Modeling Of Three-winding Transformers Applied In a 12-pulse

HVDC System
Olatoundji Georges Gnonhouea, Fouad Slaoui-Hasnaouia, François-Xavier Fifatinb ,
Ângelo José Junqueira Rezekc , Maurel Richy Aza-Gnandjib
a
School of Engineering, University of Quebec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), Rouyn-Noranda, QC J9X 5E4, Canada
b
polytechnic school of Abomey Calavi (EPAC), Abomey-Calavi, Bénin
c
Federal University of Itajubá, Itajubá, Av. B P S, 1303 - Pinheirinho, Itajubá - MG, Brazil

Abstract

This work consists in analyzing, implementing and modeling the three-phase transformers of a 12-pulse High Voltage Direct
Current (HVDC) workbench in order to propitiate the comparison of the results obtained by the converter system simulation,
respectively to the experimental ones, provided by this implemented workbench and conducting short-circuit and open-circuit
tests in the laboratory respectively on the rectifier and inverter side. It consists in modeling the three-phase transformers (this
means determining the impedances, reactances and resistances of each transformer) of the rectifier and inverter of the HVDC
system, by making short-circuit tests in the laboratory and calculating the firing and commutation angles, to compare with the
experimental results obtained by using this didactic workbench. Finally, it will help to visualize in a practical way the voltage
and current waveforms of the 12 pulse converter system, to compare with simulated ones and determine the parameters of the
transformers. This means determining the impedances, reactances and resistances of each transformer.

Keywords: Rectifier; inverter; transformer; HVDC

1. Introduction

Since 1950s when the world’s first commercial DC power transmission grid was built in Sweden, people
gradually realized there are great advantages that DC power transmission grid has when comparing to traditional
AC grid [1-2]. In recent 10 years, as the rapid development in renewable energy systems, projects using DC
transmission and distribution grid is more and more being applied. [1],[3]

Advancements in power electronics are in power electronics are making High Voltage Direct Current
Transmission Systems (HVDC) more and more attractive and reliable. Developing countries like India and China
with their ambitious power capacity enhancement program are installing more HVDC systems for long distance
transmission. [4]

In order to obtain an economic and reliable energy transmission grid, the hvdc transmission becomes more
important, since it allows power transport over long distances with low losses. [5] The grid development plan
provides several HVDC interconnections to transport the electrical energy. E.g. from offshore wind farms in the
north to the consumers in the south . [5-6]

High voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission system has become a mature and well accepted technology.
HVDC is today recognized as an effective and efficient means of transmitting bulk power over long distances
through overhead lines. HVDC is also being increasingly applied in undersea and underground cable links and in
interconnections of two asynchronous power systems. Among the various components and subsystems existing
at an HVDC station, the converter transformer system (CTS) has a significant impact on the total availability of
the HVDC system. Depending on the design of the HVDC station and the existence of spare transformers [7]

* Corresponding author. Tel.: +1-514-430-9441.

E-mail address: georgesgnonhoue1@gmail.com, gnoo01@uqat.ca,
 Along with the increasing expansion of the power system, the HVDC system will play a more important role
in AC/DC interconnection. At present, the HVDC system has matured in long distance transmission of large
amounts of electric power by overhead transmission lines or underground/submarine cables, between
asynchronously interconnecting ac systems, etc [8]-[9] . For example, the VSC-HVDC system enables fast control
of active and reactive power independently of each other .[8],[10-11]

The next-generation power system is emerging as a more interconnected infrastructure compared to a

traditional grid[12-13] . This transition is mainly enabled by Voltage-Source Converter (VSC) technology and
characterized by increased deployment of High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) connections and multi terminal
HVdc grids. [12],[14]

HIGH Voltage Direct Current based on Voltage Source Converters (HVDC-VSC) is technology that recent is
a being developed by companies as ABB and Siemens. [15-17]

For example, DC grid can be as an interconnection between two electric power systems with different
frequencies, more reliable and efficient especially in long transmission distance and a more flexible control
strategy etc. [1], [18]

The transmission and distribution of electric energy are carried out in the form of alternating current (AC),
mainly due to the simplicity of the implementation of electricity generation systems in CA. HVAC systems show
the limitations of current losses and consequently are not recommended for transmission of energy over long
distances[41]. High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission has emerged as the only possible solution to
address the various problems encountered in the CA. [40] The transmission of high voltage in direct current
(HVDC) is very important in energy transmission. Recent studies indicate that HVDC systems are very reliable.
The HVDC transmission offers a powerful alternative to increase the stability of a power system as well as to
improve operational flexibility and reduction of system loss.

A better identification of the parameters of the transformers used in the HVDC systems allow a good
modeling of such a system. At high voltage and power levels in utility-scale applications, transformers are needed
to step-down grid voltages for integrating renewables and motors. For combating climate change, it is highly
desirable to utilize more renewable energy sources in the power grid. [19].

The transformer is an alternating current (AC) electromagnetic device, which transfers the energy from
one (primary) circuit to another (secondary), with the same frequency. Generally, the voltage and currents currents
on each side of the transformer are different, ie, this equipment also has as functions to isolate circuits and transfer
energy. The operation of the transformer is based on the Faraday and Lenz laws of magnetic induction. The
transformers can be classified according to the number of phases. The most well-known are three-phase and single-
phase, due to their great use in transmission, distribution and power systems [42]. Three-phase transformers are
indispensable equipment for the operation of an electrical system.

In this work, two three-phase transformers were used in the HVDC system; respectively, at the input of
the 12-pulse rectifier, and at the output of the 12-pulse inverter. The purpose of this work is to model the three-
phase transformers: this means to determine the parameters of the transformers through the short-circuit and open-
circuit tests.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Determination of the parameters in the transformers used in the 12-pulse HVDC system

The development of domestic HVDC transmission system needs the HVDC transformer to perform better.
WITH the development of domestic HVDC transmission system, the demand for HVDC converter transformer is
increasing, and people show much more focus on its safety and reliability. [20]

To determine the parameters of the equivalent circuit, an open circuit and three short tests are performed. In the
open circuit test, the secondary and tertiary of the transformers are left open, and the values in the primary of the
transformers are measured.
Figure 1 presents, respectively, the main components of the HVDC system and of the didactic workbench used in
this work..

