HVDC Transmission Systems Engineering Course

Training Outlines

Introduction

High-voltage direct-current transmission enables long-distance bulk transfer, asynchronous interconnection and efficient connection of remote renewable resources. Successful projects require coordinated converter, cable, insulation, control, protection and AC-system studies.

This course provides a complete engineering view of line-commutated and voltage-source HVDC systems. Participants will compare topologies, analyse converter operation, design control and protection functions, evaluate network interactions and structure testing and commissioning activities.

Objectives

• Select suitable HVDC technology and configuration
• Explain LCC and VSC converter operation
• Size principal converter-station equipment
• Design power, voltage and current controls
• Assess harmonics and AC-system interactions
• Coordinate DC protection and fault response
• Evaluate cable and insulation requirements
• Plan HVDC testing and commissioning

Course Outlines

Day 1: HVDC Applications and System Configurations

• Economic and technical application drivers
• Monopole, bipole and back-to-back schemes
• Point-to-point and multiterminal systems
• LCC versus VSC technology selection
• Power rating and voltage selection
• Project design criteria and interfaces

Day 2: Converter Stations and Primary Equipment

• Thyristor and modular multilevel converters
• Converter transformers and valve halls
• Smoothing reactors and DC filters
• AC filters and reactive compensation
• DC switchyard and measurement systems
• Station losses and thermal design

Day 3: HVDC Control and Network Interaction

• Current, voltage and power control
• Extinction angle and firing control
• VSC modulation and energy balancing
• Frequency and reactive-power support
• Weak AC systems and commutation failure
• Dynamic modelling and stability studies

Day 4: DC Faults, Protection and Insulation

• DC fault behaviour and propagation
• Line and converter protection functions
• DC breakers and fault-blocking converters
• Travelling-wave fault location
• Cable, overhead line and electrode design
• DC insulation coordination

Day 5: Studies, Testing and Operation

• Load flow and electromagnetic transients
• Harmonic and resonance studies
• Factory and site acceptance testing
• Energisation and commissioning sequences
• Operational performance and diagnostics
• HVDC project-design workshop