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SEPTEMBER 30TH THRU OCTOBER 3RD OF 2018 / RECIFE / PE /BRASIL

Belo Monte HVDC Transmission System – Dynamic Performance Study for

±800 kV, 4000 MW, Xingu to Estreito Interconnection in PSCAD and RTDS

Fernando Cattan Jusan* Eduardo de M. Brandi

FURNAS BMTE
Brazil Brazil
Igor Leitão Spinelli Sun Zheng
ELETRONORTE BMTE
Brazil Brazil

SUMMARY

This paper summarizes the studies carried out to set the control system parameters and evaluate the
dynamic performance of the ±800 kV, 4000 MW, Xingu to Estreito HVDC bipole associated to the
integration of Belo Monte hydro power plant.
The HVDC controller parameters have been optimized to meet the specified performance for a number
of AC system representations, operating conditions and fault locations. The off-line transient
simulation program PSCAD was used for the simulations with a very detailed and precise digital
model of the control and protection system of Bipole 1 and suitable network equivalents. The aim of
the study was to verify the stability and effectiveness of the designed control system and the dynamic
interactions between the HVDC system and the AC network, particularly on the aspects related to
power recovery after faults, commutation failure performance, voltage/frequency control and damping
of electromechanical oscillations. The multi-infeed dynamic interactions with other HVDC schemes
(Itaipu and Rio Madeira projects) were also assessed.
Dynamic Performance Tests (DPT) have been conducted to confirm the off-line simulation results and
verify the HVDC control hardware and software implementation. The DPT consists of a set of real-
time hardware-in-the-loop simulations using RTDS and a physical replica of the HVDC C&P
equipment. This paper discusses the results of both PSCAD and RTDS simulations.
The study concluded that a robust HVDC control system design was developed and that the specified
dynamic performance requirements will generally be met, even during severe contingencies in the
power system.

KEYWORDS

Belo Monte, HVDC, Dynamic Performance, PSCAD, RTDS, Control system.

* Rua Real Grandeza, 219 – Sala E-110, Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
E-mail: cattan@furnas.com.br
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1. Introduction
The Belo Monte hydroelectric generation complex is located in the state of Para in the north of Brazil
and has an installed capacity of approximately 11 GW (18 x 611 MW). Due to environmental
constraints related to the Amazon basis, it uses a run-of-river design with very small reservoirs.
Network planning studies indicated that the integration of Belo Monte into the Brazilian power system
would require a large reinforcement of the North-Southeast long distance transmission interconnection
to enable power transfer between sub-systems [1]. The chosen technical solution comprised two point-
to-point ±800 kV HVDC LCC bipoles, 4.000 MW each, connecting Xingu 500 kV substation (a few
km from Belo Monte) to two distinct point of connections in the southeast region. Each bipole was
offered by the national regulatory authority (ANEEL) as independent transmission concessions in
separated public auctions.
The development of the first bipole (Bipole 1) is under responsibility of the consortium Belo Monte
Transmissora de Energia (BMTE), a special purpose company formed by private and state-owned
utilities: State Grid Brazil Holding S.A. (51%), Furnas (24.5%) and Eletronorte (24.5%). The terminal
converter stations are supplied by SIEMENS. Bipole 1 started commercial operation in December
2017, connecting Xingu to Estreito 500 kV substation, in the south of Minas Gerais state, through a
bipolar overhead transmission line with a total length of 2.084 km. This is the first ±800 kV scheme in
Brazil and also the first HVDC scheme embedded in the Brazilian AC network, i.e. where the HVDC
system runs in parallel to the existing AC system. The second bipole (Bipole 2) is planned to begin
operation by the end of 2019 and will be connected to Terminal Rio 500 kV substation in the southeast
region, distant approximately 2400 km from Xingu. Bipole 2 is owned by a different owner, which
chose a different supplier to design, test and manufacturer the components, systems and equipment of
the converter stations. The near-future integration of the two bipoles in this multi-vendor/multi-owner
environment represents an additional challenge to the overall project.
This paper summarizes the studies carried out to set the control system parameters and evaluate the
dynamic performance of Bipole 1 against various types of disturbances, such as: step responses,
converter transformer energisation, AC system faults (single-phase and three-phase), loss of
generation units, AC filter switching, short-circuits within the converters and along the DC line,
converter misfiring, pole/bipole blocking, etc. A number of operating conditions and system models
were considered in the study.
The study was conducted with the off-line transient simulation program PSCAD [2] using a very
detailed and precise digital model of the C&P system of Bipole 1 and suitable network equivalents.
The aim of this study was to verify the stability and effectiveness of the designed control system and
the dynamic interactions between the HVDC system and the AC network, particularly on the aspects
related to power recovery after faults, commutation failure performance, voltage/frequency control
and damping of electromechanical oscillations. The multi-infeed dynamic interactions with other
HVDC schemes (Itaipu and Rio Madeira projects) were also assessed.
Dynamic Performance Tests (DPT) have been conducted as part of the Factory Acceptance Tests
(FAT) to confirm the off-line simulation results and verify the HVDC control hardware and software
implementation. The DPT consists of a set of real-time hardware-in-the-loop simulations using RTDS
[3] and a physical replica of the HVDC C&P equipment. This paper discusses the results of both
PSCAD and RTDS simulations.

