PowerFactory 2022

P R O D U C T S P E C I F I C AT I O N
F2022

POWER SYSTEM SOLUTIONS

MADE IN GERMANY
BE A PART OF
THE ENERGY
SUPPLY OF
THE FUTURE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Base Package
Load Flow Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Network Model Management . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Short-Circuit Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 PowerFactory Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Sensitivites / Distribution Factors . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Network Diagrams and Graphic Features . . . . . . . 6

Basic MV/LV Network Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Results and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Power Equipment Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Data Converters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Network Representation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 General Software Information . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Advanced Functions
Contingency Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Reliability Analysis Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Quasi-Dynamic Simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Optimal Power Flow (OPF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Network Reduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Unit Commitment and Dispatch Optimisation . . . . 13

Protection Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 State Estimation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Arc-Flash Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) . . . . . . . . . . 13

Cable Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) . . . . . . . . . . 14

Power Quality and Harmonic Analysis . . . . . . . . 9 Motor Starting Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Connection Request Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Small Signal Stability (Eigenvalue Analysis) . . . . . 15

Transmission Network Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 System Parameter Identification . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Distribution Network Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Scripting and Automation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Outage Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Artificial Intelligence NEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Economic Analysis Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Probabilistic Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package
BASE PACKAGE
LOAD FLOW ANALYSIS
 Balanced and unbalanced load flow for coupled AC and DC grids
 Meshed DC supergrid load flow analysis
 State-of-the-art numerical solvers for fast and robust
­convergence from arbitrary starting-points
 Active/reactive power and voltage regulation options, such as
SVC, shunt and tap controllers
 Station- and network control features, including Q(U)-,
cosphi(P)-, Q(P)-, and droop characteristics
 Local- and remote control options
 Secondary and primary control, inertial response
 Distributed slack by load and generation, including ­interchange
schedules
 Consideration of active and reactive power limits, including
(voltage-dependent) generator capability curves
 Accurate modelling of induction machines
 Voltage dependent load models
 User-definable load flow controller models
 Simple load/generation scaling, as well as automated feeder
load scaling (balanced and unbalanced)
 Determination of “power at risk”
 Consideration of temperature dependency
SHORT-CIRCUIT ANALYSIS
 Support of IEC 60909 (including 2016 edition), IEEE 141 / IEEE
551 NEW / ANSI C37, VDE 0102/0103, G74 (including Issue 2)
and IEC 61363 norms and methods
 Calculation of short-circuit currents in DC grids according to IEC
61660 and ANSI / IEEE 946
 Complete superposition method, including dynamic voltage
­support of generators connected via power electronics
 Fast multiple fault analysis of any kind of fault including
­single-phase interruption, inter-circuit faults, broken conductor
event, fault sweep along lines, customisable short-circuit sweep
diagrams, etc.
SENSITIVITES / DISTRIBUTION FACTORS
 Comprehensive range of voltage and branch flow sensitivity
calculations
 Transformer and booster sensitivities (continuous and discrete)
 Standard distribution factors (PTDF, LODF, OTDF, PSDF and
TCDF)
 Single and multiple sensitivities
1 Requires Contingency Analysis licence
4
 Consideration of contingencies1
 Flexible reporting options
 Modal analysis for identifying strong and weak parts of the
network
BASIC MV/LV NETWORK ANALYSIS
 Voltage profile plots for single and muliple feeders
 Feeder analysis tools, including feeder load scaling for simple &
meshed feeders
 Automated schematic visualisation of feeder topology
 Radial feeder tools, including voltage and phase technology
change tools
 Backbone calculation determining the main connections
between meshed feeders
 LV network analysis functions
 Stochastic load modelling
POWER EQUIPMENT MODELS
 Large and comprehensive Equipment Type Library, fully
version-controlled with regular model updates
 Synchronous machines: motor/generator, selectable complexity
(classical, standard (2.2), Model 3.3, asynchronous starting)
 Asynchronous machines: motor/generator, standard (single- or
double-cage IM), saturable (single-cage IM) and doubly-fed IM;
machine parameter identification
 Static generator for generic modelling of wind- and
