Geomagnetically Induced Current Impact on Power Transformer and Neutral Protection Methods

Geomagnetically induced current (GIC) is a geomagnetic phenomenon. Inducing this current in power grid can cause damage the transformers by creating hot spots, increases the losses of power system and causes some problems in the electrical energy transmission process to the consumers. GIC can make the transformer to operate in its magnetic saturation region and therefore to increase the reactive power and harmonics by the transformer. This paper introduces the GIC and its impacts on the power systems and power transformers. Moreover, several methods to confront this destructive phenomenon are investigated and their merits and drawbacks are proposed using computer simulations of a power system in the presence of GIC. Increasing the sensitivity of the neutral wire leads to faster changes in the power system when a problem occurs in the neutral wire. So, system operation in normal case and in the presence of the GIC must be realized and all these involve a comprehensive control of power system.

کلیدواژه ها:

Sun storm ، geomagnetic effect ، Power Transformer ، THD