1224 IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery, Vol. 10, No.

3, July 1995

STATIC VAR COMPENSATOR PROTECTION

-
A Working Group of the Substation Protection Subcommittee of the IEEE Power System Relaying Committee:
S.R. Chano, Chairman, A. Elneweihi, Vice-chairman, L. H. Alesi, H. Bilodeau, D.C. Blackburn Jr., L.L. Dvorak,
G.E. Fenner, T.F. Gallen, J.D. Huddleston III, K.A. Stephan, T.E. Wiedman, P.B. Winston

Abstract- Static VAR compensator (SVC) protection practices are HIGH VOLTAGE BUS
presented. Protection schemes comprise a combination of
conventional protective relays as well as protection functions
performed by the control system. This paper describes different
protection functions applicable to SVCs and includes a tabulated Lo
overview of possible SVC protection methods. A section is
dedicated to testing SVC protection systems. The outlined test
procedures may be adopted when commissioning new
installations in order to demonstrate proper protection operation.
Finally, an important aspect of SVC protective schemes is related
to the interactions with transient overvoltages, harmonics,
short-circuits, and geomagnetic induced current (GICs) of the
transmission network. This paper discusses these issues and
identifies areas where careful protection considerations are
required,

1 INTRODUCTlON FC TCR
Static VAR compensators (SVCs) are devices which control
the voltage at their point of connection to the power system by Fig. 1 TCR with fixed shunt capacitors
adjusting their susceptance ( BCON.IROL) to compensate for
reactive power deficiencies. The basic reactive components of HIGH VOLTAGE BUS
SVCs are shunt capacitors and shunt reactors. Reactors are I I

either thyristor-controlled (TCR) or thyristor-switched (TSR).

Shunt capacitors are either fued (FC) or thyristor-switched L V T
(TSC). Based on these principles, various SVC types have been
developed. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 show examples of some typical T
applications.
In general, SVCs are characterized by their ability to rapidly
vary the reactive output to compensate for changing system
conditions. Some typical applications for SVCs are to :
Low volta e bus
l+?- Le="&
@Maintainvoltage at a set level by compensating for varying
loads and correct voltage fluctuations caused by load
rejections and outages. It can also reduce some types of ,
voltage flicker caused by rapidly changing loads such as arc
furnaces or variable speed drives.
'Improve power system stability by providing voltage support.

9 4 SM 4 3 5 - 8 PWRD A paper recommended and approved

by the IEEE Power System Relaying Committee of the
I
.
TSC
-TCR

IEEE Power Engineering Society for presentation at Fig. 2 TCR & TSC
the IEEE/PES 1 9 9 4 Summer Meeting, San Francisco, CA,
July 2 4 - 2 8 , 1 9 9 4 . Manuscript submitted April 4 ,
1 9 9 4 ; made available for printing April 1 8 , 1 9 9 4 . Improve voltage profile at key locations on the netwoi c or
near high voltage direct current (HVDOconverter terminals.
@Suppresssubsynchronousresonance (SSR).
@Minimizetransmission losses by improving the power factor.
.Alleviate phase unbalance if single phase control is used.
Tompensate surge impdance of transmission systems 111.

