Insulation - Coordination of - Arcing Horns - On - HVDC - Electrode - Lines - Protection - Perforance - Evaluation - Influence - Factors - and - Improvement - Method PDF

energies
Article
Insulation Coordination of Arcing Horns on HVDC
Electrode Lines: Protection Performance Evaluation,
Influence Factors and Improvement Method
Xiandong Li 1,2,3, * ID
, Hua Li 1,2,3, *, Yi Liu 1,2,3 and Fuchang Lin 1,2,3
1 State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Engineering and Technology,
Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; yiliu@hust.edu.cn (Y.L.);
fclin@mail.hust.edu.cn (F.L.)
2 School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science & Technology,
Wuhan 430074, China
3 Key Laboratory of Pulsed Power Technology (Huazhong University of Science and Technology),
Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430074, China
* Correspondence: lixiandong90@hust.edu.cn (X.L.); leehua@hust.edu.cn (H.L.)
Received: 19 January 2018; Accepted: 11 February 2018; Published: 13 February 2018
Abstract: Arcing horns are widely used in high voltage overhead lines to protect insulator strings
from being destroyed by the free burning arcs caused by lightening faults. In this paper, we focus
on the insulation coordination of arcing horns on the electrode lines of a 5000 MW, ±800 kV high
voltage direct current (HVDC) system. The protection performance of arcing horns are determined
by the characteristics of not only the external system but also the fault arc. Therefore, the behaviors
and characteristics of long free burning arcs are investigated by the experiments at first. In order to
evaluate the protection performance of arcing horns, the static stability criterion U-I characteristic
method is introduced. The influence factors on the protection performance of arcing horns are
analyzed theoretically. Finally, the improvement methods for the protection performance of arcing
horns are proposed, and the diversified configuration strategy of arcing horns is recommended for
cost saving.
Keywords: HVDC electrode line; arcing horn; insulation coordination; protection performance; long
free burning arc; arc behavior and characteristic
1. Introduction
1.1. Insulation Coordination Problem of Arcing Horns on HVDC Electrode Lines

Arcing horns are widely used on high voltage overhead transmission lines to protect insulator
strings from being destroyed by the free burning arcs caused by lightening faults. However, it is hard
to extinguish arcs in high voltage direct current (HVDC) system, since there is no natural current
zero point. Besides, it is difficult to detect fault arcs, especially for HVDC electrode lines, so fault arcs
may continue to burn once formed if the fault arc is not detected. As a result, both arcing horns and
insulator strings will be destroyed in the end. With the fast growing power transfer and transmission
distance of HVDC systems, the insulation coordination problem of HVDC electrode lines is becoming
more serious. Therefore, research on the performance of the arcing horns on HVDC electrode lines is
very necessary.
Electrode lines are used for the current return pass and as the voltage reference point of HVDC
system. When the system is operating in bi-polar mode, as shown in Figure 1a, the unbalanced current
on the electrode lines can be ignored. Hence, there will be no problem with the extinction of fault arcs.
However, when the system is operating in mono-polar mode, as shown in Figure 1b, the operation
Energies 2018, 11, 430; doi:10.3390/en11020430 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2018, 11, 430 2 of 19
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 19
current on thecurrent
operation electrode lines
on the is rather
electrode lineslarge. If alarge.
is rather lightning fault happens,
If a lightning the fault
fault happens, arc arc
the fault may not be
may
extinguished, then boththen
not be extinguished, the arcing
both thehorns
arcingand insulator
horns stringsstrings
and insulator will be burned
will and and
be burned destroyed.
destroyed.
(a) HVDC system operated in bi-polar mode
(b) HVDC system operated in mono-polar mode
Figure 1. Operation mode of HVDC system.