Fig 1: Main components of the 12-pulse HVDC system. [44]

Figure 2 shows the synoptic, top view of the didactic workbench

Fig 2: didactic synoptic illustration, top view of the Workbench. [44]

The supply voltage of the three-phase generator, used in this work is 220 V, with an operating frequency
of 60 Hz. As for the HVDC system smoothing reactor, it has an inductance of 200 mH, a current of 20 A and an
insulation of 0.6 kV, and, finally, a line resistance of 10 Ω.

The custom three-phase 3-winding transformer tested on the side of the rectifier has an impedance
calculated by tests of approximately 12% and a power of 6 kVA, a frequency of 60 Hz, a supply voltage
of 220 V and a insulation of 0.6 kV.

A three-phase transformer, made of three windings, was also used on 60Hz, 220V, 6 kVA, impedance calculated
by tests of approximately 5% and a 1.2 kV insulation on the inverter side of the HVDC system.

The high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission system has the highly controllable characteristic, and the
efficient operation of the system depends on the proper application of the controllable characteristic, which can
promise the expected performance that power system has. In general, the HVDC transmission system adopts kinds
of hierachical control mode, which can supply efficient & stable operation, and the flexibility that power controller
has [21-26]. Hybrid ac/dc transmission can increase the power transfer capability of long ac transmission lines.
[27]

HVDC based transmission system is a well-accepted solution to exchange cross-border energy, Interconnect
offshore wind farms to the AC networks and to assist the constitution of the electricity market. [28-29]
 Figure shows the single-line diagram of the 12-pulse HVDC system.

Fig 3: Line diagram of the HVDC study system

The converter transformer is a ultra high voltage Direct Current (UHVDC) transmission system safe
critical component for operation, and in which, The bushing and barrier system are core but weak-link parts due
to its complicated insulation structure and combined AC/DC voltage and polarity reversal operation. Bushing and
barrier system are the critical components in ultra high voltage (UHV) converter transformer for safe operation.
Electric field distributions within bushing and barrier system are complicated in UHV converter transformer under
combined AC and DC voltages, which, as a consequence, results in some technical difficulties in insulation
structure design and manufacture. [30]

In the universal 12-pulse HVDC transmission system, the traditional converter transformer usually adopts
Y/Y/ Δ wiring . scheme, which can supply the 12-phase source for the 12- pulse dc system[21-22]. It was
mentioned that the zig-zag transformer could be saturated if the three-phase transmission line resistances are
unbalanced [27], [31]

Table 1 below shows the plate data of the three rectifier winding transformers.
Table 1

Rectifier transformer board data

Rated primary power (star connection) 6 [kVA]

Rated voltage of the primary 220 [V]

rated voltage of secondary (star connection) and tertiary (delta connection) 254 [V]

Rated primary current 15,79 [A]

rated power of the secondary and tertiary 3 [kVA]

Rated currents of the secondary and tertiary 6,82 [A]

Table 2, below, shows the plate data of the three-winding inverter transformers.
Table 2

Inverter transformers board data.

Rated primary power (star connection) 6 [kVA]

Rated voltage of the primary 220 [V]

rated voltage of secondary (star connection) and tertiary (delta connection) 220 [V]

Rated primary current 15,79 [A]

rated power of the secondary and tertiary 3 [kVA]

Secondary and tertiary nominal currents 7,90 [A]

2.2. Equations

2.2.1 Open circuit test

The parameters of the magnetizing branch were obtained in the tests carried out through the open circuit test
(energized primary, secondary and tertiary open).

Figure 4 shows the representation of the three winding transformer used in this work.

Fig 4: Representation of three-wire transformer

The open circuit operation is the condition in which the primary is connected to the network, under nominal
voltage and frequency, the secondary being open circuit. Applying the rated voltage to the primary of the
transformer.
It measured:

 the tension in the primary

 open circuit current
 power dissipated in open circuit

Let 𝑷𝑯𝒇 be the losses in the transformer core of the rectifier

PHf = w2 + w1 (1)

w1 e w2 : the powers dissipated in open circuit

Let Q be the reactive power in the rectifier primary

𝑄 = √3 ( 𝑉𝑎𝑟2 + 𝑉𝑎𝑟1 ) (2)

Var1 e Var2 the reactive power in open circuit

There are several ways to calculate the resistance, reactance, and impedance at the transformer core of the rectifier.
The calculation methods vary according to resistance and reactance in the core when they are in series or in parallel.

 Series resistance and reactance

In electrical systems studies, it is convenient to use the unit representation (PU) of the quantities involved.
Thus;
𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 (3)
𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒 𝑃𝑈 =
𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑢𝑒
Where the current values; and, base are expressed in the same unit

The quantities considered as bases in the permanent regime are apparent power and voltage, presenting
arbitrary values. The apparent power is valid for the whole system,

Let I0 be the open circuit current, IN the rated current and I1, I2, I3 the open circuit currents of each phase
of the primary rectifier.
𝐼1 + 𝐼2 + 𝐼3 (4)
𝐼𝑜 =
3
𝐼𝑜 (5)
𝐼𝑜 % = 𝑋 100
𝐼𝑁

I0 %: the open circuit percent current

IN: the rated current in the rectifier transformer

6000
𝐼𝑁 =
√3𝑋220
IN = 15,75[A]

The magnetization parameters can be obtained through the open-circuit test, usually carried out by
applying the nominal voltage to the Low Voltage terminals, with the High Voltage terminals open.

