identification of main component involved in the failure from GIS age point of view (5 most involved components).

The composite electrode system

A measured fast front step waveform

A fast front breakdown of oil and paper.

Operation of 145 kV GIS at APTRANSCo

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POWER MODE DEMONSTRATION OF 145 kV GIS @ RC PURAM SUB-STATION Control Cubicle

145 kV GIS
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POWER MODE DEMONSTRATION OF 145 kV GIS @ RC PURAM SUB-STATION Load Line

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145 kV GIS

POWER MODE DEMONSTRATION OF 145 kV GIS @ RC PURAM SUB-STATION

VT

T-Isolator

Bus Bar 12/13/2010

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145 kV GIS

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300

CURRENT, A
200

VOLTAGE, kV
100

POWER, MVA
0 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

TIME, HRS

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23 kV GIS @ RC PURAM substation Loading Pattern

Environmental Concerns with SF6 Usage and SF6-N2 Mixtures

Dr. M. Mohana Rao

BHEL Corporate R&D Hyderabad E-mail: mmrao@bhelrnd.co.in

Arcing and Discharges in GIS SF6 Insulation and Handling of Byproducts

Product SOF2 (SF4)

Approx. Concentration by Volume (%) 0.5

SOF4
SiF4

0.085
0.085

S2F10
SO2F2 SO2 HF

0.026
0.006 0.002 1.0

Note: SF4 is quickly hydrolyzed to SOF2

Compound SOF2

TLV by ppmv 1.6

SO2
HF S2F10

2
3 0.01

Rough characterization of decomposition produces resulting from different sources

Main decomposition products reactivity with atmospheric humidity

decomposition source

toxicity (weighted)

formula SOF2 SO2F2 SO2

state gas gas gas

abundance low low low high low medium

hot contacts

medium low low

partial discharges

SOF2 SF4

gas gas

low low

high medium

medium high

no load switching arcs

SOF2 SOF4 SO2F2

gas gas gas

low low low

high high low

medium medium low

decomposition source

main decomposition products formula state abundance

toxicity (weighted)

reactivity with atmospheric humidity

heavy switching arcs

SF4 WF6 SOF2 CF4 HF CuF2 WO3

gas gas gas gas gas solid solid

medium medium medium medium low medium medium

medium high high non toxic medium non toxic non toxic

high high medium none low none none

internal arcs

HF SF4 CF4 Al2F3 Fe2F3

gas gas gas solid solid

medium high medium high high

medium medium non toxic medium non toxic

low high none medium none

Chemical measurements. Example of chromatographic measurements. Defect a): PD level of 10-15 pC. SOF2 and SO2F2 by-products as a function of the time under voltage.

Chemical measurements. SOF2 and SO2F2 by-products measured after various events. *High sensitivity (0.1 ppmv) chromatography (TCD + FPD/SSD) **Lower sensitivity (50 ppmv) chromatography (TCD only)

Reactivity and toxicity of gaseous SF6 decomposition products

Threshold limit values (TLV) for different SF6 by-products

Rough characterization of decomposition products resulting from different sources

Flowchart for the destination of removed SF6

Basic structure of the SF6 reclaiming process

A comprehensive catalogue of guidelines for the handling and management of SF6 is available from the US EPA.

SF6 - Global Environmental Impact

SF6 is non-toxic, very stable chemically. It is man-made and its lifetime in upper atmosphere is very long (800 to 3200 years!) Currently, 80% used by elec. power industry. Other uses are in micro-electronics, aluminum, magnesium production, tracer gas, nuclear industry etc. 7000 metric tons/yr in 1993 - reached 10,000 tons/yr by 2010. Allowable concentration 1000 ppm by vol.

Two areas of Health and Environmental impact:

A. Through its normal use in a work place ARCING BYPRODUCTS

B.

Global environmental impact - OZONE DEPLETION & WARMING

By itself SF6 is non-toxic and the TLV level is about 1000 ppmv.
However, many organizations require a much lower level. Three levels of personnel protection recommended are:

Low 1000 ppmv Intermediate 200 ppmv High 20 ppmv Breakdown by-products arise, both under arcing and under low-energy discharges, such as corona. Above ~500C SF6 begins to break up and at ~3000C dissociation is complete. During the cooling period, at ~1000C, many chemical reactions occur. H2O is a major factor.

SF6 As a Greenhouse Gas

ozone depletion, and global warming. CFC + (UV) --> Cl + (CFC) Residue Cl + O3 --> CI0 + O2 Cl0 + O --> Cl + O2 It is the release of Cl that is responsible for O3 depletion.

The following relative role is quoted by IEC61624:

CO2 (60%), CH4 (15%), N2O (5%), CFC (12%), SF6 (10-2%) SF6 does not deplete ozone - no chlorine in its structure.