Figure 1. Operation mode of HVDC system.
1.2. Current Reaserches on Insulation Coordination of Arcing Horns on HVDC Electrode Lines
1.2. Current Reaserches on Insulation Coordination of Arcing Horns on HVDC Electrode Lines
To solve this problem, the characteristics of fault arcs should be investigated firstly, and an
optimized
To solve insulation coordination
this problem, scheme should beofstudied
the characteristics fault based
arcs the characteristics
should of fault arcs.
be investigated firstly,
and Thus, the wholeinsulation
an optimized problem involves two aspects:
coordination scheme the should
characteristics of fault
be studied arcs and
based the insulation of
the characteristics
faultcoordination
arcs. Thus,scheme.
the whole problem involves two aspects: the characteristics of fault arcs and the
insulationThe fault arcs in scheme.
coordination HVDC systems are long free burning arcs. The long free burning arc (>100 mm)
has quite different properties compared with the short arc (<10 mm) and the arc in closed space
The fault arcs in HVDC systems are long free burning arcs. The long free burning arc (>100 mm)
because of its complex behavior. The existing studies about long arcs are mainly concerned with its
has quite different properties compared with the short arc (<10 mm) and the arc in closed space
movement [1–5] and electrical [4–11] characteristics.
because of Asits
forcomplex behavior.
the insulation The existing
coordination scheme,studies
some about
studieslong
havearcs
beenare mainly
carried outconcerned with its
[12–14]. Those
movement
works can[1–5]
be and electrical
classified by their[4–11] characteristics.
methods into two kinds: the maximum arc extinction current method
As the
and for U-I
thecharacteristic
insulation method.
coordination scheme, some studies have been carried out [12–14].
Those works can [12]
Canellas be classified
carried out bystudies
their methods into two
on the extinction of kinds: the maximum
direct current (DC) arcsarc on extinction current
long electrode
lines based on the experimental
method and the U-I characteristic method. results of the Itaipu group, and gave the relations between the
maximum
Canellas [12] arc carried
extinction
outcurrent
studiesand the extinction
on the gap lengthofofdirect
arcingcurrent
horns. (DC)
However, thelong
arcs on maximum arclines
electrode
basedextinction current is only
on the experimental few hundreds
results (≤400group,
of the Itaipu A) andand the gave
maximum gap length
the relations is less the
between thanmaximum
500 mm, arc
which current
extinction are not suitable
and theforgap the HVDC
length ofsystems with large
arcing horns. operation
However, thecurrents
maximum usedarc
today.
extinction current is
Jankov [13] discussed about the protection performance of arcing horns on the HVDC system
only few hundreds (≤400 A) and the maximum gap length is less than 500 mm, which are not suitable
with neutral conductor. The static stability criterion Voltage-Current characteristic method (or U-I
for the HVDC systems with large operation currents used today.
characteristic method as usually called) was adopted to find the maximum protection region of arc
JankovIn[13]
horns. our discussed aboutthe
previous works. theprotection
protection performance
performance of arcing
of arcing hornshorns
in HVDCon the HVDClines
electrode system
withwas
neutral conductor. The static stability criterion Voltage-Current characteristic
investigated also based on the U-I characteristic method, and the influence factors were analyzed method (or U-I
characteristic
preliminarilymethod as usuallythe
[14]. Although, called) was adopted
U-I characteristic to find
method hasthe maximum
been proved toprotection region
be an effective way of arc
horns.
forIn
theour previous
insulation works. theofprotection
coordination arcing horns performance of arcing
by [13,14], none of themhorns in HVDC
provided electrode lines
a comprehensive
study on the influence
was investigated also based factors
on theandU-I
the characteristic
method,improvement strategy
and the influence for arcing
factors werehorns.
analyzed
preliminarily [14]. Although, the U-I characteristic method has been proved to be an effective way for
the insulation coordination of arcing horns by [13,14], none of them provided a comprehensive study
on the influence factors and the protection performance improvement strategy for arcing horns.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 3 of 19
In this2018,
Energies paper, thePEER
11, x FOR insulation
REVIEW coordination of arcing horns on the electrode lines of a 35000 of 19 MW,
±800 kV HVDC system is studied. The U-I characteristic method is used to evaluate the protection
In this paper, the insulation coordination of arcing horns on the electrode lines of a 5000 MW,
performance of arcing horns. Since the protection performance of arcing horns is decided by the
±800 kV HVDC system is studied. The U-I characteristic method is used to evaluate the protection
characteristics of not only electrode line system but also the fault arc, experiments have been carried
performance of arcing horns. Since the protection performance of arcing horns is decided by the
out to investigate of
characteristics thenot
characteristics
only electrodeof long
line freebut
system burning
also thearcs.
faultThe
arc, factors influencing
experiments thecarried
have been protection
performance of arcing
out to investigate thehorns are analyzed
characteristics of longtheoretically. Finally,
free burning arcs. the improvement
The factors influencing thestrategy
protectionfor the
protection performance of arcing horns is proposed based on the theoretical analysis.
performance of arcing horns are analyzed theoretically. Finally, the improvement strategy for the
protection performance of arcing horns is proposed based on the theoretical analysis.
1.3. Static Stability Criterion of Fault Arc on HVDC System (U-I Characteristic Method)
1.3. Static Stability Criterion of Fault Arc on HVDC System (U-I Characteristic Method)
U-I characteristic method [13,14] can be used as the static stability criterion for the fault arc on
HVDC system.U-I characteristic
As shown method [13,14]2,can
in Figure thebeU-I
used as the static stability
characteristic of faultcriterion for thestate
arc in static fault U arc
arcon
(I) has
HVDC system. As shown in Figure 2, the U-I characteristic of fault arc in static
a negative power function form [11], on the other hand, the U-I characteristic of external DC system state U arc (I) has a
negative power function form [11], on the other hand, the U-I characteristic of external DC system
Uex (I) system has a linear function form. Usually, the U-I characteristic of external system is varied
Uex (I) system has a linear function form. Usually, the U-I characteristic of external system is varied
with the fault location. Therefore, the possible number of cross point would be zero, one (P) or two (P1 ,
with the fault location. Therefore, the possible number of cross point would be zero, one (P) or two
P2 ) depending on the fault location. The cross points can be regarded as the solutions of state equation
(P1, P2) depending on the fault location. The cross points can be regarded as the solutions of state
Uarc (I) = U
equation ex Uarc which
(I), (I) = Uexactually
(I), whichstands forstands
actually the possible burning
for the possible state for
burning the
state forfault arc. arc.
the fault
Figure 2. U-I characteristic method for investigating static stability of fault arc.
Figure 2. U-I characteristic method for investigating static stability of fault arc.
If there is no cross point, which means the arc would go into the extinction state. In this situation,
the U-I characteristic
If there of the fault
is no cross point, whicharcmeans
is higher
thethan
arc the
wouldU-I characteristic of the external
go into the extinction system,
state. sosituation,
In this the
external
the U-I system cannot
characteristic of theprovide
fault arc sufficient
is higher energy to keep
than the the fault arc burning.
U-I characteristic The areasystem,
of the external which isso the
lower
external than the
system U-I characteristic
cannot of fault energy
provide sufficient arc is called the protected
to keep zone.
the fault arc burning. The area which is lower
If there is any cross point, it means the arc would keep burning in some state. In this situation,
than the U-I characteristic of fault arc is called the protected zone.
the U-I characteristic of fault arc is lower than the U-I characteristic of the external system, so the
If there is any cross point, it means the arc would keep burning in some state. In this situation,
external system can provide sufficient energy to keep the fault arc burning. The area which is higher
the U-I
thancharacteristic of faultofarc
the U-I characteristic faultisarc
lower thanthe
is called the U-I characteristic
unprotected zone of the external system, so the
external system can provide sufficient energy to keep the fault arc
It should be mentioned that only P1 is a stable burning point (state), while, burning. TheParea which
2 is an is higher
unstable
than burning
point (state) in of faultany
which arcdisturbance
is called thewillunprotected zone from P2 and a transit to P1
lead to a deviation
It should be
eventually. Thementioned
critical burningthatstate
only P1 iswhen
occurs a stable
P2 andburning point (state),
P1 are overlapped while,
at P. In P2 maximum
fact, the is an unstable
protection
burning point zone
(state)is in
determined
which any by disturbance
will leadcurve of the external
to a deviation fromsystem
P2 andwhere P is to P1
a transit
located. Hence the maximum protection region is the fault location where the
eventually. The critical burning state occurs when P2 and P1 are overlapped at P. In fact, the maximum critical burning state
happens,
protection zoneandiscan be used toby
determined evaluate
the U-Ithe protection performance
characteristic curve of the of external
arcing horns.
system where P is located.
Hence the maximum protection region is the fault location where the critical burning state happens,
2. Experimental Settings
and can be used to evaluate the protection performance of arcing horns.
Figure 3 shows the diagram of our experimental system. A cascade circuit pulse-wave generator
(total equivalent
2. Experimental capacitance Ceq = 18 mF) is chosen as the power source whose maximum pulse width
Settings
is 70 ms and peak current is 2500 A. Two steel arcing horns are used as electrodes of which the
Figure 3 shows
discharge the diagram
gap length of our
Lgap is from 400experimental
mm to 1500 mm, system.
and Athe
cascade
arcing circuit pulse-wave
horns are installed generator
both
(totalvertically
equivalent
and capacitance
horizontally in Ceq
the=experiments.
18 mF) is chosen asarc
The fault theispower
ignited source whose
by a ϕ 0.05 mmmaximum
cooper wirepulse
width is 70 ms and peak current is 2500 A. Two steel arcing horns are used as electrodes of which
the discharge gap length Lgap is from 400 mm to 1500 mm, and the arcing horns are installed both
Energies 2018, 11, 430 4 of 19
vertically and2018,
Energies horizontally
11, x FOR PEERin the experiments. The fault arc is ignited by a ϕ 0.05 mm cooper
REVIEW 4 of 19 wire
connected to the edge of arcing horns. A 500 MHz oscilloscope (TDS3052C, Tektronix, Beaverton, OR,
USA) and connected to the edge
a high-speed of arcing
camera horns. A 500
(FASTCAM MHz
SA5, oscilloscope
Motion (TDS3052C,
Engineering Tektronix,
Company, Beaverton,
Chicago, IL,OR,
USA) are
Energies
USA) 2018,
and11,ax high-speed
FOR PEER REVIEW
camera (FASTCAM SA5, Motion Engineering Company, Chicago, IL, USA) 4 of 19
applied to record the voltage, current and development process of fault arc, respectively.
are applied to record the voltage, current and development process of fault arc, respectively.
connected to the edge of arcing horns. A 500 MHz oscilloscope (TDS3052C, Tektronix, Beaverton, OR,
USA) and a high-speed camera (FASTCAM SA5, Motion Engineering Company, Chicago, IL, USA)
are applied to record the voltage,
1.5Ω current and development process of fault arc, respectively.
Voltage
14mH
Switch
Probe
7.2mF
Arcing Horns
(vertical)
3.5mH
1.5Ω Voltage
14mH
Switch
5.4mF Probe
7.2mF
Arcing Horns
Fuse
wire
(vertical)
3.5mH 3.5mH
3.5mH
3.6mF
5.4mF
High-speed Fuse
Camera wire
3.5mH
1.8mF
3.6mF
High-speed
Camera Current Support
3.5mH
Pulse-wave Generator
Probe
1.8mF
Figure 3. Diagram of experimental system.
Figure 3. Diagram of experimental system.
Current Support
Pulse-wave Generator
In the experiment, the capacitors are charged firstly to the voltage U0 = 6000 V, and the total
Probe
energy stored in capacitors
In the experiment, the capacitors is 0.324 MJ. Then, the switch
firstly closed
is theand the energies
U0 = in capacitors
V, andare
Figure 3. are charged
Diagram of experimental tosystem.
voltage 6000 the total
released to ignite the cooper wire. The arc will be formed and burns in open air freely until the energy
energy stored in capacitors is 0.324 MJ. Then, the switch is closed and the energies in capacitors are
runs out.
released toIn ignite
the experiment,
the cooper thewire.
capacitors
The arc arewill
charged firstly to
be formed and theburns
voltage
in U 0 = 6000 V, and the total
open air freely until the energy
energy stored in capacitors is 0.324 MJ. Then, the switch is closed and the energies in capacitors are
runs out.3. Behaviors and Characteristics of Long Free Burning Arc
released to ignite the cooper wire. The arc will be formed and burns in open air freely until the energy
runs out.
3.1.
3. Behaviors Behaviors of Long Free Burning
and Characteristics Arc Free Burning Arc
of Long
3. Behaviors andWaveforms
3.1.1. Typical Characteristics of Long Free Burning Arc
3.1. Behaviors of Long Free Burning Arc
The typical
3.1. Behaviors of Longcurrent and voltage
Free Burning Arc waveforms of a long free burning arc are shown in Figure 4. The
3.1.1. Typical Waveforms
waveform of the arc current pulse is stable, which is caused by the smoothing effect of the circuit
inductance on the arc current. However, the waveform of the arc voltage is unstable with many
3.1.1.typical
Typical Waveforms
The current and voltage waveforms of a long free burning arc are shown in Figure 4.
vibrations, which is caused by the instability of the long free burning arc. In the later Section 3.1.3, it
The waveform
isThe of
typical
indicated the arc
thecurrent
current
that pulse
and voltage
instability is stable,
of waveforms
long which
of a long
free burning isfree
arc caused byrelated
burning
is closely theare
arc smoothing
toshown effect
in Figure
the local of the circuit
4. The
short circuit
waveform
inductance on of
process the
of thearc
arc arccurrent.
current
column. pulse is noticed
However,
It should be stable, which
the theisspike
waveform
that caused ofbythe
(0–0.1 thearc
ms) smoothing
waveeffect
voltage
in the of arc
thevoltage
is unstable
front of circuit
with many
inductance
vibrations, which
is caused on
byisthe arc current.
caused
the theHowever,
byprocess
ignition instability the
of the fuse waveform
ofwire.
the long free of the arc voltage
burning arc. Inis the
unstable
later with many
Section 3.1.3, it is
vibrations,
indicated which
that the is causedofbylong
instability the instability
free burning of the
arclong free burning
is closely arc.to
related Inthe
the local
later Section 3.1.3, itprocess
short circuit
is indicated that the instability 3000 of long free burning arc is closely related3000 to the local short circuit
of arc column. It should be noticed that the spike (0–0.1 ms) in the wave front of arc voltage is caused
process of arc column. It should be noticed that the spike (0–0.1 ms) in the wave front of arc voltage
by the ignition process of the fuse wire.
is caused by the ignition process of the fuse wire.
2000 2000
3000 3000
Current (A)
Voltage (V)
1000 Voltage 1000

2000 2000
Current (A)
Current
Voltage (V)
0 0
1000 Voltage 1000

0 20 40 60 80
Time (ms)
Current
Figure 4.0 Typical current and voltage waveforms of a free burning
0 arc.
0 20 40 60 80
Time (ms)
Figure 4. Typical current and voltage waveforms of a free burning arc.