Let rms, xms e zms, respectively, be the resistance, reactance and impedance at the rectifier transformer
core. (Parameters series)
PHf (6)
rms =
3∗I2
o

Q (7)
Xms =
3∗I2
o

2 + r2
Zms = √Xms ms
(8)

 Calculation with voltage (another alternative)

The equations below show another way to calculate the impedance in the transformer core of the rectifier,
using the value of the voltage in phase A of the primary, transformer, rectifier, open circuit. This calculation is
done using the equations of the numerical sequence of (9).

Let V1 be the voltage in phase A, in the rectifier transformer primary.

𝑉1 (9)
𝑍𝑚𝑠 =
𝐼𝑜
  Resistance and reactance in parallel (parallel parameters)

It becomes essential when the power to be supplied exceeds that of the available transformer. Connecting
units in parallel obviously increases reliability.

Let 𝜌𝑜 be the angle of the current in the core that can be calculated by equation (10) below:
𝑄𝑜 (10)
𝜌𝑜 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( )
𝑃𝐻𝑓

The current (Iw) of the magnetizing core branch, given by equation (11), which is responsible for losses
due to hysteresis and Foucault (core loss)

𝐼𝑤 = 𝐼𝑜 cos𝜌𝑜 (11)

The current (Idw) of the magnetizing core branch responsible for producing magnetic flux, which is
obtained using equation (12).

𝐼𝑑𝑤 = 𝐼𝑜 sen𝜌𝑜 (12)

 Calculation with power

Knowing the losses in the core, the currents of the magnetizing branches of the core, the resistance (rmp),
the reactance (Xmp) and the impedance (Zmp) in the transformer core of the rectifier, can be calculated by equations
(13) à (15):
𝑃𝐻𝑓 (13)
𝑟𝑚𝑝 = 2
3𝑋𝐼𝑤

𝑄 (14)
𝑋𝑚𝑝 = 2
3𝑋𝐼𝑑𝑤

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑍𝑚𝑝 𝑟𝑚𝑝 . 𝑗𝑋𝑚𝑝 (15)
=
𝑟𝑚𝑝 +𝑗𝑋𝑚𝑝

2.2.2 Short circuit test

Through the short-circuit test, the other parameters can be obtained. In the short circuit , the following tests were
performed respectively:

 The short circuit tests are similar. A voltage was applied to the winding "1", the winding "2" was shorted
and the winding "3", open circuit, the values of the transformers in the primary were measured.
 The procedure was repeated leaving the winding "2" open and, shortly, the winding "3". The values of
the primary were measured.
 Finally, leaving winding "1" open, a voltage was applied at "2", with "3" shorted, and the values in the
secondary were measured.
In Figure 5, the wiring diagram for the short-circuit test referenced, where H1, H2, H3, the terminals of the primary
and X1, X2, X3 are shown, the terminals of the secondary, shorted.
 Fig 5: Electrical diagram of instrument connections for short-circuit test of transformer-connection aron [40].

In this case, with the terminals on one side shorted (usually the low voltage ones), a reduced voltage is applied to
the terminals on the other side so as to drive nominal currents in the windings. Typically, this voltage varies from
2 to 4% for transformers, whose nominal output is in the order of 2.4 kV and 5 to 15% when the voltage is in the
order of 275 kV.

 Rectifier Side

Being the nominal current of the transformer 15 A, the short-circuit tests were carried out with a current lower
than the rated transformer. Thus, to find the losses in the windings of the short-circuited transformers, it was
necessary to have a correction factor K to correct the nominal current. This is given by equation (16) below.
𝐼𝑁 (16)
𝐾=
𝐼𝑐𝑐𝑚𝑜𝑦

Let Iccmoy be the mean value of the short-circuit currents obtained.

∑ 𝐼𝑐𝑐 (17)
𝐼𝑐𝑐𝑚𝑜𝑦 =
3

To find the correct value of the voltage in the short circuit test, it multiplied the voltage value measured
during the short circuit test by K; and to find the correct value of the power in the short circuit test, it multiplied
the voltage value measured during the short circuit test by K 2.

The following equations show the different methods of calculating the transformer parameters.

Calculation Zps (Test of short circuit of the transformer)- percentage parameters

Vcc (18)
Zps % = X 100
VN

Zps %: the percentage impedance in the primary - secondary windings of the transformer

VCC: the short-circuit voltage of the transformer

VN: the nominal phase-to-phase voltage of the transformer

𝑃𝑐𝑐 (19)
𝑟𝑝𝑠 % = ∗ 100
𝑆𝑁

rps %: the percentage resistance in the primary - secondary windings of the transformer

Pcc: the short-circuit power between in the primary - secondary windings of the transformer
 𝑤1 + 𝑤2 (20)
𝑟𝑝𝑠 % = 𝑋 100
𝑆𝑁

SN: the rated power of the transformer

w1 e w2: the active short-circuit powers obtained in the short-circuit test, the primary being fed; and, the secondary
being therefore shorted to the transformer side of the rectifier.

The two wattmeter method (Aron connection) of figure 1 was used for this measurement.

𝑋𝑃𝑆 % = √(𝑍𝑝𝑠 %)2 − (𝑟𝑝𝑠 %)2 (21)

𝑋𝑃𝑆 %: the percentage reactance in the primary - secondary windings of the transformer

 Temperature correction fator

According to the normalization, the resistance in the short circuit test must be corrected to 75 degrees Celcus.

Since the transformer was built at a certain temperature, and as the tests are being performed at a different
temperature from that of manufacture, it was necessary to use a correction factor K T to correct the measured
values. The equations below show the different correction factor calculation methods KT.
234,5 + 75 (22)
𝐾𝑇 = = 1,19729
234,5 + 24
In order to obtain the percentage parameters between primary - tertiary and tertiary - secondary, the equations of
the transformer primary - secondary short - circuit tests were used, which are analogous.

𝑍𝑆𝑇 : impedance between the secondary and tertiary.

𝑟𝑆𝑇 : resistance between the secondary and tertiary.

𝑋𝑆𝑇 : reactance between the secondary and the tertiary.