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2. Network models and load flow scenarios

The Technical Annex issued by ANEEL for the auction of Bipole 1 [4] requested that the project
demonstration of compliance was divided into two main stages:
 Concept stage → in this stage, the network configuration was as defined by the transmission
expansion plan at the time of the auction. Network equivalent models were provided in
PSCAD format and attached to the bid documentation. Equipment specification and purchase
order should be done based on the results of this stage, so all technical and performance
requirements are fulfilled.
 Detailed stage → in this stage, deviations from the original network configuration and data
should be considered. New network equivalent models should be developed by the
transmission owner. Some performance requirements could be relaxed, but new control
functions or changes in control settings might be required to ensure safe and stable operation.
The dynamic performance was demonstrated with two different types of models for the AC network:
(i) Thevenin sources, (ii) Load flow models (network equivalents).
The circuit model of the Thevnin sources is shown in Figure 1. The sources were adjusted to low and
intermediate short-circuit levels, using the parameters shown in Table 1. The source models were used
in both concept and detailed stages to study AC and DC-side faults, as well as step responses and
switching operations.

Figure 1 – Thevenin source model

Table 1 – Parameters for Thevenin source models

Power
Terminal SCL (GVA) X/R LP (H) RP (Ω) RS (Ω)
Direction
X→E Minimum 18.3 10 0.03608 545.1 1.0201
X→E Intermediate 28.0 10 0.02358 356.26 0.6667
Xingu
E→X Minimum 15.3 10 0.043155 651.97 1.2202
E→X Intermediate 23.0 10 0.02871 433.7 0.8117
X→E Minimum 17.04 10 0.03875 585.4 1.096
X→E Intermediate 30.2 10 0.02186 330.3 0.6182
Estreito
E→X Minimum 17.9 10 0.03688 557.27 1.0429
E→X Intermediate 31.1 10 0.02123 320.75 0.6003

The load flow models have been used to study only AC and DC-side faults. The following sub-
sections briefly describe the network models and load flow scenarios used in each stage for the
Dynamic Performance Study (DPS). In both stages, detailed planning models (i.e. no vendor-specific
models) were used to represent the other HVDC schemes (Belo Monte Bipole 2, Itaipu and Rio
Madeira).

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The basis for the development of the network equivalents is the simplified single-line diagram shown
in Figure 2. Dashed lines correspond to transmission lines represented in the Concept Stage models
but not in the Detailed Stage models due to unexpected delays or cancellation of construction works.
Figure 3 shows a simplified diagram of Bipole 1. Converter valves, converter transformers (including
saturation), harmonic filters and smoothing reactors were represented in details in the simulations.

Figure 2 – Simplified single-line diagram of the AC network

Figure 3 – Simplified diagram of the Xingu-Estreito ±800 kV, 4000 MW HVDC Bipole

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AC and DC transmission lines were represented by frequency-dependent distributed parameter
models. Synchronous generators were represented by detailed machine models including voltage
regulators and speed governors. The network equivalents were calculated and validated against the full
system model using short-circuit, load flow and stability programs. The network models were
originally developed in PSCAD and then converted to RTDS for hardware-in-the-loop tests.