Figure 4. Typical current and voltage waveforms of a free burning arc.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 5 of 19
3.1.2. Development Process of a Long Free Burning Arc

Figure2018,
Energies 5 shows the
11, x FOR development
PEER REVIEW
Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW
process of a long free burning arc of which the discharge 5 of 19 gap
5 of 19
length Lgap = 1000 mm. Figure 6 shows the variation of arc length with time. The whole development
3.1.2.of
process
3.1.2. Development
long free burning
Development Processof
Process ofaaLong
arc Long
can beFree Burning
divided
Free Burning intoArc
Arcfour phases based on the shape of arc column,
the motion of
Figure arc
5 and
shows the expansion
the of
development arc (the
process variation
of a
Figure 5 shows the development process of a long free long of burning
free arc length):
burning arcofofwhich
arc whichthe
thedischarge
dischargegap
gap
lengthLLgapgap==1000
length 1000mm.
mm.Figure
Figure66shows
showsthe
thevariation
variationofofarc
arclength
lengthwith
withtime.
time.The
Thewhole
wholedevelopment
development
Phase I (0.1–3
process ms):free Thisburning
phase arcis called the slowinto expansion phase. The arc motion
shapeofofis gentle, the arc
process ofoflong
long free burning canbe
arc can bedivided
divided fourphases
into four phases based
based onthe
on theshape arc
arc column,
column,
expansion
the speed
motion of is
arc slow
and and
the the arc
expansion column
of arc is
(the stable with
variation
the motion of arc and the expansion of arc (the variation of arc length): of a clear
arc shape.
length):
Phase II Phase
(3–32 ms): This
ms):phase is called the fast expansion phase. The arcarc
motion
motionis violent, the arc
Phase I I(0.1–3
(0.1–3 ms): Thisphase
This phase isiscalled
called theslow
the slow expansion
expansion phase.
phase. The
The arc motion isisgentle,
gentle,the
the
expansion speed
arcexpansion
expansionspeed is fast, and
speedisisslow the
slowand arc
andthe column
thearc
arccolumnis relative
columnisisstable stable.
stablewith It can
withaaclear be seen
clearshape.
shape. that there are blurs around
arc
the arc column
Phase making
II (3–32 theThis
ms): shape of arc
phase is column
called the unclear.
fast The blurs
expansion phase.areThe
conductive,
motionwhich
arcmotion willthe
induce
Phase II (3–32 ms): This phase is called the fast expansion phase. The arc isisviolent,
violent,the
the arc
local short circuit
arcexpansion
expansion speed
speed processes
isisfast,
fast,and ofthe
and arc columns.
thearcarccolumn
columnisisrelative
relativestable.
stable.ItItcan
canbebeseen
seenthat
thatthere
thereare areblurs
blurs
Phasearound
III the
(32–60 arc column
ms): This making
phase the
is shape
called of arc
the column
violent unclear.
motion The
phase.blurs
around the arc column making the shape of arc column unclear. The blurs are conductive, which will are
The conductive,
arc motion which
becomeswillmore
induce
violent,
induce the
however, local
the localthe short
short circuit
arccircuit
expansionprocesses
processesslows of arc
down.
of arc columns.
The blurs around the arc column are diffused which
columns.
PhaseIII III(32–60
(32–60ms):ms):This
Thisphase
phaseisiscalled
calledthe theviolent
violentmotion
motionphase.
phase.TheThearc
arcmotion
motionbecomes
becomesmore more
leads frequent
Phase local short circuit processes making the arc column unstable and without a clear shape.
violent,
violent, however,
however, the
the arc
arc expansion
expansion slows
slows down.
down. The
The blurs
blurs around
around the
the arc
arc column
column are
are diffused
diffused which
which
Phase IV (60–70 ms): This phase is called the extinction phase, in which both the arc motion and
leadsfrequent
leads frequentlocallocalshort
shortcircuit
circuitprocesses
processesmaking
makingthe thearc
arccolumn
columnunstable
unstableandandwithout
withoutaaclearclearshape.
shape.
expansion cease,
Phase IV and
(60–70 thems):arcThis
is quenched to itsthe
phase is called final extinction.
extinction phase, in which both the arc motion and
Phase IV (60–70 ms): This phase is called the extinction phase, in which both the arc motion and
expansioncease,
expansion cease,and andthe
thearc
arcisisquenched
quenchedtotoits itsfinal
finalextinction.
extinction.
It should be mentioned that the initial phase for the case of overvoltage breakdown is different
to that of ItItshould
should
the case beof
be mentioned
fuse wire
mentioned that
that theinitial
ignition.
the initial phase
Inphase
the caseforthe
for the caseofofovervoltage
of case overvoltage
overvoltage breakdown
breakdown,
breakdown theisis different gap
discharge
different
to
is bridged that
to that ofby of the
thethecase
case of
streamerfuse wire
before
of fuse wire ignition. In
the initial
ignition. the
In thearc case of
caseformed.overvoltage breakdown,
Since breakdown,
of overvoltage the streamer the discharge
theusually
dischargehasgapgap isis
a relative
curved bridged
bridgedshape, by the streamer
thestreamer
by the before
shape ofbefore the
initialthe initial
arcinitial
may arc arc formed.
notformed. Since
be verySince the
straight. streamer usually
On the usually
the streamer has
other hand, a
has a therelative
huge
relative curved
amount of
curved
shape,the
shape, theshape
shapeofofinitial
initialarc
arcmaymaynot not beveryverystraight.
straight.On Onthethe otherhand,
hand,thethehuge
hugeamount
amountofof
molecules of the fuse wire guarantee the behigh conductivity of theother
arc column, and ambient air is not
moleculesofofthe
molecules thefuse
fusewire
wireguarantee
guaranteethe thehigh
highconductivity
conductivityofofthe thearc
arccolumn,
column,andandambient
ambientair airisisnot
not
warm enough to cause strong turbulence at the beginning. As a result, the arc column during phase
warm enough to cause strong turbulence at the beginning. As a result, the arc column during phase
I forwarm
the enough
case to cause
of fuse wire strong turbulence
ignition
ignitionis clear atand
the beginning.
straight. As a result,the
However, the following
arc columnprocess
during phase
should
be be
I Ifor
forthethecase
case ofoffuse
fuse wire
wire ignition isisclear
clearand
andstraight.
straight.However,
However, thefollowing
the followingprocess
processshould
should be
similar for
similarfor the two
forthe
thetwo cases.
twocases.
cases.
similar
0 ms 5 ms 15 ms 32 ms 45 ms 60 ms 70 ms
0 ms 5 ms 15 ms 32 ms 45 ms 60 ms 70 ms
Figure 5. Developmentprocess
5. 5.Development processof
of long
long free burning
freeburning
burning arc (L(L
gap = 1000 mm).
Figure
Figure Development process of long free arcarc
(Lgap =gap = 1000
1000 mm).mm).
2000 3000
2000 3000
II IIII III
III
IV
IV 2500
1750 2500
1750
2000
1500 2000
1500
Arc length (mm)
Arc voltage (V)