SF6 As a Greenhouse Gas SF6 concentration in upper atmosphere has doubled in the past decade. Increasing at ~8.7% / year. Elect. industry uses ~80% of world production of SF6 (~7000 metric tons in 1993), and the production is expected to grow to ~10,000 metric tons by 2010. SF6 is 25000x more effective than CO2 as a Greenhouse gas. Environmental activists, however, argue that for estimating a worst case impact we must assume that ALL SF6 will eventually leak into the global atmosphere. Estimates show that SF6 concentration in upper atmosphere is rising at 8.7% per year. Approx. doubled in a decade. Could reach 10 parts in 1012 by vol. by 2010.

SF6 As a Greenhouse Gas

But SF6 is very effective in absorbing (and reflecting back to Earth) infra-red radiation. 25000x more effective than CO2! Present contribution of SF6 to global warming is <0.01%.

If the present usage trends continue SF6 contribution to the greenhouse effect could reach 0.1% by the end of the 21st century. No reliable estimates of how much actually leaks into the Earths atmosphere. No inventory check or validation of used gas stockpile is maintained. SF6 can be destroyed by incineration at 1100C in waste disposal plants.

SF6 As a Greenhouse Gas

S2F10 is formed, most likely, in low energy discharges. However, at above 200C it decays if H2O is present. Although, it is difficult to detect, there is reluctant acceptance of its likely presence. The accumulated experience with arcing by-products suggests that the component to want/monitor is SOF2. HF, of course, is highly reactive and hence corrosive. The nauseating and tissue irritant effects often cause the most panic and alarm. Several absorbents are quite effective: Alumina, Soda Lime, Molecular Sieves, and combinations thereof. The most common by-products are: SOF2, SO2, HF, CF4, SF4, SO2F2, plus the various metal fluorides.

Effective ionization co-efficient as a function of electric field strength and pressure.

Values of Relative Electric Strengths

The table shows the values of relative electric strengths measured at pressure indicated (mm Hg) relative to air at the same pressure.

The measurements were made using two polished brass spheres of diameter 1 inch contained in a glass cell which could be evacuated. The spark gap was generally 0.015 to 0.020 inch. The apparatus was checked frequently by the measurement of the relative electric strength of SF6. The average value of this was 2.5.

Values of Relative Electric Strengths

Molecular Formula SF6 C4F6 C5F8 C5F10 CF3CN C2F5CN C3F7CN C8F16O BP C -63.8 -5 25 22 -63 -30 1 101 Relative Electric Strength 2.5/760 mm 3.9/730 mm 5.5/600 mm 4.3/600 mm 3.6/753 mm 4.7/735 mm 5.8/550 mm 6.3/760 at 180 C

Environmental Impact of SF6

SF6 is a gas specifically mentioned in Kyoto protocol. Search is on for a replacement gas or gas mixture. 80% of SF6 manufactured is used by the electrical industry. Leakage rates are <1% per year. Equipment with 20% SF6 is on the market.

SF6/N2 Mixtures for GIS?

So, there is concern in industry about the long-term prospects for its continued use in switchgear and GIS. Hence, the interest in mixtures.

No other synthetic gas (fluoro-carbons) is better in its environmental impact.

SF6/N2 Mixtures for GIS?

Abundant data on the two gases and their mixtures. Reliable production of breakdown strength in uniform fields. Strong synergism between the two gases. Small quantities of SF6 in N2 can improve dielectric strength dramatically. All of the dielectric strength of SF6, nearly, can be achieved by adding less than 20% SF6 into N2. SF6/N2 mixtures less susceptible to effects of field nonuniformity than pure SF6, thus mitigating the effects of particles and surface protrusions.

Data Required in the following areas:

Less is known about dielectric behavior above 1MPa (10 atmos.) PD and corona have not been as extensively studied in SF6/N2 mixtures as in either gas alone. Also, less is known about chemical stability of mixtures under low energy discharges. Little is known about the production rates of S2F10, S2OF10, S2O2F10. Even a low SF6 content (<10%) still generates these by-products.

SF6/N2 mixtures do not have arc quenching properties of SF6 by itself.

Comparative Limiting (E/P) values for SF6/N2 mixtures

SF6 % 100 73.1 50 20 10 5 (E/P) lim 88.6 85.1 79.0 65.2 57.0 50.0 kv/cm.bar

DC Breakdown Voltage of SF6/N2 Mixture in Uniform Field Gap

Measured and calculated 60 Hz ac breakdown voltage values for SF6/N2 mixtures. Similar behavior is exhibited under lightning and switching impulse voltages

Emerging Trends in GIS/GITL Technology

More rigorous factory and on-site commissioning tests. More elaborate/sophisticated monitoring and diagnostic test equipment. Increasing use of GITL, mainly for urban power feeders. One reason is to minimize ground level magnetic fields associated with conventional underground cables. Development of DC GIS for incorporating into expanding national/international HVDC systems.