0885-8977/95/$04.00 0 1994 IEEE


SVC systems come in a variety of arrangements, and are
custom designed for a specific application. From a protective
standpoint, an extensive relaying system is often required for
large SVCs to optimize the equipment operational limits for
maximum utilization. For smaller SVC installations, an
extensive protection scheme may not be justified. In general,
the protection strategy is determined on a case by case basis for
each system.
2 PROTECTION
Generally, the interaction of SVC protective functions with
the power system is an important criterion for the selection and
application of each protection device. In this paper, Section 4
deals with this issue and describes special considerations that
should normally be given in relation to system overvoltages,
harmonics, short-circuit levels, and Geomagnetic Induced
Currents (GICs).
The protection scheme for SVCs is made up of a number of
zones. In some cases, faults in a zone should shut down the
entire SVC system. In other cases, the relaying can be
coordinated so that only the faulted zone is cleared and the SVC
kept in operation with limited capabilities. The protection
usually provided for each zone is described in the following
sections.
Sometimes, these protective functions can be provided as
part of an integrated protective system that is supplied by the
SVC manufacturer, or they can be supplied by the user. In each
case, an agreement on the selection of protective devices and
their settings is required between the user and themanufacturer.
2 . 1 TRANSFORMER PROTECTION
ANSVIEEE (37.91-1985 Guide for Protective Relay
Amlications to Power Transformers [2] has been prepared to
aid in the effective application of relays for the protection of
power transformers. This guide should be applied to
transformers that are part of SVCs. Differential relays, phase
and ground overcurrent relays, gas pressure, low level oil, and
temperature relays have been effectively applied to
transformers as indicated in the above mentioned guide. The
connection of the transformer windings will have a determining
factor in the type of relays and their connections.
2 . 2 BUS PROTECTION
IEEE C37.97 Guide for Protective Relav Applications ta
Power Svstems Buses 131 provides information applicable to
bus protection.
2.2.1 Phase Fault Protection
Multi-phase fault protection of SVC busbars is generally
provided by conventional bus differential or time overcurrent
relays. For some installations, the SVC bus is included in the
protection zone of the transformer differential relays. Time
overcurrent relays are usually used for bus backup protection.
In many cases, the transformer overcurrent relays provide this
function.
1225
2 . 2 . 2 Ground Fault Protection
The voltage supplies to SVC buses may be ungrounded or
grounded through a resistance or impedance. In order to
achieve selective ground fault detection on ungrounded buses,
grounding transformers are sometimes used. They are sized
such that ground fault currents are limited, to reduce damage,
yet large enough to selectively operate ground relays in the
different SVC branches. In addition, typical protection schemes
include:
1. Time overcurrentrelays connected to current transformers
to measure thezero sequencecurrent in the main transformer (if
grounded) or gounding transformer,
2. Time overvoltage relays connected across the
broken-delta secondary windings of a voltage transformer. The
use of only this scheme does not provide fast fault location since
the ground fault could be anywhere in the transformer low
voltage bus and branches.
Ground fault currents on the SVC low voltage bus should be
limited to a value of 500-1500 A to prevent thyristor valve
damage. High-impedance grounding transformers limiting
ground currents to the range of 10 to 100 A can be used for
selective applications. In this regard. ground ovexurrent relays
can then be used in the different SVC branches and
time-coordinated with the high impedance grounding
transformer protection or the SVC low voltage bus
broken-delta zero sequence voltage detection.
2.2.3 Overvoltage Protection
In most installations, relays connected to the bus voltage
transformers (VTs) are provided to protect the entire SVC
systemfromexcessiveovervoltages. The capacitors in the SVC
system are vulnerable to overvoltages and therefore determine
the relay settings. Refer to Section 2.4.4(TSC Protection) for
more details. Thyristor valves are also vulnerable and usually
are provided with overvoltage protection. Refer to Section
2.6. 1 (Thyristor Protection) for more details.
2.3 REACTOR BRANCH PROTECTION
A thyristor-controlled reactor (TCR), or thyristor-switched
reactor (TSR) including its thyristor valve, is usually
considered a separate zone of protection. This zone normally
overlaps with the low side SVC bus differential and coordinates
with the transformer/bus overcurrent zone of protection.
ANSVIEEE C37.109-1988 Guide for the Protection of Shunt
Reactors [41 provides information applicable to the protection
of SVC reactor coils.
In many designs, the reactor branch is connected to the SVC
bus by a relatively slow motor operated disconnect switch. The
relaying discussed below trips the SVC main breaker($, In
some installations, the SVC can be put back on line without the
faulted reactor branch and operated with a limited capability.
2.3.1 Differential Protection
Differentialrelays may be used to detect phase to phase faults
between reactor coils (not turn-to-turn faults). In one scheme
for delta-connected reactors, these relays are connected across
the delta as shown in Fig. 3.
1226
Fig. 3 REACTOR DIFFERENTIAL PROTECTION
2 . 3 . 2 Overcurrent Protection
Multi-phase overcurrent protection is frequently used to
back up the differential. Use of both instantaneous and time
overcurrent is typical. Backup protection for the reactor branch
may be included in the overall backup for the SVC. Ground
overcurrent protection can be provided for each reactor branch
or can be included in the overall SVC bus ground fault
protection discussed in Section 2 . 2 . 2 .
2.3.3 Thermal Overload Protection
The reactor currents are monitored by thermal relays set to
protect the coils from overheating due to thyristor-control
failure and excessive harmonics. These relays have memory
action, and a time constant to match the heating characteristics
of the protected equipment. For some installations, this
protection is provided by the SVC control system. Refer to
Section 2.6.2 (Thyristor Overcurrent Protection).
2 . 3 . 4 Unbalance Protection
One scheme for unbalance protection (device 60 in Fig.4)
uses an overcurrent relay summing the three legs of a
delta-connected reactor, thus measuring current unbalance.
The relaying device, protects for unbalanced reactor currents
caused by shorted turns or a control malfunction. This
protection scheme does not sense system unbalances. The relay
shown in Fig. 4 should incorporate an input filter that allows it to
operate only on the fundamental current. This is required to
avoid operation on triple harmonic currentsthat may flow in the
delta branches under normal operating conditions. This
protection is not applicable for single-phase-controlled SVCs.
Another altemative scheme for unbalance protection can be
provided by measuring negative phase sequence currents
flowing in the reactor branches (device 46 in Fig.4). This relay
will require a setting higher than the expected level of system
unbalance and should be time-delayed to override external
unbalance due U,transient conditions, or phase to ground faults.
2.3.5 Protection bv the Control Svstein
The systems that controls the gating of the thyristor valves
may incorporate checks for firing malfunctions by comparing
presence of valve current with the timing of gating signals. This
featuremayprovideunbalance or negative sequenceprotection.
The SVC control system may provide additional reactor
protection such as current limiting and dc offset monitoring.
Refer to Section 2.6.2 (Thyristor Overcmnt Protection).
2 . 4 CAPACITOR BRANCH PROTECTION
The TSC bank protection includes types familiar to the
protection engineer, such as overcurrent, overvoltage, and
unbalance relaying. Harmonics and Unique bank connections
require specialconsiderationfor the selectionof the scheme and
its settings.
For capacitor protection - ANSVIEEE C37.99 1991 - Guide
forProtectionof Shunt CapacitorBanks r51should be consulted
for the suggested protection associated with capacitor bank
branches.
2.4.1 Unbalance Protection
When a fuse is blown in a capacitor bank, with series groups
of capacitors, an increase in the fundamentalfrequency voltage
develops on the remaining units in the same series group. A
scheme to detect unbalances should be provided to take action
as required. The scheme should include: 1) alarm for low level
of unbalance (overvoltage on remaining units less than 110%);
2) mpping of the capacitor bank for higher level of unbalance
(voltageon remaining units greater than 110%);3) a third level
for high speed tripping on very large unbalance resulting from
Fig. 4 REACTOR UNBALANCE PROTECTION
 1227