Arc length (mm)
1500
Arc voltage (V)
1500
1250
1250
1000
1000
1000
1000 500
500
Local short-circuit processes
750 Local short-circuit processes
750 Arc length 0
Arc length 0
Arc voltage
Arc voltage
500 -500
500 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 -500
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
Time (ms)
Time (ms)
Figure 6. Variation
6.6.Variation of arclength
lengthand
and voltage
voltage with time (L(L
gap = 1000 mm).
Figure
Figure Variationofofarc
arc length and with
voltage with time
time (Lgap =gap = 1000
1000 mm).mm).
Energies 2018, 11, 430 6 of 19
According to the experimental results, the arc elongates rapidly at first, and then fluctuates around
a stable length Lst much longer than the discharge gap length Lgp . Table 1 presents the average stable
arc length for the arcing horns at vertical and horizontal configurations, at least 10 experiments have
been carried out for each condition.
Table 1. Average stable arc length of arcing horns at different configurations.
According to the experimental results, the arc elongates rapidly at first, and then fluctuates
around a stable length Lst much longer than the discharge gap length Lgp. Table 1 presents the average
Average Stable Arc Length (mm)
Gap
stable arc length for theDistance (mm)
arcing horns at vertical and horizontal configurations, at least 10 experiments
have been carried out for each condition. Vertical Gap Horizontal Gap
450 1083 1142
Table 1. Average stable arc length of arcing horns at different configurations.
600 1313 1384
1000 1762
Average 1705
Stable Arc Length (mm)
Gap Distance (mm)
1500 2454
Vertical Gap 2512
Horizontal Gap
450 1083 1142
600 1313 1384
Overall, the average stable arc1000
length increases with the discharge
1762 1705 gap length, but the elongation
rate αL = Lst /Lgp decreases from 2.41500 2454
to 1.6. The difference 2512 the elongation rate of vertical and
between
horizontal gaps is not significant, and the result is similar to [5]. In [5], it is thought that magnetic force
Overall, the average stable arc length increases with the discharge gap length, but the elongation
is the dominating force
rate αL = Lst/L at high current level therefore the influence of thermal buoyancy force can be
gp decreases from 2.4 to 1.6. The difference between the elongation rate of vertical and
ignored. horizontal
However,gaps theisthermal turbulence
not significant, canresult
and the increase the instability
is similar to [5]. In [5],ofit an arc andthat
is thought contribute
magneticto the arc
motion which
force is usually meansforce
the dominating a longer
at higharc length,
current levelso the explanation
therefore the influence ofof[5] is notbuoyancy
thermal very comprehensive.
force
In a latercan be ignored. it
subsection, However, the thermal
is indicated turbulence
that the can increase
insignificant the instability
difference of arcoflength
an arc and contribute
between the vertical
to the arc motion which usually means a longer arc length, so the explanation of [5] is not very
and horizontal gaps may be due to local short circuit processes.
comprehensive. In a later subsection, it is indicated that the insignificant difference of arc length
between the vertical and horizontal gaps may be due to local short circuit processes.
3.1.3. Instability of Long Free Burning Arc
The3.1.3. Instability of Long Free Burning Arc
important characteristic of a long free burning arc is the strong instability of arc column.
The important characteristic
The instability of the arc column of a long free
is composed burninginstability
of macro arc is the strong
and instability of arc column.
micro instability. TheThe
arc burning
instability of the arc column is composed of macro instability and micro instability. The arc burning
in open air without a confined container remains in motion and violent expansion, so the macro shape
in open air without a confined container remains in motion and violent expansion, so the macro shape
of the arcofvaries with time showing instability. On the other hand, the micro instability is related to the
the arc varies with time showing instability. On the other hand, the micro instability is related to
local short
the circuit process,
local short as shown
circuit process, in Figure
as shown 7. 7.
in Figure
Channel
B B B B
A A A A
Blur
(a)
A A B A B A B B
(b)
Figure 7. Local short circuit process of arc column: (a) high speed images of local short circuit process;
Figure 7.(b)Local short circuit process of arc column: (a) high speed images of local short circuit process;
mechanism diagram of local short circuit process.
(b) mechanism diagram of local short circuit process.
For the short arc and arcs in a closed space, there is usually one continuous column channel.
ForHowever,
the shortforarc
theand
long arcs
free burning arc, thespace,
in a closed arc column
thereis is
notusually
continuous
onebutcontinuous
rather segmented and channel.
column
composed of short channels and blurs. The blurs can be regarded as the products of cooled channel
However, for the long free burning arc, the arc column is not continuous but rather segmented and
segments. Hence the conductivity of blurs should be lower than that of the channel. The self-magnetic
composed of short pressure
compression channels Psmand blurs.
of arc columnThe blurs can be regarded as the products of cooled channel
equals:
segments. Hence the conductivity of blurs should be lower  than that of the channel. The self-magnetic
Psm = J × B (1)
compression pressure Psm of arc column equals:
→ →
Psm = J × B (1)
Energies 2018, 11, 430 7 of 19
where, J is the local current density, and B is the local magnetic field. Since the conductivity of blurs
where, J is the local current density, and B is the local magnetic field. Since the conductivity of blurs is
is lower, the local current density of blurs is lower as well. As a result, the self-magnetic compression
lower, the local current density of blurs is lower as well. As a result, the self-magnetic compression
pressure of blur is weak, and the shape of blurs is divergent. For the long curved channel segment A
pressure of blur is weak, and the shape of blurs is divergent. For the long curved channel segment A
(as shown in Figure 7b), the voltage drop on channel segment A is large, and the distance between
(as shown in Figure 7b), the voltage drop on channel segment A is large, and the distance between
the two terminals is short. Considering that channel segment A is surrounded by the conductive blurs,
the two terminals is short. Considering that channel segment A is surrounded by the conductive
there is possibility to form a new short pass channel segment B between the two terminals. Once the
blurs, there is possibility to form a new short pass channel segment B between the two terminals.
new short channel segment B is formed, the new short channel segment B will keep growing
Once the new short channel segment B is formed, the new short channel segment B will keep growing
meanwhile the old long channel segment A will be quenched afterwards forming new blurs. The
meanwhile the old long channel segment A will be quenched afterwards forming new blurs. The whole
whole process is called the local short circuit process.
process is called the local short circuit process.
The length as well as the resistance of the new channel segment is smaller than that of the old
The length as well as the resistance of the new channel segment is smaller than that of the old one.
one. Thus a sudden drop arc voltage will be observed, as shown in Figure 6. Besides, there can be
Thus a sudden drop arc voltage will be observed, as shown in Figure 6. Besides, there can be more
more than one channel segment during the local short circuit process, and the equivalent parallel
than one channel segment during the local short circuit process, and the equivalent parallel resistance
resistance of channel segments is smaller than single channel segments which will cause a sudden
of channel segments is smaller than single channel segments which will cause a sudden drop of arc
drop of arc voltage as well.
voltage as well.
As the blur area is expanded and diffused, the local short circuit process becomes more frequent,
As the blur area is expanded and diffused, the local short circuit process becomes more frequent,
enhancing the instability of the arc column. Although the local short circuit process can contribute to
enhancing the instability of the arc column. Although the local short circuit process can contribute to
the arc motion, it can shorten the arc length. That is the reason why the arc motion is violent but the
the arc motion, it can shorten the arc length. That is the reason why the arc motion is violent but the
arc length remains unchanged in Phase III.
arc length remains unchanged in Phase III.
A similar explanation can be used for the insignificant difference of arc length between vertical
A similar explanation can be used for the insignificant difference of arc length between vertical
and horizontal gaps. Although the thermal turbulence can make the arc motion more violent which
and horizontal gaps. Although the thermal turbulence can make the arc motion more violent which
usually means a longer arc length, however, the more frequent local short circuit processes can
usually means a longer arc length, however, the more frequent local short circuit processes can shorten
shorten the arc length. Consequently, the difference of arc length between vertical and horizontal
the arc length. Consequently, the difference of arc length between vertical and horizontal arcing gaps
arcing gaps may not be that significant as expected. Besides, the pulse duration in ours experiments
may not be that significant as expected. Besides, the pulse duration in ours experiments is limited,
is limited, the difference of arc length between vertical and horizontal gaps can be more significant
the difference of arc length between vertical and horizontal gaps can be more significant at a longer
at a longer pulse duration.
pulse duration.
3.2.
3.2. Electric
Electric Characteristic
Characteristic of Long
of Long Free
Free Burning
Burning Arcs
Arcs
3.2.1.
3.2.1. U-I
U-I Characteristic
Characteristic of of Long
Long Free
Free Burning
Burning Arc
Arc
The
The variation
variation of of
U-IU-I characteristic
characteristic of of long
long free
free burning
burning arcarc with
with time
time is shown
is shown in Figure
in Figure 8. 8.
2000
Arc formation
0.1-5 ms
5-32 ms
32-60 ms
1500
>60 ms
Voltage (V)
1000
Arc extinction
500 Local short-circuit processes
0
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500
Current (A)
Figure
Figure 8. 8. Variation
Variation of of
U-IU-I characteristic
characteristic of of long
long free
free burning
burning arcarc with
with time.
time.
The U-I characteristic can also be divided into four phases based on the arc development process:
The U-I characteristic can also be divided into four phases based on the arc development process:
Phase I (0.1–3 ms): In this phase, the arc current Iarc rises but the arc voltage Uarc falls off quickly.
Phase I
The U-I(0.1–3 ms): In this
characteristic phase,
curve Uarc(Ithe arc current Iarc obeys
arc) approximately rises but the arc power
a negative Uarc falls
voltagefunction off quickly.
law.
The U-IPhase
characteristic curveInUthis
II (3–32 ms): arc (Iphase,
arc ) approximately obeys
the arc current a negative
remains power
at a high function
level, and onlaw.
the other hand,
the arc voltage shows a slight uptrend with vibrations caused by the local short circuit processes.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 8 of 19
Phase II (3–32 ms): In this phase, the arc current remains at a high level, and on the other hand, the arc
voltage shows a slight uptrend with vibrations caused by the local short circuit processes.
Phase III (32–60 ms): In this phase, the arc current decreases continuously, the arc voltage vibrations
are more violent and frequent, which implies frequent local short circuit processes.
Phase IV Phase
(60–70IIIms): In this
(32–60 ms):phase,
In thisthe arc goes
phase, intocurrent
the arc the extinction state,
decreases and both the
continuously, the arc
arc current
voltage and
voltage are decreasing.
vibrations are more violent and frequent, which implies frequent local short circuit processes.
Phase IV (60–70 ms): In this phase, the arc goes into the extinction state, and both the arc current
3.2.2.and
E-Ivoltage
Characteristic of Long Free Burning Arc
are decreasing.
The majority of arc voltage drops on the arc column for the free burning arc. Therefore, the voltage
3.2.2. E-I Characteristic of Long Free Burning Arc
drop on the arc roots can be neglected. Then the electric field of arc column Earc equals:
The majority of arc voltage drops on the arc column for the free burning arc. Therefore, the
voltage drop on the arc roots can be neglected. ThenUthe
arc electric field of arc column Earc equals:
Earc = (2)
L arc
U
Earc = arc
(2)
where Uarc (V) is the arc voltage and Larc (mm) is arc Larc length at the measured moment respectively.
It was found
where that
Uarc (V)the relation
is the between
arc voltage and the electric
Larc (mm) field
is arc of arcatcolumn
length Earc (V/mm)
the measured momentand the arc current
respectively. It
Iarc (A) can be expressed in the following form [11]:
was found that the relation between the electric field of arc column Earc (V/mm) and the arc current
Iarc (A) can be expressed in the following form [11]:
−n
Earc = a + bI−arc (3)
Earc = a + bI arc
n
(3)
where, a, b and
where, n are
a, b and both
n are positive
both positive constant
constantcoefficients.
coefficients. The resultsofof[6]
The results [6]indicated
indicated a = a0.95
that
that = 0.95
V/mm, V/mm,
b = 5band n = n1 =for
= 5 and long
1 for longairair
gap.
gap.Here,
Here,the theexperimental dataare
experimental data arefitted
fittedbyby Equation
Equation (3) (3) assuming
assuming n = 1,n = 1,
and the
andfitted results
the fitted results a =a0.87
are are = 0.87 V/mm,bb== 5.77. Figure
V/mm, Figure99presents
presents the
the variation
variation of arc
of arc column
column electric
electric
field with the arc current (E-I characteristic).
field with the arc current (E-I characteristic). In In [6], the arc elongation was not considered
the arc elongation was not considered so their so their
calculated
calculated electric
electric fieldfield
EarcEarc
= =UU /L
arc
arc
/L gp should
gp shouldbebehigher
higherthan thethe
than actual electric
actual field field
electric Earc = E
Uarc
arc/L . arc /Larc .
=arcU
1.6
1.2 −1
U=0.95+5I
Electric field (V/mm)
0.8
−1
U=0.86+5.77I
0.4 Experimental data

Fitted result
Ref.[6]
0.0
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500
Current (A)
Figure 9. 9.E-I
Figure E-Icharacteristic of long
characteristic of longfree
freeburning
burning arc.
arc.
4. Insulation
4. Insulation Coordination
Coordination ofof ArcingHorns
Arcing Hornson
on HVDC
HVDC Electrode
ElectrodeLines
Lines
4.1. Characteristic
4.1. U-I U-I Characteristic of HVDC
of HVDC ElectrodeLines
Electrode Linesand
and Fault
Fault Arc
Arc
4.1.1.4.1.1. U-I Characteristic