PV-generators, fuel cells, micro-turbines, batteries, general
storage devices, etc.; support of wind power curve for wind-ge-
nerators in load flow
 Dedicated PV system model with integrated power calculation
based on solar radiation (for Load Flow and Quasi-Dynamic
Simulation)
 External grid model for simple representation of external supply
system
 Simple and complex load models, special MV and LV load
models, including input based on yearly energy values and load
profiles
 Moving train model for the simulation of railway systems in
single phase AC systems and in DC systems NEW
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package
 AC or DC overhead lines (OHL): definition using electrical data
or tower geometries, support for line couplings with shared
rights of way (including AC/DC towers), electrical parameter
calculation for tower geometry, lumped- (PI) and distributed
parameter models (options include: constant parameter,
frequency dependent modal domain, frequency dependent
phase domain), support for all calculation functions (load
flow, harmonics, RMS, EMT, etc.) and power systems studies
(power flow, transient stability, TRV, OHL energisation, reactor
switching, lightning, etc).
 AC or DC cable systems: definition using electrical data or cable
geometry (single- or multi-core), support of cable couplings
(including AC/DC cable systems), lumped- and distributed
parameter models (constant parameter, frequency dependent
phase domain), support for all calculation functions (load flow,
harmonics, RMS, EMT) and power systems studies (power flow,
transient stability, TRV evaluation, cable energisation, etc.).
 Busbar trunking systems: simplified and detailed diagrams,
single, double and 1½ busbar system, with/without tie breaker,
with/without bypass
 Transformers: 2-, 3- and 4-winding transformer/auto transformer,
booster transformer
 Modelling of HVDC systems: line-commutated converters (LCC),
capacitor-commutated converter (CCC), two-level (2L) voltage
source converter (VSC), half- (HB) and full-bridge (FB) modular
multilevel converter (MMC), pulse generator
 Support of HVDC-MMC models type 3 (highly detailed, based
on simplified switchable resistances) up to 7 (RMS-load flow)
according to CIGRE (TB 604)
 Representation of various power electronics (PE) based
equipment using built-in models: PWM Converter, line
commutated rectifier/inverter, motor soft-starter, DC-DC
converter
– EMT modelling of any user-defined PE topology using
individual components (AC-DC interconnector, diode,
IGBT, thyristor, half- and full-bridge MMC valves, inductive
DC-coupling)
– Containment of EMT user-defined PE equipment models
within sub-models, allowing simple and unified single line
diagrams with all other calculation functions
 Static var compensation (SVC), thyristor controlled series
compensation (TCSC), shunt/filter models, and harmonic filters
(single- and d­ ouble-tuned, high pass)
 Other network branch models: step-voltage regulator, series
reactor, series capacitor, common impedance, circuit breaker
model (TRV curve, SF6 arcing model) etc.
 Further network models: AC/DC voltage/current sources, DC
Battery, DC machine, DC load, Fourier and harmonic signals,
impulse current source
2 Requires FMU Model Export licence
 Support of discrete-time modelling using the Modelica
Simulation Language NEW
– FMU export of Modelica models2
 Signal analysis models: Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis
 Protection devices: highly customisable relay models with over
30 basic function blocks; comprehensive relay library for static
and dynamic calculation functions
 Controller models such as station and secondary controller
including various control methods, transformer tap controller,
virtual power plants, load flow capability curves for generators
 Time and Time-Profile Characteristics for simplified modelling of
(recurrent) time series
 Parameter characteristics (scaling factor, vector, matrix, files)
for modelling of load profiles, wind/PV infeed, temperature
dependencies, etc.
 Composite models for branch and node models, including
­template library for handling composite models
 Grid organisation and element grouping (zones, areas,
­boundaries, circuits, routes, feeders, operators, owners, etc.)
NETWORK REPRESENTATION
 Support of any kind of meshed/radial 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-wire AC
and DC networks with combined AC and DC modelling for all
available analysis functions
 Single-phase, two-phase, bi-phase and three-phase technology
with/without neutral
 Hierarchical data model including sites, substations, bays,
primary and secondary equipment
 Detailed primary and secondary substation models (single/
double busbars with or without tie breaker, 1½ busbar, bypass
busbar), extendable for user-specific busbar configurations,
including protection schemes
 Switches and substation equipment such as CB, fuse,
disconnector, load break switch, grounding switch, NEC/NER,
CT, VT, CVT, combined CT/VT, etc.
 Running arrangements and switching rules for substation
­automation
NETWORK MODEL MANAGEMENT
 User-friendly and powerful Data Manager, including address line
for fast navigation
 Network Model Manager with spreadsheets for convenient
management of network equipment data and results
 Flexible grouping and filter functionality
 Grid Variations management with time-stamped grid ­Expansion
Stages and Variation Manager tool
 Highly flexible Study Case concept with definable Operation
Scenarios, Variations, Grids and Triggers
5
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package