Since these percentage values

are referred to in the 3kVA power of the secondary and tertiary, to refer to them na potência de 6kVA, at the
primary 6kVA power, the percent values 𝑟𝑆𝑇 % and 𝑍𝑆𝑇 % are multiplied by 2.

Thus we have: rST−P % = rST % *2

ZST−P % = ZST % *2

Since the test was performed with currents below nominal, the K factor is used to correct the short-circuit
voltage and the K2 factor is used to correct the losses of wattmeters 1 and 2 (W 1 e W2).

The three-winding transformer connections on both the rectifier side and the inverter side are respectively:
primary (star), secondary (star), and tertiary (delta), respectively. remembering that the primaries are connected
to the grid and the secondary and tertiary to the converters connected in series, on both sides, respectively, side
of the rectifier and side of the inverter.

The following equations show the different methods of calculating the switching and tripping angles of the
converter units. For the calculation of the angles (alpha), the commutation was negligible because the value in
practice is very low.
Let CI and CII be the two six-pulse converters in series of the rectifier and CIII and CIV the six-pulse converter
units in series of the inverter.
Let α be the firing angle, VDC is the DC voltage and Eff is the phase-to-phase power supply voltage of each
converter.
 Rectifier:
 CI
𝑉𝐷𝐶1 (23)
𝛼𝐼 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 ( )
1,35 𝑋𝐸𝑓𝑓1
 CII
𝑉𝐷𝐶2 (24)
𝛼𝐼𝐼 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 ( )
1,35 𝑋𝐸𝑓𝑓2

Inverter:
 CIII
𝑉𝐷𝐶3 (25)
𝛼𝐼𝐼𝐼 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 ( )
1,35 𝑋 𝐸𝑓𝑓3
 CIV
𝑉𝐷𝐶4 (26)
𝛼𝐼𝑉 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 ( )
1,35 𝑋 𝐸𝑓𝑓4

According to Ferreira 2016 [43], the expression of the switching angle (μ) is determined in the following
ways:
Rectifier:
 CI
𝐼𝑑 (27)
µ𝐼 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 [𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛼𝐼 − 2 ] − 𝛼𝐼 
𝐼𝑆
√3𝐸𝑚 (28)
𝐼𝑆𝐼 =
2𝑋𝑃𝑆
 CII
𝐼𝑑 (29)
µ𝐼𝐼 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 [𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛼𝐼𝐼 − 2 ] − 𝛼𝐼𝐼
𝐼𝑆𝐼𝐼
√3𝐸𝑚 (30)
𝐼𝑆𝐼𝐼 =
2𝑋𝑃𝑇
Inverter:
 CIII
𝐼𝑑 (31)
µ𝐼𝐼𝐼 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 [𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛼𝐼𝐼𝐼 − 2 ] − 𝛼𝐼𝐼𝐼
𝐼𝑆𝐼𝐼𝐼
√3𝐸𝑚 (32)
𝐼𝑆𝐼𝐼𝐼 =
2𝑋𝑃𝑇
 CIV
𝐼𝑑 (33)
µ𝐼𝑉 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 [𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝛼𝐼𝑉 − 2 ] − 𝛼𝐼𝑉
𝐼𝑆𝐼𝑉
√3𝐸𝑚 (34)
𝐼𝑆𝐼𝑉 =
2𝑋𝑃𝑆

Id: DC current

Em: Peak value of the supply voltage phase-neutral side of the inverter

XPS: reactance between the primary and the secondary transformer

XPT: reactance between primary and tertiary transformer

Being P: Primary Winding

S: Second winding

T: Tertiary winding
  Calculation Methods of the impedances of the transformers

The following equations show the methods for calculating the impedances of the transformers.
Let 𝑍𝑃 , 𝑍𝑆 e 𝑍𝑇 , respectively, be the impedances of the primary, secondary and tertiary of the transformer.

𝑍𝑃𝑆 = 𝑍𝑃 + 𝑍𝑆 (35)

𝑍𝑃𝑇 = 𝑍𝑃 + 𝑍𝑇 (36)

𝑍𝑆𝑇 = 𝑍𝑆 + 𝑍𝑇 (37)

of (35),(36) and (37), we have

𝑍𝑆𝑇 − 𝑍𝑃𝑆 + 𝑍𝑃𝑇 (38)

𝑍𝑇 =
2
𝑍𝑃𝑆 − 𝑍𝑃𝑇 + 𝑍𝑆𝑇 (39)
𝑍𝑆 =
2
𝑍𝑃𝑆 𝑍𝑃𝑇 𝑍 (40)
𝑍𝑃 = + - 𝑆𝑇
2 2 2

 Calculation Methods of the resistance and reactance of transformers

The following equations show the methods of calculating the resistances and reactances in the transformer.
Let 𝑅𝑃 , 𝑅𝑆 e 𝑅𝑇 , respectively be , the resistances of the primary, secondary and tertiary of the transformer..
Let 𝑋𝑃 , 𝑋𝑆 e 𝑋𝑇, respectively be the primary, secondary and tertiary reactances of the transformer.
𝑅𝑃𝑆 + 𝑅𝑆𝑇 − 𝑅𝑃𝑇 (41)
𝑅𝑆 =
2
𝑅𝑆𝑇 + 𝑅𝑃𝑇 − 𝑅𝑃𝑆 (42)
𝑅𝑇 =
2
𝑅𝑃𝑆 + 𝑅𝑃𝑇 − 𝑅𝑆𝑇 (43)
𝑅𝑃 =
2
𝑋𝑃𝑆 + 𝑋𝑆𝑇 − 𝑋𝑃𝑇 (44)
𝑋𝑆 =
2
𝑋𝑃𝑆 + 𝑋𝑃𝑇 − 𝑋𝑆𝑇 (45)
𝑋𝑃 =
2
𝑋𝑆𝑇 + 𝑋𝑃𝑇 − 𝑋𝑃𝑆 (46)
𝑋𝑇 =
2
Figure 6 shows the impedance diagram of the three winding transformer used in the rectifier.