2.1. Concept stage load flow models

Three network models have been provided with the bid documentation in PSCAD v4.2.1:
(a) “HVDCV2g2_2L_EQV.psc” → this model corresponds to the maximum power transfer from
North to Southeast region, with maximum generation at Belo Monte and Tucurui power plants,
nominal power at Bipole 1 (4.000 MW, X→E) and light load level in the Southeast area (minimum
short-circuit level at the inverter side). No other HVDC links are represented in this model.
(b) “HVDCV2g2_7P_EQV.psc” → this scenario is characterized by a dry season in the North region,
with Belo Monte running with no power generation (only three machines operating as synchronous
condensers) and Tucurui with reduced dispatch. Bipole 1 is transmitting 3270 MW in reverse direction
(E→X) and the Southeast area is in heavy load. No other HVDC links are represented in this model.
(c) “MULTI-INFEED4.psc” → the operating condition in this model is similar to model (a), but with
an extended representation of the AC network, particularly in the Southeast area, including detailed
planning models of other existing HVDC links (Itaipu and Rio Madeira). Therefore, the multi-infeed
interactions among all nearby inverters were properly evaluated. A few dynamic sources in the
Southeast region have been included to improve the dynamic behavior of the network equivalent.
North and Southeast network models are linked by a few transfer impedances at selected busbars.

2.2. Detailed stage load flow models

The detailed stage models consider updated network configuration and system data. A more detailed
multi-infeed representation of the Southeast area was considered in all models, including other nearby
HVDC links and several dynamic sources. Four models have been developed in PSCAD v4.6.2:
(a) “EQV2018_NEXP_ELOS.pscx” → this model corresponds to network configuration for year 2018
with maximum power transfer from North to Southeast. Bipole 1 is transmitting 4.000 MW in forward
direction (X→E).
(b) “EQUIV2018_SEXP_ELOS.pscx” → this model corresponds to network configuration for year
2018 with maximum power transfer from Southeast to North. Bipole 1 is transmitting 3.270 MW in
reverse direction (E→X).
(c) “2019_NEXP_Dinamic_13.pscx” → this model corresponds to network configuration for year
2019 with maximum power transfer from North to Southeast. Bipole 1 is transmitting 4.000 MW in
forward direction (X→E). A detailed planning model of Bipole 2 Xingu – Terminal Rio is included.
(d) “2019_SEXP_V16” → this model corresponds to network configuration for year 2019 with
maximum power transfer from Southeast to North. A few Belo Monte machines are operating as
synchronous condensers. A detailed planning model of Bipole 2 Xingu – Terminal Rio is included.
More information on the network models development and validation can be found in [5].

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3. Performance requirements
The dynamic performance of the HVDC scheme should comply with the following performance
requirements defined in ANEEL’s Technical Annex [4]:
 The performance requirements are applied for AC faults of normal duration (~100ms)
followed by a single circuit trip in the complete system (N-1 criteria);
 The HVDC scheme should restore 90% of the pre-fault power within 220ms after fault
clearing, without further reduction in power;
 Subsequent commutation failures after fault clearing are not allowed;
 No inverter commutation failures are allowed for AC faults at the rectifier side;
 The minimum AC voltage in the first power swing after clearing a fault on the AC side must
be greater than 0.8 pu;
 In the event of a DC line fault, the control system must restore 90% of the pre-fault power
within 150ms, excluding arc and deionization time;
 The susceptibility of commutation failures after filter switching or converter transformer
energisation must be minimised;
 The time response for a 50% step change in the power order should be less than 150 ms;
 The time response for a step change in the current order lower than the current margin (<10%)
should be less than 30 ms;
 The time response for a 30% step change in the current order should be less than 70 ms;
 The operation of the HVDC scheme must not harm the steady-state and transient performance
of other electrically close converters;