 Operation Scenario Manager for displaying and editing  Single line diagram handling across Variations and Expansion
Operation Scenario data Stages
 Project Overview window and Study Case Manager for simplified  Automated drawing of Site and Substation Diagrams
management of Study Case configuration  Diagram Layout Tool for auto-drawing or assisted drawing of full
 Data (Model) Extension concept for user customisation with or ­partial network, feeders, protection devices (CTs, VT, relays),
user-defined classes and attributes branches, site and substation diagrams as well as auto-ex-
 Flexible parameter characteristics pansion of diagram

 Project versioning  User-definable symbols and composite graphics

 Database undo and rollback function  Global template libraries (e.g. for substation configurations,
WTGs, PV systems)
 Master and derived projects with merge tools
 Numerous diagram colouring and result visualisation modes
 Project combination and project connection assistant
(horizontal/vertical)  Flexible Heatmap background colouring scheme

 Data encryption for local database3  Navigation Pane facility

 View Bookmarks for quick navigation between zoom areas
POWERFACTORY ADMINISTRATION  Diagram export and printing functionality with comprehensive
print configuration options
 User accounting, data access and function access rights
 Tabbed window with browser-like navigation
 User authentication via PowerFactory user administration,
including password policy settings, or via external authenti-  Interactive split views for working simultaneously in multiple
cation services, such as LDAP or Microsoft Active Directory diagrams or plots

Team Edition RESULTS AND REPORTING

 Multi-User database with team working functionality and
 Extremely rich set of calculation quantities
support of simultaneous user sessions
 Comprehensive text and interactive spreadsheet reports
 Database housekeeping mechanisms
 Tabular result views via configurable Flexible Data pages
 Project archiving
 Export of results to standard data formats
 Offline Mode via locally cached database and possibility for
synchronisation with multi-user database when connected to the  Flexible reporting and result visualisation in network d­ iagrams
network (requires Network Licence with Floating Licence)  Interactive output window with flexible filter functionality
 Numerous interactive plots for result visualisation (differential
NETWORK DIAGRAMS AND GRAPHIC FEATURES and t­ ime-over current protection, harmonics, stability and
transients, ­eigenvalue analysis, etc.)
 Simplified single line diagrams for schematic and design views
with diagram conversion options  Easy-to-use plot navigation (e.g. scaling, zooming, moving/
sliding, stretching/compressing, etc.)
 Detailed single line diagrams showing full switch & component
model including primary and secondary equipment  Highly customisable plot layouts and styles, including curve
representation, axis and labels, gridlines, title, and legends
 Graphical representations of sites, substations and bays
 Intelligent Plots with statistics functionality
 Intelligent Overview Diagrams supporting node & branch views
 Digital Signal plot and Fault Recorder view
 Geographic Diagrams (GPS-based) with background maps
 Powerful results comparison mode
 Background Maps representation automated via mapping server
interface (e.g. Open Street Map, Google Maps4, Esri ArcGIS4)
DATA CONVERTERS
 Area Interchange Diagrams
 Graphic search option for network elements in diagrams,  Support of various data conversion and interfacing options for
­including geographic search bi-­directional data exchange

 Flexible diagram layer concept with opacity settings for  DGS interface: Bi-directional, flexible DIgSILENT data exchange
customisable layer combinations, including annotation layers for format (ASCII, XML, CSV, ODBC) supporting GIS and SCADA
enriched visualisation options (network diagram, maps, images, interfacing
texts, plots, etc.)

3 DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted databases. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details of an encrypted
database are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
4 Upon request: additional licence agreements with map service providers apply

6
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package

 Data import converter:

– PSS/E, PSS/U, PSS/ADEPT HUB NEW (Siemens/PTI)
– Sincal (Siemens)
– UCTE (ENTSO-E)
– CIM data exchange tools5 (ENTSO-E Profiles 2009, CGMES
2.4.15 certified and CGMES 3.0), including CIM model editor
and validator
– Neplan
– Integral 7 (FGH)
– Elektra
– ISU (SAP)
– Reticmaster (Inspired Interfaces)
– PRAO5
– ANAREDE and ANAFAS NEW
 Data export converter:
– CIM5 (ENTSO-E Profiles: 2009, CGMES 2.4.15 certified and
CGMES 3.0)
– UCTE (ENTSO-E)
– PSS/E5 (Siemens/PTI)
– Integral 75 (FGH)
– ANAREDE and ANAFAS5 NEW