U-I Characteristic of of HVDC
HVDC ElectrodeLines
Electrode Lines
The The
power power transfer
transfer of aof±a 800
±800kV
kVHVDC
HVDC system
system isis5000
5000MWMW(at(at
bi-polar mode)
bi-polar andand
mode) its operating
its operating
current I dc is 3150 A. The lengths of electrode lines on each side is 100 km. The electrode lines are
current Idc is 3150 A. The lengths of electrode lines on each side is 100 km. The electrode lines are
double circuit transmission lines, and the resistance of each electrode line Rl is 4.885 Ω. The resistance
double circuit transmission lines, and the resistance of each electrode line Rl is 4.885 Ω. The resistance
of electrode Re is 0.5 Ω, and the tower footing resistance Rt is 15 Ω.
of electrode Re is 0.5 Ω, and the tower footing resistance Rt is 15 Ω.
Figure 10 shows the equivalent circuit of a grounding fault on the electrode lines operated in
Figure 10 shows
mono-polar the equivalent
mode. Usually circuitfault
the grounding of aongrounding fault
the electrode lineson thenot
does electrode
influencelines operated in
the operation
mono-polar
current and only the static stability of system is of concern, hence the station can be regarded asoperation
mode. Usually the grounding fault on the electrode lines does not influence the a DC
current source.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 9 of 19
current and only the static stability of system is of concern, hence the station can be regarded as a DC
current source.
Rl
kRl (1-k)Rl
Igp
+
_ Ugp
Re Idc
Rt
Figure 10. Equivalent circuit of single line grounding fault on electrode line system.
Figure 10. Equivalent circuit of single line grounding fault on electrode line system.
Here, k represents for the relative fault location:
Here, k represents for the relative fault location:
Df
k= (4)
Ds
D f
k= (4)
Dselectrode, Ds is the distance from the station to
where Df is the distance from the fault location to the
the electrode as well as the length of electrode line. The fault location lie between the electrode and
Df station,
wherethe is the distance from the fault location to the electrode, D is the distance from the station to
so the value of k should limit in the range from 0 to 1. s
the electrode as well to
According asKirchhoff’s
the lengthlaw,of electrode line. The fault
the U-I characteristic location
of external lie between
system Ugp(Igp) isthe electrode
expressed as: and the
station, so the value of k should limit in the range from 0 to 1.
k  1 − cn 2 
According to Kirchhoff’s = ( Rthe
U gplaw, e
+ U-I ⋅ I dc −  Re + Rt + (of external
Rl )characteristic k + k ) ⋅system
Rl  ⋅ I gp Ugp (Igp ) is expressed
(5) as:
cn  cn 
12−forcnthis

where cn is theUconductor k
number of electrode lines (c = 2 case). Equation (5) is a linear
gp = ( Re + Rl ) · Idc − Re + Rt + ( n k + k) · Rl · Igp (5)
cn as:
function which can be simplified cn
where cn is the conductor number of electrode U gp = lines

A − B ⋅(c
I gp = 2 for this case). Equation (5) is(6)a linear
n
function which can be simplified as:
Here, the coefficients A and B stand for:
Ugp = A − B · Igp (6)
k
A ≡ ( Re + R )⋅ I (7)
Here, the coefficients A and B stand for: cn l dc
 1 −kcn 2 
B ≡A R≡ + R +(
e ( Rt e + Rkl ) +· Ikdc
) ⋅ Rl  (8) (7)
 c
cnn 
1 − cn 2

B≡
4.1.2. U-I Characteristic of Fault Arc Re + Rt + ( k + k ) · Rl (8)
cn
From Equations (2) and (3), the U-I Characteristic of Fault arc Uarc(Iarc) is expressed as:
4.1.2. U-I Characteristic of Fault Arc
bLarc
arc arc
U =aL + (9)
From Equations (2) and (3), the U-I Characteristic arc Fault arc Uarc (Iarc ) is expressed as:
Iof
where a = 0.87 and b = 5.77. Equation (9) is a negative power

bL function which can be simplified as:
arc
Uarc = aL arc + (9)
D Iarc
Uarc =C + (10)
I arc
where a = 0.87 and b = 5.77. Equation (9) is a negative power function which can be simplified as:
Here, the coefficients C and D stand for:
D
Uarc C=≡CaL+arc (11) (10)
Iarc
D ≡ bLarc (12)
Here, the coefficients C and D stand for:
It is supposed that the arc on the arcing horns will elongate from the discharge gap length Lgp to
C ≡ aL
the final stable arc length Lst which is much larger than
arc initial arc length. The stable arc length Lst is (11)
D ≡ bL arc (12)
Energies 2018, 11, 430 10 of 19
It is supposed that the arc on the arcing horns will elongate from the discharge gap length Lgp to
the final stable arc length Lst which is much larger than initial arc length. The stable arc length Lst is
taken as the arc length for calculation, the arcing horns with gap lengths of 450, 600, 1000, 1500 mm
correspond to the final stable arc lengths Lst of 1100, 1350, 1700, 2500 mm, respectively.
4.2. Protection Region of Arcing Horns
4.2.1. Solutions of State Equation

There is only one solution point for the critical burning state. It is assumed that the current of
critical burning state is Icr and the correlated relative fault location is kcr . Combine Equations (6) and
(10) and let Ugp = Uarc , Igp = Iarc = Icr , it yields the state equation:
D
A − BIcr = C + (13)
Icr
Then rewrite Equation (13) in the form of quadratic equation:
2
BIcr + (C − A) Icr + D = 0 (14)
Hence the general solutions of Equation (14) are:

1
q
Icr = A − C ± ( A − C )2 − 4BD (15)
2B
Considering that there is only solution of Icr for the critical burning state, thus:
( A − C )2 − 4BD = 0 (16)
A−C
Icr = (17)
2B
Noticing that A and B are functions of kcr , the full expression of Equation (16) as a function of kcr
is deduced as:
2
1 − cn 2

k cr
( Re + R ) · Idc − aL arc − 4bL arc · Re + Rt + ( k cr + k cr ) · Rl = 0 (18)
cn l cn
Then rewrite Equation (18) in the form of quadratic equation:
A0 k2cr + B0 k cr + C 0 = 0 (19)
where, A0 , B0 and C0 stands for:
( Rl Idc )2 − 4cn · (1 − cn ) · bL arc Rl

A0 ≡ (20)
c2n
2Rl Idc · ( Re Idc − aL arc ) − 4cn bL arc Rl

B0 ≡ (21)
cn
C 0 ≡ ( Re Idc − aL arc )2 + 4bL arc · ( Re + Rt ) (22)
Finally, the general solutions of kcr are:
1 0
p
2 − 4A0 C 0

k cr = − B ± B (23)
2A0
Energies 2018, 11, 430 11 of 19
Since there may be two solutions of kcr , there may be two solutions of Icr as well. In the next
subsection, it is indicated that not all the solutions of kcr and Icr are reasonable.
4.2.2. Protection Region of Arcing Horns

4.2.2. Protection Region of Arcing Horns
The protection region of
The protection arcing
region hornshorns
of arcing is related
is related kcrkcronly
to to onlyifif the realsolution
the real solutionof of kcr and
kcr and Icr exists.
Icr exists.
Figure 11 shows the
Figure 11 possible
shows real solutions
the possible of kcr
real solutions of and IcrIcrfor
kcr and forcritical burningstates
critical burning states in real
in real plane.
plane.
2000
kcr,1=kcr,2
Uarc
Igp=0 Icr,2>0 Ugp
1500
k=kcr,2
1000 Icr,1=±∝
Voltage (V)
kcr,1=kcr,2
500 Ugp=C
Icr,1<0
k=kcr,1
0
Icr,1=Icr,2=0
-500
-400 -200 0 200 400
Current (A)
Figure 11. Possible real solutions of kcr and Icr for critical burning states in real plane.
Figure 11. Possible real solutions of kcr and Icr for critical burning states in real plane.
From Figure 11, it is known that there are two solutions Icr,1 < 0 and Icr,2 > 0 except the situation
FromIcr,1
Figure
= Icr,2 =11, it is known
0 when Igp = 0. Inthat there are
a practical case,two solutions
Icr should Icr,1 < 0positive
be a limited and Icr,2 > 0Therefore,
value. except theIcr,2situation
is a
Icr,1 = Icr,2 reasonable
= 0 whensolution
Igp = 0.and In the special situation
a practical case, Icr Igp should
= 0 and be Ugpa=limited
C should also be value.
positive excluded. The
Therefore,
corresponded relative fault location of Icr,2 is kcr,2:
Icr,2 is a reasonable solution and the special situation Igp = 0 and Ugp = C should also be excluded.
The corresponded relative fault location kof Icr,2 1
= is k−cr,2
cr ,2 (
B ' +: B '2 − 4 A ' C '
2A'
) (24)
If kcr,2 < 0 which meanskthe

1 cannot
arcing horns 0
p
02 − the
protect

0electrode
0 lines. If kcr,2 > 1 which means (24)
cr,2 = − B + B 4A C
2A0 lines. If 0 < kcr,2 < 1 which means the arcing horns protect part
the arcing horns protect all the electrode
of the electrode lines. Finally, the (relative) protection region of arcing horns kp is:
If kcr,2 < 0 which means the arcing horns cannot protect the electrode lines. If kcr,2 > 1 which means
the arcing horns protect all the electrode lines. If0 0 < kcr,2 <when kcr ,2 <means
1 which 0 the arcing horns protect

part of the electrode lines. Finally,k the
=
(relative)
1
P
protection

 2A'
( region of arcing
− B ' + B ' − 4 A ' C ' when 0 < k < 1
2 horns
)
kp is:
cr ,2 (25)
  1 when kkcr ,2 > 1< 0
 0 when cr,2
√


1 0 02 0 0
kP =
 2A0 − B + B − 4A C when 0 < k cr,2 < 1 (25)
5. Influence Factors on Protection Performance of Arcing Hornsk
1 when cr,2 > 1