Fig 6: impedance diagram of the three windings transformer of rectifier and inverter
 3. Results

Table 3 below shows the values measured of the voltages and the active powers for short-circuit tests,in the
rectifier transformer.
Table 3

Active power in watts (w) of the rectifier transformer..

Primary and secondary Primary and tertiary Secondary and tertiary

𝑤1= - 119,41 W 𝑤1= - 128,34 W 𝑤1= -21,86 W

𝑤2= 343,30 W 𝑤2= 343,30 W 𝑤2= 109,32 W

𝑉𝑐𝑐 = 28,16 V 𝑉𝑐𝑐 = 28,31 V 𝑉𝑐𝑐 = 18,35 V

Table 4

Impedances, resistances and reactances of the rectifier transformer.

Primary and secondary Primary and tertiary Secondary and tertiary

𝑟𝑃𝑆−75%= 4,47% 𝑟𝑃𝑇−75 % = 4,30% 𝑟𝑆𝑇−75 % = 6,98 %

𝑋𝑃𝑆 % = 12,25 % 𝑋𝑃𝑇 % = 12,36% 𝑋𝑆𝑇 % = 13,22%

𝑍𝑃𝑆−75 % = 13,04% 𝑍𝑃𝑇−75 = 13,08% 𝑍𝑆𝑇−75 = 14,95%

Table 5 below shows the values measured of the voltages and the active powers for short circuit tests made with
reduced current in the inverter transformer
Table 5

Active power in watts (w) of the inverter transformer.

Primary and secondary Primary and tertiary Secondary and tertiary

𝑤1= 101,5 W 𝑤1= 101,5 W 𝑤1= 35,53 W

𝑤2= 142,1 W 𝑤2= 182,7 W 𝑤2= 35,53 W

𝑉𝑐𝑐 = 9,97 V 𝑉𝑐𝑐 = 11,38 V 𝑉𝑐𝑐 = 5,46 V

Table 6

Impedances, resistances and reactances of the inverter transformer.

Primary and secondary Primary and tertiary Secondary and tertiary

𝑟𝑃𝑆−75% = 4,86% 𝑟𝑃𝑇−75 % = 5,67 % 𝑟𝑆𝑇−75 % =5,67 %

𝑋𝑃𝑆 % = 2,02 % 𝑋𝑃𝑇 % = 2,08% 𝑋𝑆𝑇 % =1,47%

𝑍𝑃𝑆−75 % = 5,26% 𝑍𝑃𝑇−75 % = 6,04% 𝑍𝑆𝑇−75 % = 5,86%

Tables 7 and 8 present the parameters calculated of each winding of the transformers, the rectifier and the
inverter, respectively.
Table 7
Parameters of each transformer winding of the rectifier
primary secondary Tertiary
𝑍𝑃 = 0,06 [pu] 𝑍𝑆 = 0,08 [pu] 𝑍𝑇 = 0,08 [pu]
𝑅𝑃 = 8,90 ∗ 10−3 [pu] 𝑅𝑆 = 0,04[pu] 𝑅𝑇 = 0,03[pu]
𝑋𝑃 = 0,06 [pu] 𝑋𝑆 = 0,07 [pu] 𝑋𝑇 = 0,07[pu]

Table 8
Parameters of each transformer winding of the inverter
primary secondary Tertiary
𝑍𝑃 = 0,03 [pu] 𝑍𝑆 = 0,03 [pu] 𝑍𝑇 = 0,03 [pu]
𝑅𝑃 = 0,02 [pu] 𝑅𝑆 = 0,02[pu] 𝑅𝑇 = 0,03[pu]
𝑋𝑃 = 0,01[pu] 𝑋𝑆 = 0,01 [pu] 𝑋𝑇 = 0,01 [pu]

Tables 9 to 14 below show the parameters calculated of the transformers respectively of the rectifier and the
inverter in open circuit.

Table 9 shows Active, reactive powers and current in open circuit transformers
Table 9
Active, reactive powers and current in open circuit transformers
rectifier inverter
𝑃𝐻𝑓= 170 (w) 𝑃𝐻𝑓=35(𝑤)
𝑄 = 711,87 Var 𝑄= 510,96 𝑉𝑎𝑟
𝐼𝑜 = 1,98 [A] 𝐼𝑜 = 1,23 (A)
𝐼𝑜 % = 12,59 % 𝐼𝑜% = 7,83%
𝐼𝑜 = 0,1259 [pu] 𝐼𝑜 =0,08 [pu]

Table 10 presents the parameters of the transformers using the resistances and reactances in series method

Table 10
parameters of the transformers using the resistances and reactances in series method
rectifier Inverter
𝑟𝑚𝑠 = 14,41(Ω) 𝑟𝑚𝑠 = 7,67 (Ω)
𝑋𝑚𝑠 = 60,34(Ω) 𝑋𝑚𝑠 = 112,03 (Ω)
𝑍𝑚𝑠=62,04(Ω) 𝑍𝑚𝑠=112,29(Ω)

Table 11
Transformer Parameters Using the Voltage Method
Rectifier Inverter
𝑍𝑚𝑠= 64,04 (Ω) 𝑍𝑚𝑠= 103 (Ω)

Table 12 below shows the values of the current angles in the cores of the transformers of rectifier and inverter
Table 12
the angle of the current in the core of the transformers
Rectifier Inverter
𝜌𝑜=76,57° 𝜌𝑜=86,08°

Table 13 shows the values respectively of the current responsible for the losses by hysteresis and Focault (Iw)
(losses in the core) and the current responsible for the production of the magnetic flux (Idw) in the magnetizing
branches of the rectifier and inverter transformers.
 Table 13
the values of the hysteresis and magnetic flux currents
Rectifier Inverter
𝐼𝑤=0,46(𝐴) 𝐼𝑤=0,08(𝐴)
𝐼𝑑𝑤=1,93(𝐴) 𝐼𝑑𝑤=1,23(𝐴)

Table 14 shows the parameters of the transformers using the parallel resistors and reactances method
Table 14
parameters of the transformers using the parallel resistors and reactances method
Rectifier Inverter
rmp = 267,8 (Ω) rmp= 1641,69 (Ω)
𝑋mp= 63,77(Ω) 𝑋mp = 112,47(Ω)
𝑍mp = 62,04 (Ω) 𝑍mp = 112,21 (Ω)

In Table 15 we find the parameters calculated of the 12-pulse HVDC System, for DC link current of 5 [A].