arcing faults shorting one or more series groups may be practices vary on the action to be taken upon a misfire. Some
required. may require that the TSC valve withstand a single misfire
The TSC bank is usually connected in delta. The bank is without protection operation (in effect requiring that the valve
usually connected in series/parallel groups with cross be able to withstand a second misfire without damage to the
connections between groups. In the event of a capacitor can valve), while others may accept protection operation on the first
misfireinordertosaveon thecostof aTSCvalve. Protectionfor
failure in a group, current will flow in the cross comection. An
overcurrent scheme fed from a low ratio CT installed in the misfire transients, employing instantaneous overcurrent
cross connection can provide multiple levels of detection. sensors, is usually part of the TSC valve protection in the
Settings should take into account natural unbalances under controls. Refer to Section 2. 6. 2 (Thyristor Overcurrent
normal operating conditions. Overcurrent relays tuned to Protection). However, the effect of misfire has to be considered
fundamental frequency should be used to avoid operation on when determining the settings for the TSC conventional
harmonics flowing under normal conditions. Fig. 5 shows an overcurrent protection.
example of this application. When overcurrent relays are used for limiting reactor
Other unbalance protection schemes may be provided based overload protection applications, the presence of harmonics
on measuring negative or zero sequence current resulting from may require the use of rms based overcurrent relays, where
the unbalance. These schemes are similar to the ones discussedfundamental as well as harmonic currents are measured, with
in Section 2. 3. 4 (reactor unbalance protection) and can appropriate time delays to match the capability of the current
provide backup to the cross connected protection. limiting reactor and capacitor fuses.
2 . 4 . 2 Overcurrent Protection 2 . 4 . 3 Differential Protection
Overcurrent protection for the individual capacitor unitscan Similar differential protection is described in Section
be provided using intemal or external fuses. In addition, 2.3. 1 (Reactor Branch Protection).
overcurrent relay protection of the TSC branch including the 2.4.4 Overvoltape Protection
TSC’s current limiting reactor is usually provided. In setting This protection is usually supplied in the controls with
protection overcurrent relays, the magnitude and time duration backup provided by the SVC bus protection or the TSC
ofinrushandoutmshcurrents,as wellastheeffectofTSCvalve branches.
misfiis should be considered to ensure security.
Harmonics are an important factor to consider when
One of the causes of transient overcurrent in the capacitor specifying the type and settings for the TSC branch. Capacitors
bankis amisfireof theTSCvalve.WhiletheTSCisinab1ocked do not generate harmonics, but provide a low impedance path
mode, accidental firing of the TSC valve at a point on system for harmonics that may be generated by the TCR branch or by
voltage wave of opposite polarity to the capacitor trapped GIC conditions. Even though the supplier of the SVC will have
charge could produce extremely high inrush currents. Utility to take harmonics into consideration when designing the TSC
branch, this is no substitute for providing protection for the
harmonic effects. Refer to Section 4.4(GIC Disturbance) for
more details. ANSI/IEEE Standard 18-1980 specifies that
capacitors can continuously withstand the following: 110% of
ratedrmsvoltage and 120%of rated peakvoltage.including the
harmonic components.
Relays that are tuned to or are designed to operate on
fundamental system voltage only should not be used. This is
because when harmonics are present, peak voltages across the
capacitors are important since they may cause damage to the
capacitor, even though the fundamental component of the
voltage might be within the 110% limit specified. Relays
oprating on peak overvoltageswith appropriate time delays to
match the withstand capability of the capacitor Units should be
used.
2 . 4 . 5 voI t a w e Protection
This protection serves two functions. It provides protection
for the capacitor bank itself against excessive voltage surges
while the TSC is conducting. As a consequence, it provides
protection for the TSC valve if blocking of the TSC is to
immediately follow the voltage surge.
If the protection is provided by the controls. voltage surges of
Fig. 5 CAPACITOR UNBALANCE PROTECTION excessive magnitudes will cause the protection to maintain
conduction of the TSC until the capacitor is discharged to a
1228
more reasonable level. Blocking of the TSC is then allowed.
The setting for this protection should take into account the
voltage rise due to flow of capacitive current into the SVC
transformer and the current limiting reactor connected in series
with the capacitor bank. Voltage surge protection is sometimes
provided by means of a surge arrester across the capacitor bank.
2.5 FILTER PROTECTION
Switchmgof SVC elements will introduce harmonics intothe
power system. Some types of loads such as electric arc furnaces
may also introduce harmonics into the power system. The
magnitude of harmonic voltage generated by the SVC or the
load depends on the type of SVC, the SVC confguration, the
system impedance, and the amount of reactance switched.
In TSC branches. air-core reactors connected in series with
the capacitors limit the rate of change of the inrush current
generated from switching. This series combination also
provides tuned frequency filtering to a specific harmonic order.
In SVC applications,harmoniccurrentsaremainly generated
by the TCR branches. The triple harmonics (3.9, 15 etc. ) are
removed by a delta (or wye ungrounded) connection only if the
SVC is balanced and controlled as a three-phase unit. Even
harmonics are also removed by symmetrical gating of the TCR
thyristors.
A six-pulse thyristor-controlled reactor is formed of three
delta-connected single-phase units to control the firing of the
thyristors. A twelve-pulse TCR employs two six-pulse
thyristor-controlled reactors supplied from the wye and delta
connected secondary windings of the SVC transformer. If the
SVC is a six-pulse TCR typewith a fured three-phase capacitor
bank (FC), additional filters such as 5th. 7th. and a high pass
filter may be needed. Table 1 provides different protection
schemes that can be applied to the filter banks.
2.6 THYRISTOR PROTECTION
Since thyristors allow current to flow in only one direction,
thyristor pairs connected in an anti-paralleled configuration
with each thyristor conducting on alternate half-cycles, allow
the switching or control of altemating current. Valves are made
up of several such pairs in series to achieve the necessary
voltage ratingbf the SVC (5 kV to 35 kV) and to withstand
overvoltage during normal operation. For additional protection
from overvoltage and thyristor failures, one or more redundant
pairs are usually provided. The thyristors are gated into
conduction or fired by gate trigger pulses generated in the
thyristor control system. In TCRs, the thyristor firing can
achieve full or partial conduction by adjusting the gate trigger
pulses in relation to the power system voltage waveform.
Thyristor protection is based on the maximum of-state
voltage and on-state c m n t the thyristor can withstand. These
quantities are governed by the physical makeup and the
operating junction temperature of the thyristor disks. Other
operating properties such as critical rates of voltage and current
rise are accounted for in the design of the thyristor valves and
control equipment.
Thyristors are designed to withstand very specific fault
conditions. However, sendmg the trigger or gating pulses to the
thyristors incorrectly or not properly synchronized with the
waveform of the power system,can damagethe thyristors. This
is called misfiring. A condition of misfiring combined with an
overload will produce the most severe stress to the valve.
System studies may help determine the worst case
conditions. Protection strategies would then be established in
relation to the valve capability and the specified system
conditions. In addition to conventional protective relays, other
devices may provide protective actions.
Thyristor electronics mounted directly on the thyristor valve
may provide some protection. This may include passive
components such as resistors and break-over diodes.
Control equipment may provide protection by monitoring
currents and voltages and triggering the thyristors
appropriately. When the control system is used for protection,
the protective gate trigger pulses will override the firing
required for normal system voltage control conditions.
2.6.1 Overvoltage Protection
The control system may provide overvoltage protection for
valves by suitable firing. For example, if the voltage across a
TCR valve exceeds a set level, all the thyristors in the valve can
be fired together to transfer the overvoltagesto the reactor coils.
A sensing circuit measures the voltage across the thyristors and
either triggers the thyristors directly or sends a signal to the
thyristor control equipment. Continuous firing insures that the
valve will not try to block while its blocking capability is
reduced. If TSC valves are experiencing excessive voltage
surges, the control system can provide protection by
maintaining or blocking conduction to avoid misfiring.
Thyristors electronics may also provide overvoltage
protection to valves. High ohmic resistors can De connected
across each thyristor pair in series to form a grading circuit. The
gradingcircuitwill insure uniform distribution of nominal SVC
system voltage across individual thyristor pairs.
Break-over diodes connected across individual thyristor
pairs may provide additional thyristors protection. The use of
break-over diodes across the TSCs valves might cause
unwantedenergizing of the TSCs during periods of hi& system
voltage. Such energizing would be transient and could generate
excessive harmonics.
In some designs, the TSC thyristor valve is primarily
protected from overvoltagesby a metal oxide arrester connected
across each phase. The arrester is sized taking into account the
peak voltages on the capacitor banks.
2.6.2 Overcurrent Protection
In recent technologies, thyristor valves are protected for
overcurrent by a thermal protection. A thyristor model which
evaluates the junction temperature and hot spot effects may be
provided in the thyristor control system utilizing valve current
and ambient temperature. The thermal model may first initiate
continuous firing if the valve’s blocking capability is
threatened, followed by a mp command. In a reactor branch, a
dc current can be produced. Although this component will