5.1. Analysis Method of Influence Factors Based on Power Balance

5. Influence Factors on Protection Performance of Arcing Horns
5.1.1. Relations between Power Balance, Protection Performance and U-I Characteristics
5.1. Analysis Method of Influence Factors Based on Power Balance
The essential of static stability of fault arcs is the power balance between the power supplied by
external
5.1.1. Relations system and
between the power
Power consumed
Balance, by thePerformance
Protection fault arc. If theand
power
U-Isupplied by external system
Characteristics
is less than the power consumed by the fault arc, then the fault arc will cool down and be extinguished
The essential ofInstatic
eventually. otherstability
words, if of
wefault
wantarcs is the
a better powerperformance
protection balance between thehorns,
for arcing power wesupplied
should by
reduce the power supplied by the external system and increase the power consumed
external system and the power consumed by the fault arc. If the power supplied by external system by the fault arc. is
This idea is inspired that the analysis of the factors influencing the protection region
less than the power consumed by the fault arc, then the fault arc will cool down and be extinguished that can be
converted to the analysis of the factors influencing the power balance between the external system
eventually. In other words, if we want a better protection performance for arcing horns, we should
and the fault arc.
reduce the power supplied by the external system and increase the power consumed by the fault
arc. This idea is inspired that the analysis of the factors influencing the protection region that can be
converted to the analysis of the factors influencing the power balance between the external system and
the fault arc.
Energies 2018,11,
Energies2018, 11,430
x FOR PEER REVIEW 12
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19
For a given point on the U-I characteristic, the power P = U·I consumed or released is decided
For
by its a givenparameters
position point on the U-I U.
I and characteristic,
Therefore thethepower U ·I consumed
powerofPa=given point can or
be released
increasedis(or
decided by
reduced)
its position parameters I and U. Therefore the power of a given point can be increased (or reduced)
by lifting (or lowering) the U-I characteristic. In the end, the analysis of the influence factors on the
by lifting (or
protection lowering)
region can bethefurther
U-I characteristic.
converted to In thethe end, the
analysis of analysis of thefactors
the influence influence
on factors
the U-I
on the protection
characteristic. region can be further converted to the analysis of the influence factors on the
U-I characteristic.
5.1.2. Influence of Circuit Parameters on U-I Characteristics
5.1.2. Influence of Circuit Parameters on U-I Characteristics
The U-I characteristic of fault arc is in form of Equation (9). According to Equation (9), The U-I
The U-I characteristic of fault arc is in form of Equation (9). According to Equation (9), The U-I
characteristic of fault arc can be lifted by increasing the arc length Larc.
characteristic of fault arc can be lifted by increasing the arc length Larc .
On the other hand, the U-I characteristic of external system is in form of Equation (6) which is a
On the other hand, the U-I characteristic of external system is in form of Equation (6) which
linear function. In fact, A is the vertical intercept and B is the slope of Equation (6). The U-I
is a linear function. In fact, A is the vertical intercept and B is the slope of Equation (6). The U-I
characteristic of external system can be lowered by reducing the vertical intercept or increasing the
characteristic of external system can be lowered by reducing the vertical intercept or increasing
slope.
the slope.
5.2.Variation
5.2. VariationofofProtection
ProtectionPerformance
PerformanceofofArcing
ArcingHorns
Hornswith
withCircuit
CircuitParameters
Parameters
5.2.1.Arc
5.2.1. ArcLength
Length
Althoughit it
Although is the
is the arc arc length
length notdischarge
not the the discharge gap distance
gap distance of arcingofhorns
arcing horns
which which
directly directly
influence
influence the protection region according to the state equations, the discharge
the protection region according to the state equations, the discharge gap distance of arcing hornsgap distance of arcing
can
horns
still havecan
anstill have an
influence byinfluence
deciding by
thedeciding
stable arcthe stable
length. arc length.
Figure 12 showsFigure 12 shows of
the influence thearc
influence
length on of
arc length on the protection region of arcing horns. The protection region increases almost
the protection region of arcing horns. The protection region increases almost linear with the arc length. linear with
the arcarc
Longer length.
lengthLonger arc length
means larger energymeans larger energy
consumption of arc, soconsumption of arc, so that
that the U-I characteristic the arc
of fault U-I
characteristic
will of fault
be lifted, and arc will be
the protection lifted,ofand
region thehorns
arcing protection region
increases withofthe
arcing horns increases
arc length. The arcing with
hornsthe
arc length. The arcing horns can protect the electrode line only if the stable arc length
can protect the electrode line only if the stable arc length is more than 1100 mm. For the arcing horns is more than
11001500
with mm.mm For discharge
the arcinggaphorns withwhose
length 1500 mmstabledischarge gap
arc length length
is 2500 whose
mm, stable arc length
the protection region is is 2500
just
mm, the protection region is just 20.1%. It can be concluded that the arcing horns has
20.1%. It can be concluded that the arcing horns has poor protection performance for electrode lines of poor protection
performance
larger operationforcurrent
electrode
andlines
longofdistance.
larger operation current and long distance.
40
Protection region (%)
30
20
10
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000

Arc length (mm)
Figure12.
Figure 12.Influence
Influenceof
ofarc
arclength
lengthon
onprotection
protectionregion
regionofofarcing
arcinghorn.
horn.
5.2.2.Tower
5.2.2. TowerFooting
FootingResistance
Resistance
Figure13
Figure 13and
and Table
Table 22 show
show the
the influence
influence of
of tower
towerfooting
footingresistance
resistanceon
onthe
theprotection
protectionregion of
region
arcing
of arcinghorns.
horns.The
Theprotection
protectionregion
regionincreases
increaseswith
with the
the tower footing resistance,
tower footing resistance, but
but the
theinfluence
influence
decreases as the tower footing resistance increases.
decreases as the tower footing resistance increases.
Sincethe
Since theslope
slopeBBincreases
increaseswith
withthethetower
towerfooting
footingresistance,
resistance,the
theU-I
U-Icharacteristic
characteristicofofexternal
external
systemwill
system willbe
belowered
loweredwhich
whichmeans
meansthetheenergy
energysupplied
suppliedby bythe
theexternal
externalsystem
systemwill
willdecrease
decreaseas aswell.
well.
Finally, the protection region of arcing horns increases with the tower footing resistance.
Finally, the protection region of arcing horns increases with the tower footing resistance.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 13 of 19
25
25 450 mm
600
450mm
mm
20 600 mm
1000
20 1000mm
1500 mm

1500 mm

15
15
10 10
5 5
0 0
0 0 33 66 99 1212 15 15
Tower footing resistance (Ω)
Tower footing resistance (Ω)
FigureInfluence
13. Influence of tower footing resistanceon
on protection region of arcing horns.
Figure 13. Influenceofoftower
Figure13. towerfooting
footingresistance
resistance onprotection
protectionregion
regionofofarcing
arcinghorns.
horns.
Table 2. Influence of tower footing resistance on protection region of arcing horns.
Table2.2.Influence
Table Influenceofoftower
towerfooting
footingresistance
resistanceononprotection
protectionregion
regionofofarcing
arcinghorns.
horns.
Protection Region (%)
Rt (Ω)
450 mm Protection Region
600 mm Region
Protection 1000 mm(%)(%)1500 mm
Rt (Ω)
Rt (Ω) 3 450 mm
0 600 0mm 1000 4.8mm 1500 13.8 mm
450 mm 600 mm 1000 mm 1500 mm
3 6 00 00 5.3
4.8 14.4
13.8
3 6 9 0 00 00
0.7 5.34.8
6.0 14.413.8
15.2
6 9 12 0 00 0
1.8
0.7 7.3
6.05.3 15.214.4
16.7
9 15 0 0 0.7
4.4 10.26.0 20.1 15.2
12 0 1.8 7.3 16.7
12 0 1.8 7.3 16.7
15 15
5.2.3. Electrode Resistance 0 0 4.4
4.4 10.2
10.2 20.120.1
Figure 14
5.2.3. Electrode and Table 3 show the influence of electrode resistance on the protection region of
Resistance
5.2.3. arcing
Electrode Resistance
horns. As the result shown, the protection region decreases almost linearly with the electrode
Figure 14and
resistance, and Table 3 horns
show isthe influence of electrode resistance on the protection region of
Figure 14 and the arcing
Table 3 show theinvalid for protection
influence at large
of electrode electrodeon
resistance resistance.
the protection region of
arcing horns.
Both As
the the result
vertical shown,
intercept A the
andprotection
the slope B region
increasedecreases almost linearly
with the electrode with
resistance the electrode
Re. However
arcing horns. As the result shown, the protection region decreases almost linearly with the electrode
resistance, and
the effect of the arcing
Re on hornsbecause
B is limited is invalid for R
Rt and protection
l are usuallyatmuch
largelarger
electrode
than resistance.
Re, hence the effect of Re
resistance, and the arcing horns is invalid for protection at large electrode resistance.
Both
on A isthe vertical As
dominant. intercept A and the
a consequence, theslope B increase with
U-I characteristic the electrode
of external resistance
system will Re.which
be raised However
Both
means thethe
vertical
energy intercept
supplied A and
by the the slope
external B increase
system will with the
increase, andelectrode
the resistance
protection regionReof. However
arcing
the effect of Re on B is limited because Rt and Rl are usually much larger than Re, hence the effect of Re
the effect Re on B iswith
ofdecreases limitedelectrode Rt and Rl are usually much larger than Re , hence the effect of Re
because resistance.
on Ahorns
is dominant. As a the
consequence, the U-I characteristic of external system will be raised which
on A is dominant. As a consequence, the U-I characteristic of external system will be raised which
means the energy supplied by the external system will increase, and the protection region of arcing
means the energy supplied by50the external system will increase, and the protection region of arcing
horns decreases with the electrode resistance.
horns decreases with the electrode resistance. 450 mm
40 600 mm
50 1000 mm
1500 mm
30 450 mm
40 600 mm
1000 mm
20 1500 mm
30
10
20
0
10 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0

Electrode resistance (Ω)
0
Figure 14. Influence of electrode resistance on protection region of arcing horns.
0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0
Electrode resistance (Ω)
Figure14.
Figure 14.Influence
Influenceofofelectrode
electroderesistance
resistanceon
onprotection
protectionregion
regionofofarcing
arcinghorns.
horns.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 14 of 19
Table 3. Influence of electrode resistance on protection region of arcing horns.