4. Basic control functions of the HVDC scheme

Bipole 1 was designed to transfer power between Xingu and Estreito converter stations in both power
flow directions. The nominal bipole power is 4.000 MW in normal direction (X→E) and 3.270 MW in
reverse direction (E→X). The scheme is provided with a short-time overload capability of 50% for 5
seconds and a long-term overload of 33% for 30 minutes. Both are intended to be used during internal
and external emergency situations. A low ambient continuous capability of up to 10% is also provided
depending on the dry-bulb ambient temperature. The normal DC voltage is 800 kV, but each pole is
capable of operating at a reduced DC voltage of 70% (560 kV) along with the specified DC current
overload capabilities.
The HVDC control system is sub-divided into two completely separated systems: Pole Control and
DC Station Control. All control systems are fully redundant and implemented on the same SIMATIC
TDC hardware platform. The DC Station Control is responsible for station related functions (e.g. AC
filter control, AC switchyard control) and bipole related functions (e.g. power ramp, stability
functions, DC configuration control), and carries out administrative functions, such as management of
control authorities between different control locations. The Pole Control takes care of power control
(in combination with DC Station Control), current control, tap-changer control and other pole and
converter related control functions.
There are two main control modes for energy transfer: P-mode (power control) and I-mode (current
control). In P-mode, power reference is provided in bipole basis and the DC current reference for both

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poles is determined by dividing the power reference by the bipolar DC voltage (i.e. the sum of the two
pole voltages). This is the normal operating mode. In I-mode, the current reference is directly provided
to an individual pole by the operator. The energy transfer mode can be assigned independently to each
pole. In case one pole is set to P-mode and the other to I-mode, the pole in P-mode will compensate
for the deviations in power of the pole in I-mode, so the bipole power is maintained.
In normal steady-state conditions, the rectifier will control the DC current to maintain the DC power at
the rectifier terminals. This is achieved by continuous fast variation of the firing angle with changing
system conditions. The firing angle is maintained within a pre-defined range in steady-state
(12.7°<α<17.3°) by tap-changer control of the rectifier converter transformers. The inverter control is
responsible to maintain the DC voltage at the rectifier terminals equal to the voltage reference
(normally 800 kV). If the extinction angle goes outside a pre-defined band in steady-state
(18°<γ<21°), then the inverter converter transformer tap-changer control will be invoked.
The inverter is also provided with a DC current control and a minimum extinction angle control. The
inverter current reference is generated at the rectifier (where limits and modulation signals are also
applied) and sent to the inverter station via a fast interstation telecontrol. The rectifier and inverter
current orders are coordinated by the Pole Current Order Coordination (PCOC) function. A current
margin of 0.1 pu is subtracted from the inverter reference so the inverter current control is normally
inhibited. The current control becomes active at the inverter (current margin control) when the rectifier
is no longer capable of controlling the DC current (e.g. when firing angle reaches minimum limit). A
smooth transition between voltage control and current control at the inverter is provided by the
Current Error Characteristics (CEC) function. If current control by the inverter is sustained for a
certain time, the Current Margin Compensation (CMC) function will increase the current reference of
both rectifier and inverter stations, so the ordered pole current is maintained. The extinction angle
control operates to prevent the inverter extinction angle to decrease below a minimum value during
abnormal conditions (e.g. low AC voltage at the inverter side). Operation with low extinction angles
should be avoided because of the risk of commutation failures. A common PI-controller structure is
used to perform the three functions (Id-control, Ud-control and γ-control), but the proportional gains
and integral time constants are dynamically changed depending on which controller is selected.
In addition to the above mentioned functions, other control actions are required to achieve a
satisfactory transient performance and ensure the safe operation of converters. The complete list of
functions implemented in DC Station Control and Pole Control is presented in the following sub-
sections, but a detailed description of each of them is out of the scope of this paper and therefore will
not be given.

4.1. DC Station Control functions

The DC Station Control is responsible for the following control functions:
 Power Order Calculator for DC Power (POCDC)
 Stability Functions:
o Run-ups and Run-backs
o Power Oscillation Damping (POD)
o Frequency Control (FC)
 Current Balance Control (CBC)
 DC Yard Control and Bipole Level Sequences

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 AC Filter Control:
o Harmonic Performance Control (HPC)
o AC Voltage Limitation Control (VLC)
o Reactive Power Control (RPC) – Q-control and U-control
o DC Current Limitation according to AC filter rating (CLIM)

In PSCAD, only the stability functions and the Current Balance Control are modelled in details. A
simplified functional model of the AC Filter Control is also provided to start-up the HVDC system
with an appropriate number of AC filters and to perform automatic filter switching in case of AC
under/overvoltage (VLC function).