decay, it should be measured to give the proper image to the
thermal model. D e p e n d q on the decay length, continuous
firing for a few seconds may allow the junction to cool down
enough to continue normal operation.
In the TCR, the thyristor control equipment can monitor the
current in the reactors and decrease the conduction to keep the
current below the rating of the valve. This is called partial
conduction and achieves current limiting.
Instantaneous overcurrent protection by the thyristor control
equipment is applicable toTSCs. A misfire when the capacitors
are fully charged after an overload condition would cause ahigh
overcurrent. A typical setting is 4 times nominal peak current.
In addition to continuously firiig the thyristors, the SVC is
usually tripped off-line for this condition.
2.6.3 Other Thyristor Protection
Some SVCs utilize active thyristor electronics located
within the valve which need time to adjust to the impressed
voltage across the valve. The control system does not begin
controlling these thyristors when the SVC is switched on-line
until after a short time delay.
Thyristors or thyristor pairs usually fail in the shorted mode.
The voltage then increases across the remaining thyristors in
series with the failed one(s>. The increased voltage might fail
additional thyristors resulting in a cascading failure. Valve
assemblies are usually designed to allow for some thyristor
failures. Some systems monitor the voltage across or status of
each thyristor pair. Upon detecting one or a low number of
failures an alarm may be given. When enough failures have
occurred in series to endanger the remaining pairs, the valve is
held in conduction, and the SVC is tripped off -line.
Thyristor protection includes monitoiing the operating
temperature of the thyristors and their environment. In liquid
cooled valves, coolant flow and conductivity is monitored in
addition to its temperature. Each thyristor valve requires a
specifiedcoolant flow. Flow through each valve is monitored as
well as total flow. Deionized fluid is used to mitigate the
potential effects of electrolytic action. With the valve’s voltage
impressed on the flow of coolant, high conductivity could cause
a short-circuit path around the thyristors and accelerated
corrosion of thyristor cooling manifolds. The water pumping
equipment usually has a deionizing system to maintain coolant
purity. This part of the cooling system may also be monitored
for conductivity and flow. These monitoring quantities usually
provide alarms with subsequent tripping of the SVC if not
corrected.
Configuration design is also used to reduce stress on the
thyristor valves. In most reactor designs, the reactance is
physically split with the thyristor valve connected between two
coils. This protects the thyristors from overvoltage as a result of
a coil failure by having the other halfcoil provide impedanceor
current limiting for reactor faults.
1229
2.7 GENERAL PROTECTION
The auxiliary suppliesshould be reliable. The loss of cooling
due to the loss of ac will trip the SVC. Two independent ac
supplies with a transfer scheme is required. Similarly, the loss
of dc normally shuts down the controls.
Some additionalprotective functions for the loss of auxiliary
power, breaker failure, and valve hall fire can be considered as
an integral part of an SVC protection system. They may either
initiate an alarm or trip the SVC.
3 TESTING
Thefollowingtestsmay be adopted todemonstrate theproper
design and operation of SVC protection systems.
3.1 DESIGN AND MANUFACTURING TESTS
Manufacturersperform design tests to be sure the control and
protection systems operate as designed. The manufacturer will
also be required to perform type tests to verify a particular new
design. The manufacturingtests verify the equipment meets the
specified tolerances.
The customer in some cases, requires a prototype or the
actual controls be connected to a Transient Network Analyzer
(TNA) to check the operation of the controls and its associated
protective functions. In addition, conventional relays can also
be connected to the TNA or other simulators and tested for their
response to harmonics. This is a convenient time to prove the
controls will protect the device as designed, to optimize
settings, and to determine safety margins.
3.2 COMMISSIONING TESTS
A plan should be developed to define the steps required to
energize the SVC. Contingency plans should be defined.
Special instrumentationsuch as a fault recorder may be useful in
the event of an unexpected operation. Staged fault tests are
optional.The SVC should be systematicallyenergized and load
readings taken to check the correctness of the ac signal inputs
including phasing and ratios [TI.
Grounding requires special attention since high bus currents
can induce excessive currents through the cable shields if radial
grounding is not used. It is necessary to make sure there are no
ground loops.
3.2.1 Cooling
The cooling system is the first subsystem to be checked since
it is independentof the power system and of other protection and
control schemes.Most larger SVCsuse liquid cooling while the
smallerunits use forced air. The liquid units use deionized water
or a water/glycol solution. Flow rate, resistivity of the liquid.
and temperatureshould be measured. Some systems also have a
leak detector.Liquid cooling should be verified against leaks. A
method to verify the piping prior to filling the system is to fill it
with low pressure helium and use a helium sniffer to detect
leaks. If the cooling uses air, the air temperature and air flow
from each fan is monitored and should be checked.
All transducers should be calibrated. All trips and alarms
should also be tested. If there is a redundant pump, the