Table 15
12-Pulse HVDC System Parameters
Rectifier Inverter
αI =64,72° αIII = 109°
αII = 70,2° αIV = 112,249 °
IS1 = 137,68 IS3 = 941,06

IS2 = 137,68 IS4 = 941,06

Xps = 1,32 Ω Xps= 0,1654 Ω
XPT = 1,32 Ω XPT = 0,1654 Ω
µ1= 2,28° µ3= 0,32°
µ2= 2,20° µ4= 0,33°

Let VAB, VBC and VCA respectively be the voltages between the secondary and tertiary phases of the converter
feed transformers, which are under load and therefore with voltages lower than those of the blank data, and DC
link current of 5 [A]. The secondary and tertiary voltages of the inverter transformers practically had negligible
changes with respect to the unloaded voltages due to the lower impedance of short-circuit of these.

Tables 16 and 17 show values measured obtained for the voltages between the transformer phases of the rectifier
and the inverter.

Table 16
Voltages between rectifier transformer phases
Primary Secondary Tertiary
VAB = 220,4 V VAB = 248,2 V VAB = 248,6 V

VBC = 220 V VBC = 246,9 V VBC = 246,1 V

VCA = 220,4 V VCA = 248,4 V VCA = 246,5 V

Table 17
Voltages between the transformer phases of the inverter
Primary Secondary Tertiary
VAB = 221 V VAB = 221,4 V VAB = 221,6 V

VBC = 220 V VBC = 220,7 V VBC = 221,2 V

VCA = 221 V VCA = 221,1 V VCA = 221,9 V

 The modeling method of the three-phase transformers used in this work allowed to
validate the waveforms of the experimental and simulation results obtained in [44].
Figure 7 illustrates the phase shift between neutral phase voltage waveforms, (Vs) (in yellow) of the
secondary (star) and of the secondary (Is) current (green) on the side of the rectifier bridge. Figure 8 shows the
neutral phase voltage on the rectifier (star) transformer primary (Vp) (yellow) and the line current (Ip) (green) on
the rectifier side.

Fig 7: Vs and Is of the rectifier Fig8: VP and IP rectifier

The scale of the vertical axis of the voltage is 50V / division and the scale of the horizontal axis (time) is
5ms / division. The scale of the vertical axis of the current is 5A / division. Figures 9 and 10 show, respectively,
the voltages between the anode and the cathode (Vak), of the thyristors of the converter units (quite approximately
equal, in qualitative and quantitative aspects, in all thyristors of 1 to 6 of each converter bridge, only these Vak
voltages respectively of 60 ° for each thyristor).

Fig 9: Vak of the rectifier Fig 10: Vak of the Inverter

In the waveforms of Figures 12 and 13, the scale of the vertical axis is voltage of 100V / division and horizontal
scale (time) axis is 5 ms / division.
Figures 11 and 12 present the qualitative aspects of the continuous voltage waveforms (VDC) respectively at
the outputs of the two six-pulse (green and yellow) converter bridges and the series voltages of the two rectifier-
side bridges and of the inverter respectively (12 pulses) (purple).

Figura 11: VDC of

the inverter

Fig11: VDC of the Rectifier Fig12: VDC of the inverter

The yellow and green waveforms are those of the 6-pulse converter units and the violet waveforms are those of the
12-pulse converter units, the rectifier and inverter sides, respectively. Figure 13 shows the line current (IDC)
(qualitative aspect) of the 12-pulse HVDC System.

Fig 13: IDC of the HVDC system

3.1 Simulation Results

Figures 14 and 15 respectively show the secondary and tertiary waveforms (within delta-Ib2a2) of the rectifier
transformer, referred to the primary (qualitative aspect) waveforms.

Fig 14: secondary current of the rectifier transformer Fig 15: current in the tertiary of the rectifier transformer

The line current from the primary side (viewed by the network) is obtained as the sum of these currents shown
in Figures 14 (secondary in star) and 15 (tertiary in delta), referred to the primary.
Figure 16 shows the waveforms of the currents in the rectifier transformer primary and Figure 17 shows the
waveform of the current in the secondary of the inverter transformer (qualitative aspects), considering the perfectly
smoothed current, that is, inductor of smoothing of the DC side current, considered infinite. Figures 18 and 19
respectively show the waveforms of the currents in the tertiary (within the delta), referred to the primary and the
primary (IP) of the inverter transformer (qualitative aspects).

Fig 16: Currents on the rectifier transformer primary Fig 17: Current in the secondary
 Fig 18: Correntes no terciário do transformador do retificador Fig 19: IP do transformador do inversor

The voltage waveforms between the anode and the cathode (Vak) and the direct voltage (VDC) at the output of the rectifier (qualitative
aspect) are shown in Figures 20 and 21 respectively.

Fig 20: Vak of thyristor 1 of the bridge CI rectifier Fig 21: VDC of rectifier

The voltage waveforms between the anode and the cathode (Vak) and the direct current (VDC) on the DC side
of the inverter (qualitative aspect) are respectively shown in Figures 22 and 23 below.

Fig 22: Vak of the thyristor 1 of the inverter CIII bridge Fig 23: VDC of Inverter
 4. CONCLUSION

This work shows in a practical way the modeling of a three winding transformer as well as the waveforms
of a 12-pulse HVDC system. It allows the realization of a comparative study between the experimental and
simulation results of a 12-pulse HVDC system using a three-winding transformer.