Re3.(Ω)
Table Influence of electrode resistance on protection region of arcing horns.
450 mm 600 mm 1000 mm 1500 mm
0.1 Re (Ω)14.9 20.9mm 100026.7 36.6
450 mm 600 mm 1500 mm
0.2 0.1 13.9 14.9 19.9
20.9 25.7
26.7 36.6 35.5
0.3 0.2 12.2 13.9 18.2
19.9 24.0
25.7 35.5 33.8
0.4 0.3 8.8 12.2 14.7
18.2 20.5
24.0 33.8 30.4
0.5 0.4 0 8.8 4.4
14.7 10.2
20.5 30.4 20.1
0.5 0 4.4 10.2 20.1
5.2.4. Line Resistance
5.2.4. Line Resistance
Figure 15 and Table 4 show the influence of line resistance on the protection region of arcing horns.
Figure 15 and Table 4 show the influence of line resistance on the protection region of arcing
The protection region decreases with the line resistance, but the rate of decline falls off with the line
horns. The protection region decreases with the line resistance, but the rate of decline falls off with
resistance. A full protection can be realized at small line resistance which demonstrates that arcing
the line resistance. A full protection can be realized at small line resistance which demonstrates that
horns arcing
are very effective
horns foreffective
are very short HVDC electrode
for short lines. Forlines.
HVDC electrode the line resistance
For the Rl , both
line resistance Rl,the vertical
both the
intercept A and
vertical the slope
intercept B increase
A and the slopewith Rl . When
B increase withRRl lis small,Rthe
. When effect of Rl on AofisRdominated,
l is small, the effect l on A is
and the U-I characteristic
dominated, and the U-Iof external system
characteristic of will be lifted
external system which means
will be liftedthe energy
which meanssupplied
the energyby the
external systembywill
supplied the increase. Thus the
external system willprotection region
increase. Thus the decreases with the
protection region line resistance.
decreases with the lineAs Rl
resistance. As R increases, the effect of R on B becomes stronger, so that the rate
increases, the effect of Rl on B becomes stronger, so that the rate of decline of the protection region
l l of decline of the
protection region falls off.
falls off.
100 450 mm
600 mm
80 1000 mm
1500 mm
60
40
20
0 1 2 3 4 5
Line resistance (Ω)
Figure 15. Influence of line resistance on protection region of arcing horns.

Figure 15. Influence of line resistance on protection region of arcing horns.
Table 4. Influence of line resistance on protection region of arcing horns.

Table 4. Influence of line resistance on protection region of arcing horns.
Rl (Ω)
450 mm Protection
600 mm Region
1000 mm (%)1500 mm
Rl (Ω) 0.977 0 22.2 51.0 99.8
450 mm0
1.954 60017.7
mm 1000
40.8 mm 80.01500 mm
0.977 2.931 0 0 13.3
22.2 30.7
51.0 60.1 99.8
1.954 3.908 0 0 8.9
17.7 20.5
40.8 40.1 80.0
2.931 4.885 0 0 4.4
13.3 10.2
30.7 20.1 60.1
3.908 0 8.9 20.5 40.1
5.2.5. Operation Current
4.885 0 4.4 10.2 20.1
Figure 16 and Table 5 show the influence of operation current on the protection region of arcing
5.2.5. Operation Current region decreases with the operation current, but the rate of decline falls off with
horns. The protection
the operation current. A full protection can be realized at low operation current which demonstrates
Figure 16 and Table 5 show the influence of operation current on the protection region of arcing
that arcing horns are very effective for HVDC electrode lines with small operation currents. For the
horns. operation
The protection region decreases with the operation current, but the rate of decline falls off with
current Idc, the vertical intercept A increases with Idc, and the U-I characteristic of external
the operation current. A full protection can be realized at low operation current which demonstrates
that arcing horns are very effective for HVDC electrode lines with small operation currents. For the
Energies 2018, 11, 430 15 of 19

operation current Idc , the vertical intercept A increases with Idc , and the U-I characteristic of external
system system
will bewilllifted whichwhich
be lifted means the energy
means supplied
the energy byby
supplied the external
the externalsystem
system will increase.Therefore
will increase. Therefore
Energies
the protection2018, 11, x FOR
regionregion PEER REVIEW
of arcing hornshorns
decreases with thethe
operation current. 15 of 19
the protection of arcing decreases with operation current.
system will be lifted which means the energy supplied by the external system will increase. Therefore
100 horns decreases with the operation current.
the protection region of arcing 450 mm
600 mm
80 1000 mm
1500 mm
100 450 mm
600 mm
60
80 1000 mm
1500 mm
40
60
20
40
0
20
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000
0 Operation current (A)
0 500of operation
1000 1500 2000 2500 region
3000of arcing horns.
FigureFigure 16. Influence
16. Influence of operation current
current on on protection
protection region of arcing horns.
Operation current (A)
Table Table
Figure 16.5.Influence
Influence
5. Influence ofofoperation
operation
of operation current
current onon
current on protection
protection
protection regionofofarcing
region
region arcinghorns.
arcing horns.
horns.
Idc (A)
Table
Idc5.(A) 450 mmProtection
Influence of operation 600 mm
current
Region
1000 mm
on protection
(%) 1500ofmm
region arcing horns.
630
450 mm77.1 600 100.0mm 100.0mm 100.0
1000 1500 mm
1260 57.3 Protection
81.6 Region (%)
100.0 100.0
630 Idc (A) 77.1 450 mm 100.0
600 mm 1000 100.0 100.0
1890 37.5 55.8 73.4 1500100.0
mm mm
1260 630 57.377.1 81.6
100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0
100.0
2520 17.8 29.9 41.7 61.6
1890 1260 37.557.3 55.8
81.6 73.4
100.0 100.0 100.0
3150 0 4.4 10.2 20.1
2520 1890 17.837.5 29.9
55.8 73.441.7 100.0 61.6
3150 2520 0 17.8 4.4
29.9 41.710.2 61.6 20.1
5.2.6. Conductor Number
3150 0 4.4 10.2 20.1
Figure 17 and Table 6 show the influence of conductor number on the protection region of arcing
5.2.6. Conductor Number
horns.
5.2.6. The protection
Conductor Number region increases almost linearly with the conductor number. For the conductor
Figure
number 17 and Table
cn, both 6 show
vertical the influence
intercept A and theofslope
conductor
B decreasenumber
with on theRprotection
cn. As regionpart
t counts majority of arcing
of B,
Figure 17 and Table 6 show the influence of conductor number on the protection region of arcing
the effect
horns. The of cn onregion
protection B is limited, in turn,
increases the effect
almost of cnwith
linearly on A the
is dominant,
conductor so number.
the U-I characteristic of the
For the conductor
horns. The protection region increases almost linearly with the conductor number. For the conductor
external
cn , both system will be lowered
AAand which slope
meansBthe energywith
supplied byRthe external systempartwill
numbernumber vertical
cn, both intercept
vertical intercept andthe
the slope B decrease
decrease with cn.cAs
n . As t counts
Rt counts majority
majority part of B, of
decrease,
B, thethe and
ofofcncnon the arcing horns protection region will increase.
effect
effect onBB is limited,ininturn,
is limited, turn,
thethe
effect of cnofoncnAon
effect A is dominant,
is dominant, so characteristic
so the U-I the U-I characteristic
of the
of theexternal
externalsystem
systemwill willbebelowered
loweredwhich
which means
means the the energy
energy supplied
supplied by by
the the external
external system
system willwill
80
decrease, and the
decrease, andarcing horns
the arcing protection
horns protectionregion
region
450 mm will
willincrease.
increase.
600 mm
80 60 1000 mm
1500 mm
450 mm
600 mm
60 40 1000 mm
1500 mm
40 20
20 0
1 2 3 4 5 6
0 Conductor number
1
Figure 17. Influence of2 conductor
3 on protection
4 5region of
6 arcing horns.
Conductor number
Figure
Figure 17. 17. Influence
Influence of of conductoron
conductor onprotection
protection region
regionof
ofarcing
arcinghorns.
horns.
Energies 2018, 11, 430 16 of 19
Table 6. Influence of conductor on protection region of arcing horns.

n
450 mm 600 mm 1000 mm 1500 mm
1 0 2.2 5.1 10.0
2 0 4.4 10.2 20.1
3 0 6.7 15.5 30.3
4 0 9.0 20.7 40.6
5 0 11.3 26.0 50.8
6 0 13.6 31.4 61.0
5.3. Analysis on Influence Factors Based on Approximation Solution of State Equation
5.3.1. Approximation Solution of State Equation

The full expression of Equation (25) is quite complex for analysis. In this subsection, the approximation
solution of state equation will be proposed for further analysis on influence factors.
Generally, the total resistance of whole electrode lines should be as small as possible to ensure
they are well grounded, otherwise a relatively high voltage will drop on the electrode lines which is
not expected. In addition, large tower footing resistance can improve the performance of arcing horns.
Therefore, it is proper to suppose that Rt >> Rl and Re , and Equation (18) can be simplified into:
2
k cr
( Re + R ) · Idc − aL arc − 4bL arc Rt = 0 (26)
cn l
and then the approximation solutions of kcr are:

cn
k0cr =
p
aL arc − Re Idc ± 4bL arc Rt (27)
Rl Idc
On the basis of the analysis in Section 4.2.2, the reasonable solution of k0cr for Icr > 0 is:
cn
k0cr,2 =
p
aL arc − Re Idc + 4bL arc Rt (28)
Rl Idc
Finally, the approximation protection region of arcing horns k0 p is:


0 when k0cr,2 < 0
√


cn
k0P when 0 < k0cr,2 < 1

= Rl Idc aL arc − Re Idc + 4bL arc Rt (29)
when k0cr,2 > 1

 1
5.3.2. Analysis on Influence of Circuit Parameters Based on Approximation Solutions