changeover shouldbe initiated to make sure the transfer occurs
without shutting down the SVC.
1230
3 . 2 . 2 Instrument Transformers
All current transformers (CTs) should be tested as per ANSI /
lEEE C57.13.1.-Guidefor Field T e s h of Relaying C mnt
Transformers 161. This will confii the CT units meet
specification and provides data for future reference.
Iron core voltage transformers should be specified to come
out of saturation within a cycle in order to optimize the SVC
response time. The performance and accuracy should be
factory tested or tested in the field 171.
3.2.3 Main Transformer and Filters
After the normal pre-energization tests, the main transformer
should be energized with no load. With all protections in
service, the phasing should be checked.
The second step is to apply load. If the SVC has filters, they
should be energized. Load readings should be taken to verify
the phasing and ratios.
Afterwards, the fdter should be de-energized with one or few
capacitor units disconnected. Upon re-energizing the filter, the
unbalance relay should receive the Correcterror signal to alarm
or trip as required. The filter should be restored.
3 . 2 . 4 Thyristor Controlled Reactor
With the controls in manual mode, The TCR branch should
be energized at zeroconduction.The conduction should slowly
be increased to the point where suitable load readings can be
taken.
After each of the TCR protection schemes have been
verified, the controlsshould be switched to automaticmode. A
sudden change in reactive power should be applied by
switching-on a capacitor bank or by opening a line. The firing
angle should be automatically adjusted to maintain the voltage.
3 . 2 . 5 Thvristor Switched CaDacitor
With the TCR in service and the control in the manual mode,
adjust the controls to switch-on the TSC and take the load
readings. To prove the TSC responds correctly with the power
system, put the controls in the automatic mode and switch a
reactive load on the system such as a nearby shunt capacitor.
The SVC should then respond to the change in system VARS.
The response time should be measured to verify the SVC meets
the specified requirement.
The unbalance protection should be verified. If the
capacitors are intemally fused, removing one unit only checks
that the protection will operate. However, for externally fused
capacitors, removing one or more fuses will test both the alarm
and trip operation.
3 . 2 . 6 General Tests
All other subsystems, such as entrance alarms, smoke
detectors, ac station service failure, batteq charger, and battery
alarms, should be checked.
The harmonic currents and voltages in the various branches
and through the main transformer should be measured. In
addition, the harmonics on the system should be also be
measured to ensure their levels are within the specified limits.
Each SVC confiiguration should be tested.
3.3 IN-SERVICE TESTING
The in-service testing for the SVC protection system is
similar to any conventionalrelays. The relay calibration should
be checked.The scheme should be test tripped toverify the logic
and the wiring.
4 INTERACTION OF SVCS WlTH THE POWER
SYSTEM - PROTECTION ASPECTS
The application of SVCs can in itself compound power
system problems. Special considerations should be given to
problems such as overvoltages. harmonics, and geomagnetic
disturbances; all of which will be discussed further.
4 . 1 TRANSIENT OVERVOLTAGES
Transient overvoltages caused by system faults or normal
switching operations are well documented. These recognized
overvoltageconditions are accounted for in the design of surge
protection devices applied to power system equipment. The
application of SVCs may increase the potential for excessive
overvoltages.
Incases where an SVC is directly connected to a transmission
line, a fault which de-energizes the transmission source may
result in the SVC capacitor banks and transformer being
coupled to the line. The resonance interaction between the
capacitance of the SVC and the saturated reactance of the
transformer can generate an oscillation which may result in
substantial overvoltages. The impedance characteristics of the
transmission line can add to the severity of this phenomenon.
From a protection standpoint, if it appears that excessive
overvoltagesmay result, relaying schemes which sense loss of
source should immediately block the TSC and trip if fixed
capacitor banks.
Transformer energization affects system voltages.
Temporary overvoltages may cause surge arresters to operate
for several cycles. The magnetizing currents of the transformer
become extremely high due to saturation of the transformer
cores. The inrush currents contain a full range of harmonics
beside their fundamental and dc components.Furthermore, the
inrush phenomenon can last many cycles and can activate
overvoltagerelays on the secondary side of SVCs.In addition to
overvoltage relay activation, ground overcurrent protection on
the high voltage side of SVC transformers can operate and trip
the SVC breaker under inrush conditions. Finally, negative
phase sequencerelays can also be activated to initiate an alarm
or a trip signal.
Protection coordination studies should be implemented so
that SVCs remain in service over the range of normal system
operation and transient conditions. Both overvoltage and
negative phase sequence relays are time-delayed to prevent
misoperation on transient system conditions.
Overcurrent relays on the high voltage side of SVC’smain
transformers as well as those in the SVC branches should be
coordinated and time delayed in accordance with the system
overvoltage cycles in order to prevent protection misoperation
during network transient conditions.
In general, the overvoltage control capability of SVCs,in
terms of fast response and the ability to Compensate excessive