Finally, it is emphasized that the results of simulations and experimental, of waveforms, were
comparatively approximate, considering the qualitative aspects.

The implementation of the HVDC system in the laboratory was carried out with DC link DC (DC)
continuous current of 5 A. The DC voltage obtained at the output of the 12-pulse rectifier is 256 V and the DC
voltage at the inverter input of 12 pulses, is 202 V (direct current side). The frequency of the system studied is 60
Hz and the system's supply voltage is 220V. In order to determine the commutation and tripping angles of the
command circuit of the inverters it is important to know the parameters of the transformers used in the rectifier
and the inverter.

Future work related to this will address a study in variable rotation of the 12-pulse HVDC System and to
make the modeling of the transformers using the vector method using a large transmission line in the system. The
magnetizing currents of the transformers in this work were neglected, which will not occur when the Matlab
program is used to do so.

The thyristors of the bridges of this didactic bench, whose electrical measurements are obtained in a very
easy, friendly and simple way, are manufactured by International Rectifier, model 40TPS12 (40 A, 1200V).

References
[1] C. Zhuo, X. Zhang, X. Zhang, X. Yang , ‘’Analysis, Modeling and Simulation of Multi-terminal HVDC Transmission System with Short-
circuit Controllable Fault Current Limiter,’’ IEEE International Power Electronics and Application Conference and Exposition (PEAC), 2018.

[2] Sheng Liu, Zheng Xu, “Modeling, Analysis and Control of AC/DC Power Systems Containing VSC-HVDCs”, doctor graduation thesis,
June 2016.

[3] S. Debnath and M. Chinthavali, "Control of MMC-HVDC in low-inertia weak grids," 2017 IEEE 12th International Conference on Power
Electronics and Drive Systems (PEDS), Honolulu, HI, 2017, pp. 435-441.. .

[4] R. Kumar, T. Leibfried ‘’Analytical Modelling of HVDC Transmission System Converter using Matlab/Simulink,’’ IEEE Systems
Technical Conference on Industrial and Commercial Power, 2005.

[5] M. Blechschmidt, C. Hahn, M. Luther, ‘’a comprehensive approach for analytical modeling of line commutated converter based
multiterminal HVDC Systems,’’ IEEE 52nd International Universities Power Engineering Conference (UPEC), 2017.

[6] 50 Hz, Ampion, TenneT and TransnetBW.German grid development plan 2025(German title : Netzentwicklungsplan strom 2025), Berlin
: German Transmission System Operators, 2015.

[7] R. Leelaruji, J. Setreus, G. Olguin, L. Bertling, ‘’Availability Assessment of the HVDC Converter Transformer System,’’ IEEE
Proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Probablistic Methods Applied to Power Systems, 2008.

[8] C. Guo, C. Zhao, ‘’A New Technology for HVDC Start-up and Operation Using VSC-HVDC System’’ IEEE Power & Energy Society
General Meeting, 2009

[9] Andersen, B., Barker, C., “A new era in HVDC,” IEE Review, vol.46, no.2, pp.33-39, March, 2000.

[10 ] L. Weimers, “New markets need new technology,” in Proc. Int. Conf. Power System Technology, Perth, Australia, vol. 2, pp.873–877,
Dec, 2000.

[11] G. Reed, R. Pape, and M. Takeda, “Advantages of voltage sourced converter (VSC) based design concepts for FACTS and HVDC-link
applications,” in Proc. IEEE Power Eng. Soc. General Meeting, Toronto, Canada, vol. 3, pp. 1816–1821, Jul. 2003.

[12] M. Stevic, A. Monti, ‘’ Wave Transformation Based Interface Algorithm for Distributed Simulation of HVDC systems,’’ IECON 2018 -
44th Annual Conference of the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society, 2018.

[13] S. Chatzivasileiadis, D. Ernst, and G. Andersson, “Chapter 14 – global power grids for harnessing world renewable energy,” in Renewable
Energy Integration, second edition ed., L. E. Jones, Ed. Boston: Academic Press, 2017, pp. 161 – 174.
[14] E. Bompard, G. Fulli, M. Ardelean and M. Masera, "It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's a...Supergrid!: Evolution, Opportunities, and Critical Issues
for Pan-European Transmission," in IEEE Power and Energy Magazine, vol. 12, no. 2, pp. 40-50, March-April 2014.

[15] J. M. Mauricio, A. G. Exposito, ‘’Modeling and Control of an HVDC-VSC Transmission System,’’ IEEE/PES Transmission &
Distribution Conference and Exposition: Latin America, 2006.

[16] L. Weimers, "Hvdc light: A new technology for a better environment," Power Engineering Review, IEEE, vol. 18, no. 8, pp. 19-20, Aug
1998.

[17] J. Graham, G. Biledt, and J. Johansson, "Power system interconnections using hvdc links," IX SYMPOSIUM OF SPECIALISTS IN
ELECTRIC OPERATIONAL AND EXPANSION PLANNING, May 2004.

[18] Yuan Xufeng, Prof. Cheng Shijie, Prof. Wen Jinyu, “Resharch on Theory of Novel Hybrid Multerminal HVDC System and Some Key
Problems”, doctor graduation thesis, May, 2007.

[19] A. Kumar Sahoo, N. Mohan, ‘’ Modulation and Control of a Single-Stage HVDC/AC Solid State Transformer using Modular Multilevel
Converter,’’ IEEE Applied Power Electronics Conference and Exposition (APEC), 2007 ).

[20] Y. Wang, W. Zhang , J. Wang, D. Xia, P. Zhang, J. Li, ‘’Stray Loss Calculation of HVDC Converter Transformer,’’ IEEE Transactions
on Applied Superconductivity, VOL. 22, NO. 3, JUNE 2012.