4.2. Pole Control functions

The following control functions are performed in the Pole Control:
 Current Order Calculation (COC) (P/U function)
 Operating mode selection (P-mode/I-mode)
 Pole-to-Pole Power Transfer (PPT)
 Current Order Setting Functions:
o Current Margin Compensation (CMC)
o Current Margin Switching (CMS)
o Pole Current Limitation (PCL)
o Pole Current Order Coordination (PCOC)
 Pole Level Sequences:
o Pole Start/Stop Sequences
o DC Filter Connect / Earth Sequences
o Open Line Test (OLT) / Open Converter Test (OCT) Sequences
 Tap-Changer Control:
o Angle Mode
o Udio Mode
 Converter Control Functions:
o DC Voltage Control (Ud-control)
o DC Voltage Reference (Uref) Setting
o Voltage Dependent Current Limit (VDCL)
o Transient Fault Recovery Logic
o DC Current Control (Id-control)
o Current Error Characteristic (CEC)
o Current Error Modulation (CEM)
o Extinction Angle Control (γ-control)
o Firing Angle Limitation (α-limits)

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o Triggerset and interface to thyristor valves via VBE (Valve Base Electronics)
 Converter Level Sequences:
o Block/Deblock Sequences
o Emergency Switch-off (ESOF) Sequence
o DC Line Fault Recovery Sequence
 Pole DC Protection

In general, Pole Control functions are detailed represented in the PSCAD model using a proprietary
user library of functions that mimics the actual SIMATIC TDC processor structure/hierarchy and
sample times. The SIMATIC TDC measurement system including signal filtering and sampling is also
represented in details.

4.3. Special Protection System (SPS)

The considerable deviations between the planned and actual AC network configuration imposed
severe restrictions on the power transfer from the power plants located at the North region
(particularly, Belo Monte and Tucurui) to the Southeast region. To overcome these limitations, a
Special Protection System (SPS) was implemented to ensure stable operation after system
contingencies. It consists of five logics which respond to single and multiple outages of transmission
lines, bipole blocking and loss of generation in Belo Monte. The actions performed by the SPS include
Run-ups, Run-backs and trip of generator units in Belo Monte and Tucurui.

5. HVDC PSCAD model validation

Extensive comparison tests have been conducted to validate the PSCAD model of the HVDC system.
A variety of AC and DC line fault tests have been performed to compare the PSCAD model against
the real-time simulator (RTDS) including a replica of the SIMATIC TDC control system. The PSCAD
model was also compared to a few on-site tests, such as step responses, pole trip and valve misfiring
(commutation failure). The test results show an excellent matching, proving that the PSCAD model is
suitable for dynamic performance investigations.
Figure 4 shows selected comparison plots between PSCAD (blue signals) and RTDS (red signals) for
a 3-phase fault at Estreito busbar with the bipole transmitting 4000 MW in X→E power flow
direction. The AC systems were represented by simple Thevenin equivalents.

(a) Estreito 500 kV rms voltage (b) Pole 1 Xingu DC power

(c) Pole 1 Xingu DC current (d) Pole 1 Xingu current reference

(e) Pole 1 Estreito DC voltage (f) Pole 1 Estreito current reference

Figure 4 – Three-phase fault at Estreito (4.000 MW, X→E) - PSCAD (blue) x RTDS (red)

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Figure 5 shows comparison plots between the PSCAD model (blue signals) and the Transient Fault
Recorder (TFR) data obtained during on-site tests (red signals) for a step response of -/+100 MW in
bipole power reference. The bipole is initially transmitting 2000 MW in X→E power flow direction.

(a) Pole 1 Xingu DC power (b) Pole 1 Xingu DC current

(c) Pole 1 Xingu firing angle (d) Pole 1 Xingu DC voltage

Figure 5 – Step response of -/+100 MW in Pref (2.000 MW, X→E) - PSCAD (blue) x TFR (red)