reactive power, enable the SVC to withstand temporary
overvoltages. Transformer windings and reactor in the TCR
branches should be able to withstand the overvoltage cycle
imposed by the power system.
4 . 2 HARMONICS
Particular attention should be paid to harmonic currents
injected from SVCs into the system network. To determine the
interaction of SVCs with the system, adequateknowledgeof the
network impedance as a function of the frequency is required to
properly evaluate the effect of harmonic distortion in the
network and to detect possible harmonic resonances at the point
of connection.
Harmonic current generation from the TCR, characteristic
and non-characteristic harmonics, are calculated in the early
design stage. The maximum individual and maximum total
harmonic voltage distortion on the high voltage bus caused by
the compensators are then evaluated. The results of those
studies are analyzed in order to ensure proper SVC operation in
normal conditions and minimize the distortions on the network
to within permissible levels. If harmonics are a problem, filters
are added to reduce them to an acceptable level.
4 . 2 . 1 Characteristic Harmonics
By definition, the order of characteristic harmonics is given
*
by pn 1,where p is the pulse number and n is an integer 1.2.3 ...
Characteristic harmonics are those generated inherently by the
TCR branch of a perfectly designed compensator in a fully
balanced power system. TheTCR branch is considered as being
a natural current source of odd harmonics. However, the 5th
and 7th harmonics can be eliminated if a 12 pulse TCR
configuration with a double secondary transformer is used.
Furthermore, any order of triple harmonics can be trapped by
connecting the TCR branch in delta thereby eliminating
injection of those harmonics into the system. Unbalances in
delay firing between the 3 phases of the TCR can also produce
unbalanced conditions. These unbalances are usually
minimized with a proper design to within acceptable levels.
Therefore, no impact on protection systems is expected.
4 . 2 . 2 Non-Characteristic Harmonics
Any unbalance in power system voltages, SVC branch
impedances, and thyristor valve firing will generate
non-characteristic harmonics. Unequal firing angles between
positive and negative half-cycles will generate dc current, even
harmonic current, and more specifically 2nd harmonic current.
The magnitude is a function of the firing. However, if the
system voltage contains an even order harmonic voltage, an
even order harmonic current will also be generated in the TCR,
although symmetrical firing exists between positive and
negative half-cycles.
There could also be generation of triple harmonics which are
considered in this case non-characteristic. In fact, a voltage
unbalance at the TCR branch will inject into the network the
positive and negative sequence components of the triple
harmonics. Zero sequence components are trapped in the TCR
delta. The unbalance condition is created mainly by the
1231
presence of negative phase sequencecomponents in the system
voltage and by small variation in the reactor inductances due to
manufacturing tolerances.
4.2.3 Impact on Protection
The adverseeffect of harmonics on protection is negligible if
systems such as thyristor f h g circuits, synchronizingcircuits,
and other control functions are designed to minimize f h g
inaccuracies, effectively eliminating non-characteristic
harmonics. Tests verify the performance.
If harmonic resonance is experienced, the SVC bus voltage
may exceed specifiedlevels. Overvoltagerelays and the control
system would trip the equipment to prevent damage if this
0CCUT.S.
To summarize, any harmonic currents or dc components
resulting from fuing asymmetries, and manufacturing
equipment tolerances should be considered. Appropriate
equipment ratings including all possible harmonic
combinations should be selected. System voltage unbalances
increase the production of harmonics by SVCs. Asymmetries
and equipment overloading should be verified under transient
system conditions to verify the protection security.
4.3 SYSTEM SHORT-CIRCUITS
SVCs can improve system stability during faults.
Performance of SVCs and their associated protection systems
under fault conditions is p r e d e t e d e d by taking into account
the short-circuit levels and the dynamic behavior of the system
as seen from the compensators.
Minimum and maximum short-circuit levels are usually
specifiedso that optimal SVC operation is achieved without any
modifcation to the control and protection systems. Maximum
network short-circuit levels should be considered when
evaluating through-fault currents for the stability of the SVC
high voltage bus differential protection.
Proper relay settings should be selected with special regard
to system short-circuit levels. Protection levels and time delay
settings should be selected and coordinated with expected
power system disturbances.
SVC main transformer differential relays are in some cases
blocked for overvoltagesexceeding a certain level. Blocking is
necessary toprevent misoperationduring systemfault inception
and clearing because 5th harmonic excitation during system
fault clearing may affect the differential protection.
Alternatively. a 5th harmonicrestraint differentialrelay may be
used. Internal transformer fault protection is provided by other
less sensitive transformer protection.
4 . 4 IMPACT OF GIC DISTURBANCE
ON SVC PROTECTION RELAYS
During geomagneticdisturbances, low frequency (quasi-dc)
cufients flow in the earth and in conductors of the transmission
system which provide a parallel path with the earth. These
induced currents (GICs) usually enter and exit the transmission
system through solidly grounded transformer neutrals. The
dc-like voltages can cause asymmetrical transformer core
1232

