The impact of multiple lightning strokes on the energy absorbed by MOV surge arresters in wind farms during direct lightning strikes

Abstract

a b s t r a c tThis paper proposes a modelling and simulation process for assessing the energy absorption capability of metal oxide varistor (MOV) surge arresters used for lightning protection of wind turbines electrical systems situated in wind farms, when exposed to multiple lightning strokes. A section of an existing wind farm, suitable for lightning transient overvoltage analysis is implemented in the Electromagnetic transients programme-Alternative transients programme (EMTP-ATP) environment and modelled as a test system for analysing the energy absorbed by the medium voltage surge arresters when multiple lightning strokes are terminated on one of the blade of the wind turbines. Two well-established sets of multiple lightning current parameters are employed in the EMTP-ATP simulations; the natural downward negative multiple lightning strokes recommended by CIGRE TB 549 (2013) and the downward positive multiple lightning strokes recommended by IEC 61400-24-2010 for lightning protection level one (LPL1). The results show that the subsequent stroke causes the surge arresters to absorbed less than ten percent additional energy compared to that of the first stroke. This comparative analysis could be found beneficial when designing lightning overvoltage protection system and for selecting the most cost effective and optimal energy absorption capabilities of the surge arresters for the intended wind farms.

Surge arrester operation investigation in low‐ and high‐current regions using MATLAB GUI: Implementing an educational goal for undergraduate students

“…By the way, MOSA adsorbed energy due to its wasted power can be considered as an important factor for condition monitoring. [16].…”

Analysis of Lightning Generated Over-Voltages on Voltage Regulating Devices in Distribution System with Centralized Wind Turbine Generators

“…The wind turbine structural components are modelled as surge impedances [6] and the interface between the phase windings and the wind turbine tower is treated as a coupling capacitance [10]. For the transient over voltage analysis, the wind turbine generator electrical components are modelled as a voltage source [4], [5], [6], [11].…”

“…Lightning is considered a fast front transient phenomenon, which injects over-voltages into the system due to steep rise times of the order of one to ten microseconds [5]. Therefore, the integration of WTGs to the distribution network should consider risk assessment and protection methods to overcome the problem of surge invasion due to lightning strikes.…”

Optimal Operation and Control Design of DC Arrester for Renewable Energy Transmission

“…In addition, HVDC transmission lines play a significant role under the environment with complex geographical conditions, e.g., large and fast temperature changes, as well as rough terrain that are prone to frequent and irregular lightning (Božidar et al, 2016) interference when severe meteorological changes occur (Malcolm and Aggarwal, 2015). Such conditions could bring great safety challenges to the operation of power transmission.…”