6. Study results
6.1. AC and DC system faults
The HVDC controller parameters have been optimized for a number of AC system representations,
operating conditions and fault locations. Different settings have been used for Xingu and Estreito
controllers, as well as for bipolar and monopolar operation. The controller parameters were initially
designed for the Concept Stage network models in PSCAD and verified in the Dynamic Performance
Tests (DPT) using RTDS and SIMATIC TDC control replicas. The dynamic behaviour of the HVDC
scheme was satisfactory and all specified performance requirements were fulfilled. Besides, no
adverse interactions with other HVDC projects have been observed.
The initial settings have been re-evaluated using the Detailed Stage network models in PSCAD. Some
controller parameters have been then adapted to avoid subsequent commutation failures and ensure a
fast and stable AC fault recovery, such as transient fault recovery logic, current error modulation,
firing angle limitation and PI-controller parameters.
For the 2018 scenarios, the great majority of test cases complied with the specified performance
requirements, including the recovery time of 220 ms after AC system faults. However, a final recovery
longer than 220 ms was observed for a few 3-phase fault cases. This is highly acceptable, since the
Detailed Stage network models represent a much more degraded system condition with very low
short-circuit level.
For the 2019 X→E scenario, where Bipole 2 is in operation, subsequent commutation failures during
recovery have been observed for a few 3-phase fault cases. These commutation failures have induced
commutation failures on Bipole 2, Itaipu and Rio Madeira HVDC schemes. However, the overall
system recovers without further consequences.
For the 2019 E→X scenario, Bipole 1 and 2 are feeding 2.500 MW into the AC system at Xingu
substation (total of 5.000 MW). This is a high power infeed for such a weak network. The overall
performance of the system will depend on the level of power infeed and on the number of machines
operating as synchronous condensers in Belo Monte (since it will determine the short-circuit level at
the converter busbar). With one synchronous condenser in operation, several fault cases led to multiple
commutation failures and complete shutdown of the HVDC systems. With three synchronous
condensers, some results were improved but AC faults in Xingu busbar followed by the trip of one
circuit of Xingu – Tucurui transmission line and some DC line faults still presented multiple
commutation failures and failed to recover. Additional tests showed that further optimization of

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control parameters would not resolve this issue. This is an indication that the total power transfer from
the two bipoles must be limited until the AC transmission network reinforcements are implemented.
Figure 6 shows the HVDC response for a single-phase fault at Estreito busbar followed by opening the
Estreito – Ribeirão Preto 500 kV transmission line after 100ms. Figure 7 presents the results for a DC
line fault close to rectifier terminals of Pole 1 with successful restart at the 4th attempt in reduced
voltage. The two cases were obtained with the Concept Stage load flow model
“HVDCV2g2_2L_EQV” in RTDS using the control and protection system replica. Several control
actions can be observed from these plots.

(a) Estreito 500 kV phase-to-ground voltages (b) Estreito firing angle and firing angle limits

(c) Bipole DC power (d) Status of Id-control, Ud-control and γ-control

(e) DC current and current references (f) DC voltage and voltage reference
Figure 6 – 1ph fault at Estreito inverter followed by trip of Estreito – Ribeirão Preto transmission line

(a) DC current and Xingu current reference (b) Pole DC powers

(c) Xingu firing angle (d) DC voltage and voltage reference

Figure 7 – DC line fault at Pole 1 with successful restart at the 4th attempt in reduced voltage

6.2. AC harmonic filter switching

No commutation failures have been observed for AC harmonic filter switching, even at the lowest
short-circuit level and maximum power transfer. Therefore, no special control action has been
implemented to minimize the probability of commutation failure prior to filter switching.

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6.3. Converter transformer energisation