saturation resulting in undesired voltage and current harmonics measuring the peak voltage of the resultant capacitor distorted
on the SVC equipment. wave form is required to effectivelyprotect the capacitors over
the full range of overvoltage thus offering the possibility of
Abnormal operating conditions resulting in high levels of 2nd coordination with respect to the capacitor withstand curve.
harmonic voltages can exceed the specified harmonic design
requirements. To nptimize the availability of SVCs during GIC 5 CONCLUSIONS
conditions, proper evaluations should be made with regard to
the thermal withstand capabilities of the equipment.
The working group has presented a general overview of
The harmonics presence in the power system have several suggested protection application methods for SVC equipment.
undesirable or unexpected effects. These effects may af€ect the Main and backup functions are provided by conventional relays
capacitor protection, the transformer protection, and the control and by the SVC controls. The latter generally provides
system [9,10,11]. The quasi-dc currents may also bias the HV protection against abnormal operating conditions.
CTs to a certain extent, and reduce their performance if faults
intemal or extemal to the SVC occur during GIC [lll. This paper has also summarized various types of tests that
may be performed on new or existing SVC installations in order
Undesired protection action resulting from low level relay to verify proper operation of the relaying and corresponding
settings usually below the thermal capability of the equipment input sources.TNA tests are recommended to verify the correct
should be considered. ‘Ielay characteristics should have a good response of the control system and associated protection
replica of the true rms overload capability of the equipment. functions. Protection settings and safety margins can be
optimized.
The SVC transformer differential protection will probably be
restrained by 2nd and other harmonics during GIC, and is Interactions between the SVCs and the power system have
therefore unlikely to operate undesirably. However, the same little impact on the protection system. assuming the SVC
harmonics may restrict the ability of the differential protection controls and relays settings are adjusted to provide the
to sense light intemal faults if such faults should occur during optimized response over the range of normal system operation,
GIC. A sudden oil or gas pressure relay may be the best means of transient, and faulted conditions. The only noticeable effect on
detecting light intemal faults under such conditions. Reduced SVC protective functions occurs with the presence of
protection during GIC is a concern, because the transformer unpredictable system harmonic voltage and current sources
may be stressedunusuallyby the asymmetrical saturationof the such as during GIC disturbance.
core.
REFERENCES
System harmonics during GIC may excite SVC resonances
and adversely affect the control system [lo]. Analysis of such
conditions is complicated by the fact that the SVC resonant l.T.J.E. Miller Reactive Power Control in Electric SvstemS 1982
frequencies change as the degree of compensation changes. Publication by John Wiley & SonsJnc.
2.ANSIfiEEE C37.91-1985 Guide for Protective Relav Applications
Adequatemonitoring of system quantities including all possible Power Transformers.
frequencies of interest may be important in analyzing SVC 3.IEEE C37.97 Guide for Protective Relav Applications to Power
operation during GICs. Thus the frequency response and Svstems Buses,
number of points of monitoring systems assume extra 4.ANSI/IEEE C37.109-1988 Guide for the Protection of Shunt
importance in SVCs likely to be subjected to GICs. Reactors.
5.ANSI/IEEE C37.99 1991- Guide for Protection of Shunt Capacitor
TSC reactors and capacitors are the most exposed elements Banks.
under GIC conditions since the capacitors offer a lower 6.IEEE C57.13.1.-Guide for Field Testing of Relaving Current
impedance path for higher order harmonics [81. Peak value Transformers,
overcurrent relays should not be used to protect TSC reactors, 7. G.E. Fenner, G.Moreau. MSarkozi, TransAlta Utilities SVC
‘I