Emerging Trends in GIS/GITL Technology

Search for replacement gases for SF6. The most promising is an 80%/20% N2/SF6 mixture. Circuit breakers will continue to use pure SF6, and least in the near to mid-term.

Improved one-break circuit breakers for transmission voltage GIS for urban

compact centers.

Replacement of existing AIS by GIS will accelerate, especially near urban centers.

New Developments
UHF partial discharge detection HVDC GIS SF6/N2 mixtures Long GITL installations Compact substations

GIL/GIS Recent Development

70m long prototype for 400 kV system with SF 6/N2 mixture

Simulated 50 year life. Renewed interest in flexible lines. However, the biggest challenge is the design of long 100 m sections. How to mechanically support the conductor?
Switching impulse tests for SF 6/N2 mixture confirm theoretical models. Recycling guidelines for SF 6 and extracting SF6 from SF6/N2 mixtures are now available. Three phase rectangular enclosures for 500 kV class have been tested (~200 cm x 200 cm). Long-term field tests for GIL: minimum 1 year on a 100 m section.

GIL/GIS Recent Development

Comparison of aerial lines and GIL must take into account the total life cycle costs, over 50 to 70 years. Combined voltage and current sensors. Highly integrated sub-station layout - a mixture of metal clad and air-insulated technology. Very thick coatings on conductors. For DC GIS a conductive coating on spacers. Using an epoxy enclosure for GIL. Japanese ~3 km 275 kV GIL.

Recent Developments
Leakage of SF6 <0.5% / yr Combined VT/CT Single-break CB for 550 kV 1100/1200 kV Prototype GIS Refurbishing of old GIS Replacement of AIS in urban areas Mechanical design to allow for SF 6/N2 mixtures

 RE: Maintenance several categories may be defined and equipment classified, e.g.
Routine inspection Preventive maintenance Repair maintenance Corrective/special maintenance and component categories may be: Active or Passive Primary Secondary equipment

 Most major utilities have codes of practice for delivering maintenance services for GIS

Life cycle costs have to be evaluated: LCC = CI + CP + CR + CO + OC

CI: installation (equip. + land + comm. etc.) CP: planned corrective CR: repair CO: operation OC: outage

Field Test of 1000kV Gas Insulated Switchgear Basic specifications and ratings

Field Test of 1000kV Gas Insulated Switchgear Field test items on switchgear

Schematic of a DC GIS Insulation Design

Developmental Testing Elec. - Mech. - Chemical

PD in spacers VFTO Effects on Insulation Mech. Vibration Combined Elec./Mech. Stress in Spacers Chemical Corrosion from SF 6 Arcing on Spacers and Contact Surfaces Particle Dynamics and Control Transient Ground-rise Effects on Control Wiring Insulation

Special Studies In GIS

Insulation has to be designed for low probability breakdown specially under VFTO.

Optical techniques for Current / Voltage sensing

Advances in nanotechnology for insulating materials will have major impact on the design of GIS

Highly Integrated Gas insulated Substations (HIS)

Hybrid Gas Insulated Substations (H-GIS) is combination of Air Insulated substation (AIS) and gas insulated substation (GIS). The technology of H-GIS is based on the concept of combining the advantages of AIS and GIS.

Technology AIS

Type

Termination

Space Reqt.

Outdoor Porcelain / Composite High clad insulator

GIS

Indoor/ outdoor

Gas-to-air termination Low

H-GIS
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Outdoor Gas-to-air bushing

Medium
14

Highly Integrated Gas insulated Substations (HIS)

The advantages of H-GIS are as follows: 1. High reliability same as Gas Insulated substations. 2. Extension can be with ease compared to AIS and GIS. 3. Even though H-GIS occupy more space compared to GIS, it requires less space compared to AIS. The reduction is about 40 % in EHV level (420 -765 kV). 4. Flexible combination of Unit module enables any lay out. This facilitates future extension just by addition of unit module in no time. Cable and termination costs can be cut as they are in outdoor yard and can be directly connected to transmission lines. 5. Viable as stand-alone modules, no interconnections required from one bay to another and can be oriented anywhere in substation yard. Easy retrofits. 6. Utility can choose the limited portions which need to be enclosed in gas, based on criticality of insulation. 7. Building or basement cost not required.
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Highly Integrated Gas insulated Substations (HIS)

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Highly Integrated Switchgear

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Hybrid GIS

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Composite insulator- weight comparison

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