The susceptibility of commutation failures following a converter transformer energisation of the
second pole of Bipole 1 and of the first pole of Bipole 2 was investigated. The transformers were
energised considering the maximum pre-energisation AC busbar voltage (1.1 pu) and a high remanent
flux (up to 60%). The transformers tap-changers were set at the maximum tap ratio (lowest valve-
winding voltage) prior to the energisation. The AC system at both converter stations were represented
by Thevenin equivalent sources with minimum short-circuit level.
The circuit breakers of Bipole 1 transformers are energised via a synchronizing device. A
displacement in the range of ±1ms has been considered on the ordered switching commands.
Bipole 2 transformer breakers are not equipped with a point-on-wave switching device. It uses a pre-
insertion resistor of 1300 Ω with bypass time ranging from 8ms to 11ms. The initial switching instant
was then varied from 0 to 16ms starting from the zero-crossing of phase A voltage in steps of 1ms. For
each initial close command, 300 individual statistical cases were performed considering that the
auxiliary breakers close delay (pre-insertion resistor connection) ranges from 0 to 3ms and the main
breakers close delay (bypass of pre-insertion resistors) ranges from 8 to 11ms. The total number of
cases is therefore 5.100 (300*17).
It was concluded that an automatic temporary gamma increase of 10º on the operating poles prior to
energisation is sufficient to minimize the susceptibility of Bipole 1 from suffering commutation
failures. The extinction angle reference is rapidly increased and hold for 1.3 seconds before release.
Just in a few cases of energisation of the 2nd pole of Bipole1, the running pole suffered a commutation
failure (60% remanent flux and maximum negative point-on-wave displacement of minus 1ms). For
these cases, if a lower remanent flux (e.g. 30%) or a smaller deviation on switching command instants
is considered (more realistic assumptions), the commutation failure is no longer observed.
Furthermore, none of the 5.100 cases of energisation of the first pole of Bipole 2 resulted in
commutation failures on the running poles of Bipole 1.
6.4. Controller step response
In general, the response of the HVDC system to step disturbances in controller references (Iref, Uref,
γref) was fast, stable and well-damped. However, the fulfilment of the specified requirements for steps
in the current order could not be satisfied. The design of the HVDC control functions and optimization
of control parameters were done with the focus on recovery performance for AC faults, DC line faults
and stable operation during transients. As the controller design is a kind of compromise, this
optimization led to the condition that step response requirements could not always be met. On the
other hand, current reference steps are artificial tests which demonstrate only a small part of the
overall performance of the HVDC controls, while the control performance on transient events is
significantly influenced by additional functions, such as VDCL, CEM and firing angle limitation. So,
deriving the control performance from the isolated current step responses, results in a partial and not
optimal evaluation of the HVDC control performance. In addition, current step responses are also
dependent on the AC system strength and physical limitations of the converter equipment. Therefore,
it was agreed that this requirement could be relaxed.
7. Conclusions
The study results show that a robust HVDC control system design was developed and that the
specified dynamic performance requirements will generally be met, even during severe contingencies
in the power system. Due to significant changes in the network configuration in the Detailed Stage
(much weaker than the Concept Stage network), a few deviations on performance results were verified
and a Special Protection System was necessary to ensure the stability of the interconnected system.

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XIV SYMPOSIUM OF SPECIALISTS IN ELECTRIC OPERATIONAL AND EXPANSION PLANNING

SEPTEMBER 30TH THRU OCTOBER 3RD OF 2018 / RECIFE / PE /BRASIL

BIBLIOGRAPHY

[1] D. S. Carvalho, D. F. Souza, P. C. V. Esmeraldo; “Planning conceptions for a ± 800 kV HVDC

transmission system in Brazil”. Cigre CE B4 Colloquium in HVDC and Power Electronic to
Boost Network Performance, Brasília, Brazil, October 2-3, 2013.
[2] PSCAD User`s Manual V4.6 – Manitoba HVDC Research Center, 2017
[3] RTDS Technologies Inc., RTDS User’s Manual Set, Winnipeg, CA, 2017.
[4] ANEEL, Edital de Leilão Nº011/2013, “Anexo 6AB - Lote AB – Sistema de transmissão em
corrente continua de ±800 kV para reforço à interligação norte-sudeste associado ao escoamento
da UHE Belo Monte – Características e requisites técnicos básicos das instalações de
transmissão”, 2013.
[5] V.R. Oliveira, S.J. Filho, M.M. Gonçalves, F.C. Jusan, E.M. Brandi, “Desenvolvimento de um
equivalente dinâmico no PSCAD para os estudos do Bipolo 1 de Belo Monte”, XIV SEPOPE,
Recife/PE, Outubro de 2018.

BIBLIOGRAPHY DATA
Fernando Cattan Jusan received the B.Sc. degree in electrical engineering from
CEFET-RJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2003, and the M.Sc. degree in electrical
engineering from Federal University of Rio de Janeiro/COPPE, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,
in 2007. Since 2004, he has been with Furnas Centrais Elétricas, Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil. He is currently a power system engineer of the Department of Electrical
Studies and Power System Operation. His main areas of interest are HVDC
transmission, FACTS devices, power system stability and control, small-signal
analysis and subsynchronous oscillations. He is a member of Study Committee B4 of Cigré (HVDC
and Power Electronics). He has large experience in the planning, design and operation of HVDC
schemes, with intensive involvement in the most important HVDC projects in Brazil, i.e. Itaipu, Rio
Madeira and Belo Monte, particularly in the following fields: main circuit design, AC and DC
harmonics and filtering, DC control and protection, modelling.

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