Lightning and electrical switching present challenges to the electrical system. Pulse generators are crucial devices in these tests, simulating these extreme events. They ensure the resistance and robustness of electrical equipment, maintaining grid safety and smooth operation.
The importance of pulse generators for the withstand capability of electrical equipment
The advancement of the power supply system required the interconnection of generating centers to consumer centers through transmission systems. However, due to the extensive distance between these points, transmission systems are exposed daily to adverse weather conditions.
Therefore, it is crucial for these systems to withstand severe weather and climatic events, in addition to having robust infrastructure and advanced monitoring technologies.
Investing in these systems is essential to ensure the reliability of electrical energy transportation, avoiding interruptions that can cause economic losses and significant impacts on people's daily lives.
Lightning and Switching Tests: Assessing the resistance and performance of electrical equipment
Lightning and switching tests are procedures carried out to test the resistance and performance of electrical equipment under adverse conditions, such as lightning strikes and electrical switching. These tests aim to ensure the safety and reliability of the equipment, as well as to verify compliance with specific standards and regulations.
Lightning Tests
These are conducted to simulate the effects of lightning on electrical equipment. They involve the application of high-intensity transient overvoltages to verify if the equipment can withstand these discharges without damage. These tests help evaluate equipment protection against lightning-induced overvoltages and ensure the continuity of electrical operations.
Switching Tests
These are conducted to assess the ability of electrical equipment to withstand short-circuit currents generated during maneuvers, such as breaker closures. They help verify if the equipment can handle these short-circuit currents without damage or compromising its functionality.
In summary, lightning and switching tests play a fundamental role in ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical systems. They are usually conducted in specialized laboratories, where controlled conditions can be created to simulate these discharges.
This is where Pulse Generators come into play, accurately simulating voltage and current surges that occur naturally due to atmospheric phenomena or electrical system maneuvers. These generators play a fundamental role in withstand tests, allowing equipment evaluation under controlled conditions and replicating the challenges faced in the field.
How do pulse generators operate during electrical tests?
To generate voltage pulses, the most commonly used method is through capacitive systems, where stored energy is rapidly released via resistors, resulting in a waveform with a steep front and a smoother tail.
The waveform generated varies according to the type of pulse to be reproduced and the characteristics defined by specific standards for each test. This approach allows accurately simulating desired conditions and conducting tests according to established standards.
This is where Pulse Generators come into play, accurately simulating voltage and current surges that occur naturally due to atmospheric phenomena or electrical system maneuvers. These generators play a fundamental role in withstand tests, allowing equipment evaluation under controlled conditions and replicating the challenges faced in the field.
Get to know HVEX pulse generators!
HVEX Pulse Generators are important tools for conducting lightning and switching tests, allowing the simulation of transient overvoltages and verifying the resistance and performance of electrical equipment.
The HVEX voltage impulse test system is the only national manufacturer of this type of equipment. It is designed to generate impulse voltages according to the NBR IEC 60060-1:2013 standard, which establishes the requirements for high-voltage tests. The measurement system has a fast response time and is specially designed to ensure that control and measurement systems are not affected by electromagnetic interference.
Additionally, the low response time measurement system and protection against electromagnetic interference ensure the reliability of the results obtained during tests.
1. Voltage impulse generator
Conventional voltage impulse generators are larger and more robust devices, designed for installation in laboratories or fixed locations.
They have a high voltage and current generation capacity, allowing the simulation of surges of great magnitude. These generators are widely used in resistance and withstand tests of electrical equipment, especially in specialized laboratories.
They play a fundamental role in simulating events such as lightning strikes, electrical system maneuvers, and other phenomena that can result in voltage surges. Their application aims to ensure that equipment properly handles these adverse conditions and ensures their correct operation in the field.
Components:
A: Charging Capacitor;
B: Tail Resistors;
C: Charging Resistor (input);
D: Grounding Resistor;
E: Trigger Module;
F: High Voltage Source;
G: Rectifier Diode;
H: Voltage Divider;
2. Portable voltage impulse generator
Portable voltage impulse generators are compact and easily transportable devices. They are designed to be smaller and lighter compared to conventional models. Although they have the capacity to generate high voltages and currents, this capacity is generally lower compared to conventional generators. These generators are suitable for testing medium or low-power electrical equipment.
Their main application is in field tests, where mobility is essential. They are used to evaluate the resistance of electrical equipment in real situations, such as substations or transmission lines. Additionally, they are useful in remote locations where the installation of a conventional generator would not be feasible. With these portable generators, it is possible to conduct tests practically and efficiently in different environments and operating conditions.
These devices play an important role in verifying the resistance and withstand capability of electrical equipment, providing a flexible and convenient solution for conducting field tests. Their mobility and compact size allow them to be easily transported and used in different locations, ensuring comprehensive evaluation of equipment robustness in real situations.
Components:
A. Command station and variable source;
B. Elevating source;
C. Rectifier diode;
D. Resistive voltage divider;
E. Automatic grounding system;
F. Loading limiting resistor;
G. Charging capacitor;
H. Spark gap;
I. Waveform adjustment resistor (Tail);
J. Waveform adjustment resistor (Front);
K. Resistive capacitive voltage divider;
Voltage impulse generators are more suitable for laboratory tests and high-power equipment, while portable voltage impulse generators are more practical for field tests on medium or low-power equipment. Both play an important role in ensuring the resistance and withstand capability of electrical equipment to voltage surges.
3. Current impulse generator
A current impulse generator is a device used in electrical tests to generate short-duration, high-magnitude current pulses. It is designed to simulate the electrical stress conditions that electrical equipment may face during events such as short circuits or electrical system maneuvers.
The main purpose of a current impulse generator is to evaluate the ability of electrical equipment to withstand and resist these current surges. By applying a high-intensity current pulse, it is possible to verify if the equipment handles this extreme condition without damage or compromising its performance.
These generators are widely used in tests of high-power electrical equipment, such as transformers, circuit breakers, high-voltage cables, and other components of the power system.
It is important to highlight that tests with current impulse generators must be conducted following appropriate safety standards and procedures, as the high currents involved can pose significant risks. The use of suitable protective equipment and the adoption of safety measures are necessary to ensure the integrity of the tested equipment and the safety of the operators involved in the test.
Components:
A. Charging capacitors;
B. Spark gap;
C. Load voltage divider;
D. Rectifier diode;
Discover HVEX: Your national partner in pulse generators!
When it comes to pulse generators, HVEX stands out as the undisputed leader and the only national manufacturer. We offer customized solutions designed to meet the unique needs of each client. Our pulse generators are designed and manufactured according to the highest standards, in total compliance with the renowned standard NBR IEC 60060-1:2013. This ensures that our equipment generates impulse voltages with precision and reliability, allowing high-performance tests. Additionally, our state-of-the-art measurement system has an ultra-fast response, providing accurate results without any electromagnetic interference.
By choosing HVEX, you opt for exceptional quality, reliability, and performance. Our pulse generators are carefully designed to meet your specific needs, putting control power in your hands.
Join us and discover why so many customers trust HVEX as their reliable partner in superior quality pulse generators. Contact us and elevate your electrical tests to a new level of excellence with HVEX!