The derivatives of approximation protection region k0 p with respect to Larc , Re , Rl , Rt , Idc and
cn are: s
dk0p
!
cn bRt
= a+ (30)
dL arc Rl Idc L arc
dk0p cn
=− (31)
dRe Rl
dk0p cn p
=− 2
aL arc − Re Idc + 4bL arc Rt (32)
dRl Rl Idc
s
dk0p cn bL arc
= (33)
dRt Rl Idc Rt
Energies 2018, 11, 430 17 of 19
dk0p cn p
=− 2
aL arc + 4bL arc R t (34)
dIdc Rl Idc
dk0p 1 p
= aL arc − Re Idc + 4bL arc Rt (35)
dcn Rl Idc
when 0 ≤ k0 p ≤ 1. It is obvious that: dk0 p /dRe and dk0 p /dcn are constants; dk0 p /dLarc and dk0 p /dRt
are positive; dk0 p /dRe and dk0 p /dIdc are negative. The signs of dk0 p /dRl and dk0 p /dcn are decided
by the specific circuit parameters. Under our conditions that Idc = 3150 A, Re = 0.5 Ω, Rt = 15 Ω,
a = 0.87 V/mm, b = 5.77 and Larc = 1100~2500 mm, dk0 p /dRl < 0 and dk0 p /dcn > 0.
For the arc length Larc , when Larc is very large, dk0 p /dLarc ≈ αcn /Rl Idc > 0 can be assumed a constant.
Therefore, the protection region increases linearly with the arc length.
For the electrode resistance Re and the conductor number cn , considering that dk0 p /dRe is
a negative constant while dk0 p /dcn is a positive constant, which implies that the protection region will
decrease with the electrode resistance but increase linearly with the conductor number.
For the line resistance Rl and the operation current Idc , both of dk0 p /dRl and dk0 p /dIdc are negative
with a saturation trend according to Equations (32) and (34). Therefore, the protection region will
decrease with the line resistance and the operation current, but the rate of decline falls off gradually.
For the tower footing resistance Rt , dk0 p /dRt are positive and decreases with Rt according to
Equation (33). Consequently, the protection region will increase with the tower footing resistance,
but the influence decreases as the tower footing resistance increases.
The above theoretical analysis based on the approximation solutions coincides well with the
results calculated by the state equations shown in Section 5.2. It is proved that the approximation
solutions (Equations (30)–(35)) can be a useful tool for the fast evaluation of influence factors on the
protection performance of arcing horns.
6. Protection Performance Improvement Methods for Arcing Horns
6.1. Protection Performance Improvement by Adjusting Circuit Parameters

The efficient ways to improve the protection performance of arcing horns is increasing the
arc voltage and tower footing resistance, and reducing the total resistance of electrode line system
(including the line resistance and electrode resistance).
According to Equation (10), the arc voltage Uarc can be elevated by elongating the arc length
Larc or cooling the arc to increase the arc constants a and b. Increasing the discharge gap length of
arcing horns is the simplest way to elongate the arc length. Auxiliary devices for arc extinction are also
recommended to improve the protection performance. In [15–17], a gas jet was used to elongate the
arc and promote the arc cooling process.
Increasing the diameter of the conductor and conductor number can reduce the line resistance,
however, extra expense is required. In [14], neutral conductor was used as additional ground return
which can reduce the total resistance of electrode line system, so that a better protection performance
is achieved.
6.2. Protection Performance Improvement by Diffirential Arcing Horns Configuration Strategy

Figure 18 shows the variation of U-I characteristic of external system with the fault location.
The U-I characteristic of the place near the station is higher than that of the place near the electrode.
That is to say, arc extinction is harder for a place near the station.
In the place near the electrode, the arcing horns with short discharge gap length is enough for
full protection. Wherever, in the place near the station, even the arcing horns with long discharge gap
length may not achieve full protection, and auxiliary devices for arc extinction are needed as well.
Considering that the arc extinction devices will incur extra expenses, it is unnecessary to install the
arc extinction devices all along the electrode lines. Therefore, the diversified configuration strategy
Energies 2018, 11, 430 18 of 19
of arcing horns is recommended for cost savings, which means arcing horns of short discharge gap
length are sufficient and recommended for the place near the electrode, meanwhile, arcing horns of
long discharge gap length with additional arc extinction devices are recommended for the places near
the station.
10000
10,000
k=1
8000
k=0.8
k=0.6
Voltage (V)
6000
k=0.4
4000
k=0.2
2000
k=0
0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600
Current (A)
Figure18.
Figure 18.U-I
U-Icharacteristic
characteristicofofexternal
externalsystem
systematatdifferent
differentfault
faultlocation.
location.
In the place near the electrode, the arcing horns with short discharge gap length is enough for
7. Conclusions
full protection. Wherever, in the place near the station, even the arcing horns with long discharge gap
In this
length maypaper, experiments
not achieve were carried
full protection, andout to studydevices
auxiliary the characteristics of longare
for arc extinction free burning
needed as arcs
well.
and the insulation coordination of arcing horns on the electrode lines of a 5000 MW, ± 800 kV
Considering that the arc extinction devices will incur extra expenses, it is unnecessary to install the HVDC
system. The factors
arc extinction influencing
devices all alongthe
theprotection
electrodeperformance of arcing
lines. Therefore, horns are analyzed
the diversified theoretically.
configuration strategy
The main conclusions
of arcing are summarized
horns is recommended as follows:
for cost savings, which means arcing horns of short discharge gap
(1)length
Theare sufficient and
development recommended
process for burning
of long free the placearcs
nearcan
thebe
electrode,
divided meanwhile, arcing horns
into slow expansion, fastof
longexpansion,
discharge gap length with additional arc extinction devices are recommended for
violent motion and extinction phases. The long free burning arc column is very the places near
the station.
unstable and made up of segments of short channels and conductive blurs. The local short circuit
is thought to be the main cause of the instability of arc column.
7. Conclusions
(2) The arcing horns are only suitable for the HVDC electrode lines systems of low operation current
In this
and paper,
short experiments
distance. For the were
HVDC carried out tolines
electrode study the characteristics
systems of longcurrent
of high operation free burning arcs
and long
anddistance,
the insulation coordination
the protection of arcingof
performance horns onhorns
arcing the electrode lines
is limited, andofadditional
a 5000 MW, ±800 kV
auxiliary HVDC
devices
system. Theextinction
for arc factors influencing
are neededtheto protection
realize fullperformance
protection. of arcing horns are analyzed theoretically.
(3)TheThe
main conclusions
effect ways forare
thesummarized as follows: improvement of arcing horns are increasing the
(1) arc
The voltage and tower
development footing
process of resistance, and reducing
long free burning arcs canthebe
total resistance
divided into of HDVC
slow electrode
expansion, fast
line system. Differential arcing horns configuration strategy is recommended
expansion, violent motion and extinction phases. The long free burning arc column is very for cost saving.
unstable and made up of segments of short channels and conductive blurs. The local short circuit
Acknowledgments: This work was supported by Central Southern China Electric Power Design Institute
is thought
(CSEPDI) of China to be the
Power main cause
Engineering of the instability
Consulting of arc column.
Group Corporation (DG1-A04-2013).
(2) The arcing horns are only suitable for the HVDC electrode lines systems of low operation current
Author Contributions: Xiandong Li analyzed the data, performed the experiment, and wrote the paper; Hua Li
andand
conceived short distance.
designed For the HVDC
the experiments; electrode
Yi Liu linesLin
and Fuchang systems of high operation
gave suggestions current and long
on the experiments.
distance, the protection performance of arcing horns is limited, and additional auxiliary devices
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
for arc extinction are needed to realize full protection.
(3) The effect ways for the protection performance improvement of arcing horns are increasing the
References
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Insulation - Coordination of - Arcing Horns - On - HVDC - Electrode - Lines - Protection - Perforance - Evaluation - Influence - Factors - and - Improvement - Method PDF

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energies

Received: 19 January 2018; Accepted: 11 February 2018; Published: 13 February 2018

1.1. Insulation Coordination Problem of Arcing Horns on HVDC Electrode Lines

Energies 2018, 11, 430; doi:10.3390/en11020430 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

(a) HVDC system operated in bi-polar mode

(b) HVDC system operated in mono-polar mode

Figure 1. Operation mode of HVDC system.

1000 Voltage 1000

1000 Voltage 1000

Figure 4. Typical current and voltage waveforms of a free burning arc.

3.1.2. Development Process of a Long Free Burning Arc

Arc voltage (V)

500 Local short-circuit processes

0.4 Experimental data

4.1.1.4.1.1. U-I Characteristic

where cn is the conductor number of electrode U gp = lines

where a = 0.87 and b = 5.77. Equation (9) is a negative power

4.2. Protection Region of Arcing Horns

4.2.1. Solutions of State Equation

Then rewrite Equation (13) in the form of quadratic equation:

Hence the general solutions of Equation (14) are:

Then rewrite Equation (18) in the form of quadratic equation:

where, A0 , B0 and C0 stands for:

( Rl Idc )2 − 4cn · (1 − cn ) · bL arc Rl

2Rl Idc · ( Re Idc − aL arc ) − 4cn bL arc Rl

Finally, the general solutions of kcr are:

4.2.2. Protection Region of Arcing Horns

If kcr,2 < 0 which meanskthe

5.1. Analysis Method of Influence Factors Based on Power Balance

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000

Protection region (%)

Protection region (%)

10 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0

Table 3. Influence of electrode resistance on protection region of arcing horns.

Protection Region (%)

Figure 15. Influence of line resistance on protection region of arcing horns.

Table 4. Influence of line resistance on protection region of arcing horns.

Energies 2018, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 19

Table 6. Influence of conductor on protection region of arcing horns.

Protection Region (%)

5.3. Analysis on Influence Factors Based on Approximation Solution of State Equation

5.3.1. Approximation Solution of State Equation

and then the approximation solutions of kcr are:

Finally, the approximation protection region of arcing horns k0 p is:

5.3.2. Analysis on Influence of Circuit Parameters Based on Approximation Solutions

6. Protection Performance Improvement Methods for Arcing Horns

6.1. Protection Performance Improvement by Adjusting Circuit Parameters

6.2. Protection Performance Improvement by Diffirential Arcing Horns Configuration Strategy

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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