[21] Y. Li , L. Luo, K. Nakamura, C. Rehtanz, J. Zhang, J. Xu, F. Liu, ‘’Transient Response Characteristics of New HVDC Transmission
System Based on New Converter Transformer,’’ Third International Conference on Electric Utility Deregulation and Restructuring and Power
Technologies, 2008.

[22] Sood, Vijay K, HVDC and FACTS Controllers: Application of Static Converters in Power Systems, Boston: Kluwer Academic
Publishers, 2004

[23] Tao Yu, Ka Wingchan, and Zhen Ren, “Damping analysis of primary and auxiliary control of HVDC systems”, IEEE Power Engineering
Society General Meeting, 2006, pp.18-22.

[24] Zhang X-P., Yao L., Chong B., Sasse C., and Godifrey K.R., “FACTS and HVDC technologies for the development of future power
systems”, 2005 IEEE International Conference on Future Power Systems, pp:16- 18..

[25] Wu Hongbin, Ding Ming, and Li Shenghu, “Statistical research on the effects of HVDC models and controls on transient stability of
power system”, Proceedings of the CSEE, vol.23, pp.32-37, Oct. 2003. (in chinese)

[26] Ma Yulong, Xiao Xiangning, and Jiang Xu. “Analysis of the impact of AC system single-phase earth on HVDC”, Proceedings of the
CSEE, vol.26, pp.144-149, Nov. 2006. (in chinese).

[27] S. Zhang, Y. Li, B. Liu, X. Shi, L. M. Tolbert, F. Wang, ‘’HVDC Converter Transformer Saturation in Hybrid AC/DC System Caused
by Coupled Transmission Lines,’’ IEEE Applied Power Electronics Conference and Exposition (APEC), 2017.

[28] S. S. H. Yazdi, K. Rouzbehi, J. I. Candela, J. Milimonfared, P. Rodriguez, ‘’Flexible HVDC Transmission Systems Small Signal
Modelling: A case study on CIGRE Test MT-HVDC Grid,’’ IECON 2017 - 43rd Annual Conference of the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society,
2017

[29] P. RODRIGUEZ and K. ROUZBEHI, "Multi-terminal DC grids: challenges and prospects," Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean
Energy, vol. 5, pp. 515-523, July 01 2017.

[30] S. Hou, Y. Tian, M. Fu, X. Z. Ge, ‘’ Influential Factor Analysis and Computation on Electric Field of Converter Transformer Barrier,’’
IEEE 11th International Conference on the Properties and Applications of Dielectric Materials (ICPADM), 2015.

[31] B. Liu, X. Shi, F. Wang, and Y. Li, “A line impedance conditioner to improve zigzag transformer based hybrid ac/dc transmission under
unbalanced line impedance conditions,” in Proc. 2014 IEEE Energy Conversion Congress and Exposition (ECCE), pp. 736-743.

[32] F. Schettler, H. Huang and N. Christl, "HVDC transmission systems using voltage sourced converters design and applications," 2000
Power Engineering Society Summer Meeting (Cat. No.00CH37134), Seattle, WA, 2000, pp. 715-720 vol. 2.

[33] Kamran Sharifabadi; Lennart Harnefors; Hans-Peter Nee; Staffan Norrga; Remus Teodorescu, "Introduction to Modular Multilevel
Converters," in Design, Control and Application of Modular Multilevel Converters for HVDC Transmission Systems , 1, Wiley-IEEE Press,
2016, pp.416-.

[34] Xia Dao-zhi, SHEN Zan-xun. “Harmonic Analysis and Filter in HVDC System”. Beijing: Hydraulic and Electric Power Press, 1993.

[35] F. Wang, M. He, ‘’ Calculation of three-pulse harmonic voltages for HVDC transmission,’’ IEEE PES General Meeting, 2010.

[36] L. Luo, Y. Li, K. Nakamura, G. Krost, J. Li, J. Xu, F. Liu, ‘’ Harmonic characteristics of new HVDC transmission system based on new
converter transformer,’’ Third International Conference on Electric Utility Deregulation and Restructuring and Power Technologies, 2008.
[37] J. Alan C. Forrest, “Harmonic load losses in HVDC convertertransformers”, IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery, vol.6, No.1, Jan.1991,
pp.153-157.

[38] K. Eckholz, P. Heinzig, “HVDC-transformer-a technical challenge”, IEEE 2002 International Conference on Power System Technology,
vol.1, 13-17 Oct.2002, pp.547-551.

[39] M. Khatir, S. A Zidi, M. K Fellah, S Hadjeri, O Dahou, ‘’ HVDC Transmission Line Models for Steady-State and Transients Analysis in
SIMULINK Environment,’’ IECON 2006 - 32nd Annual Conference on IEEE Industrial Electronics, 2006.

[40] Adriana Aparecida dos Santos Izidoro. “Uma contribuição ao estudo dos conversores comutados a capacitores (CCC)”. 2005. 105 f. Tese
(Doutorado em Engenharia Elétrica) - Universidade Federal de Itajubá, 2005.

[41] Thi Thu Nga VU, Étude des phénomènes de charges d'espace dans des matériaux de câbles et câbles modèles destinés à des applications
au transport d'énergie en Haute Tension Continue (HVDC), Juillet 2014.

[42] BADIN, Alceu André. Retificadores Trifásicos com Fator de Potência Unitário baseados nos Transformadores Trifásicos/Bifásicos. 2009.
208 f. Tese (Doutorado em Engenharia Elétrica) – Instituto de Eletrônica de Potência, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis,
2009.

[43] Mauro José Renó Ferreira, Estudo do Conversor Comutado a Capacitor de Doze Pulsos Aplicado a um Sistema HVDC, setembro de
2016.

[44] Olatoundji G. Gnonhoue , A. J. J. Rezek, C.E. G. Ogoulola, A. V. Braga, ‘’A didactic workbench in a thyristorised AC/DC 12 pulse
conversion system’’, IEEE Conferences, 2018 Simposio Brasileiro de Sistemas Eletricos (SBSE),2018.