Solving EMC Problems in the Design of New HV Test Laboratory

The paper deals with solving electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) problems in the design of a new, case study, industrial high voltage test laboratory, intended to be used for testing of transformers and other apparatus up to 550 kV rated voltage. Modern high voltage test facilities are equipped, apart from primary test devices like AC, DC and impulse voltage generators etc., also with sophisticated numerical measuring instruments and informatics technology. Since such devices are sensitive to transient overvoltages, the highest degree of EMC is to be secured. This can be achieved by proper earthing and screening of test laboratory, what shall be designed in a way to satisfy all requirements conditioned by building lightning protection, personal protection and system earthing, avoiding electromagnetic compatibility disturbances at the same time. One of the main tasks is solving electromagnetic compatibility problems caused by outdoor electromagnetic disturbances originating from various unknown sources. Those disturbances and interferences may seriously influence measuring accuracy and readings of test devices, what consequently leads to false results. The stated is especially relating to partial discharge measurements. As to avoid such disturbances, the laboratory shall be completely screened with a net forming optimally designed Faraday cage. On the other hand, at high voltage tests with impulse voltages, especially with chopped tail waves, steep transient overvoltages may be generated. As a consequence, high transient potential differences between particular points along the earth electrode may occur, what can even lead to flashovers between parts of it. Therefore is of utmost importance to provide proper earthing and low inductance current return path for impulse high voltage test equipment where high frequency transients are to be anticipated. Improper earthing and bonding may result, apart from mentioned flashovers, in severe induced voltages in secondary cables with consequential influence on test results, possible destruction of measuring instruments and hazardous touch voltages for personnel. For analyzing transient potential differences, it is important to model, with maximum accuracy, impulse test circuit (impulse generator, chopping spark gap, voltage divider, Faraday cage, fundament earth electrode, earthing strips, earthing rods etc.). Magnitude of transient potential difference between particular points is proportional to earth electrode inductance, i.e. low inductance of earth electrode will result in decrease of transient potential difference.