otherwise improper protection action may result. Inverse-time Commissioning Tests at Langdon, Alberta,” CEA PSP&O HVDC
rms overcurrent relays taking into consideration the thermal Subsection, Toronto,Ontario.March 1986.
capacity of the reactor offer a definite improvement to the 8.H.Bilodeau. S.Chano, J-P. Chayer, “ Effect of
availability of SVCs under such conditions. Geomagnetically-Induced Currents on Static Var Compensator
Protection Systems,”CEA, Power System Planning and Operation
If capacitor overvoltage relays are provided on the low Division, Vancouver, B.C., March 1992.
voltage bus of the SVCs, the measured voltage does not 9.ManitobaHVDCResearchCentre, GeomagneticInduced Current
“

necessarily reflect the real overvoltage stress imposed on the Effect on SVCOperation”. CEA reportNo. 316 T745,March 1990.
capacitor units when subjected to harmonic distortion. This is 10.E.V. Larsen and J.M. Cutler, Effect of Geomagnetically-induced
“

Current on Static Var Compensators ”, Presented at EPRI GIC

because of the limiting reactor connected in series with the Conference,November, 1989.
capacitor bank. The voltage reference point taken across the 11.IEEE PSRC Report,‘‘ The Effects of Solar Magnetic Disturbances
capacitors is more appropriate as a detection principle. on Protective Relaying ”,Part of IEEE Special Publication
Altematively, voltage across the capacitor bank can be derived 90TH0357-PWR Geomagnetic Storm Cycle 22: Power System
”

from current measurement in the TSC branches. Relays Problems on the Horizon ”, July 1990
 1233
TABLE 1

OVERVIEW OF SUGGESTED SVC PROTECTION METHODS

PROTECTION 'ROTECTION 'ROTECTION

NOTES
ZONE DEVICE FUNCTION

Transformer 87 Differential
501 51 3vercurrent
63 I 4 9 1 71 ;as pressure I Temperature I
Low level oil
51 N ground overcurrent
~-~~ ~

Low Voltage Bus 87 Differential

50151 Dvercurrent
59 ph-ph Dvervoltage
59 G Dvervoltage (open corner delta) Ground faults
51 N Ground overcurrent Used with grounding transformer

TSC 6OC Unbalance Cross connec$ed unbalance measurement

87 Differential
50151 Overcurrent Branch faults or limiting reactor overloads
46 Negative phase sequence Unbalance
60 Zero phase sequence Unbalance in lieu of 46
59 Overload Capacitor overvoltage using current measurement
50N Ground overcurrent Branch faults

TCR I TSR 87 Differential

50151 Overcurrent
49 Overload Reactor thermal overload
46 Negative phase sequence Reactor branch unbalance
60 Zero phase sequence Reactor branch unbalance
SON Ground overcurrent Branch faults

Thyristor valves in Overvoltage Arrestors across each valve for TSC

TCR I TSR I TSC and break-over diodes for TCR I TSR
Overcurrent Conventional overcurrent
or overload provided in the controls
Thyristor failure Monitor thyristors
Thermal model

Filters 59N Neutral voltage shift Detect failed cans or reactor

60C Unbalance Detect failed cans via crass connection
50151 Overcurrent
59 Overvoltage
87 Differential Filter differential
50151N Ground overcurrent Ground fault detection

Temperature Alarm and trip for coolant temperature

Flow Alarm and trip for coolant flow
Resistivity Alarm and trip for coolant resistivity
Leakage L o a of fluid
Transfer failure or power lass