GENERAL SOFTWARE INFORMATION

 Comprehensive examples including linked demo videos on the

DIgSILENT YouTube channel
 Interactive introductory tutorial and various advanced f­ unctions
tutorials
 Complete and well-structured User Manual (1300+ pages)
 Detailed Technical References for all Power Equipment models
 User-friendly GUI with new modern appearance, available in
multiple languages
 Output window including icons, colours, tabs and filters for
­categorisation and visualisation
 Integrated script editor
 User profiles with customisable toolbars, dialogs and context
menus
 Functional integration for all power system applications,
including transmission and distribution, ­industry, renewables
and smart grids
 Various interfaces for communication and data exchange with
third-party systems
 Fully compatible with MS Windows 32- and 64-bit versions
 Compliance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)

5 Not part of the Base Package; this function has to be requested separately

7
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
CONTINGENCY ANALYSIS NETWORK REDUCTION

 AC, DC and AC linearised analysis methods, including r­ egional  Flexible definition of boundaries with Boundary Definition Tool
assessment  Calculation of (AC or DC) load flow and short-circuit ­equivalent
 Outage levels: n-1, n-2, n-k  Support of load, Ward, extended Ward and REI-DIMO
 Fast contingency screening with recalculation of critical cases ­equivalents
using AC method  Regional equivalent method for flexible reduction of
 Single and multiple time phase consideration neighbouring systems
 Dynamic contingencies option for creating fault cases “on the  Network Reduction for Dynamic Equivalent, to support b­ alanced
fly” RMS simulations8
 Remedial Action Schemes for flexible and dynamic analysis of  Numerous options for aggregation of non-linear elements
post-fault actions  Capturing of reduction via Variation for convenient toggling
 Substation automation via switching schemes between original and equivalent grid
 User-configured time-sweep analysis with parallelisation option
 Generator effectiveness and quad booster effectiveness PROTECTION FUNCTIONS

 Enhanced Fault Case management  Comprehensive relay library with relay models suitable for
 Comprehensive spreadsheet reporting features, including steady-state, RMS and EMT calculations9
graphical ­visualisation of critical cases  Synchronisation with DIgSILENT StationWare
 Tracing of individual contingency cases  Highly-detailed spreadsheet reports for protection settings
 Contingency comparison mode (overcurrent, distance, voltage, frequency protection)

 Parallelised Contingency Analysis using multiple cores  Graphical visualisation and editing of fuses, relays, CTs and VTs
including auto layout functionality
 Reloading of results
 Protection Audit
QUASI-DYNAMIC SIMULATION – Validation tool for protection settings and configurations
– User-configurable fault types assessments
 Medium- to long-term simulations based on steady-state
analysis – Automatic determination of protection topology

 Time and Time-Profile characteristics for simplified modelling of – Automatic short-circuit calculation
(recurrent) time series – Multiple predefined reports with auto-identification of critical
 Consideration of planned outages, network Variations & pro­tection settings (device coordination, device tripping times,
Expansion Stages fault clearing times)

 Flexible definition of simulation time range with arbitrary – Short-Circuit Trace functionality for steady-state simulation of
resolutions fault c­ learance and relay responses

 Simulation plots and tabular reports including statistical analysis Time-Overcurrent Protection
 QDSL-language for user-definable models (load flow and  Overcurrent-time diagram with drag & drop functionality
quasi-dynamic equations) ­including auto-generated graphical legend
 QDSL model encryption functionality6  Cable and transformer damage curves
 Parallelised simulation using multiple cores  Motor starting curves
 Reloading of results  Automatic display of measured currents
 Use of neural networks for fast approximation of results7 NEW  Steady-state response checks
 Steady-state short-circuit simulation with tracing of individual
steps

6 Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does
not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
7 Requires Artificial Intelligence licence
8 Requires RMS Function licence
9 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

8
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

 Steady-state tripping times for transient or sub-transient current/ ARC-FLASH ANALYSIS

voltage values
 Arc-Flash calculation in accordance with IEEE 1584-2002 and
 Transient response checks10
-2018, NFPA 70E-2012 and DGUV 203-077
 Protection Graphic Assistant
 Incident Energy, Flash-Protection Boundary and PPE Category on
– Customisable short-circuit sweep diagrams including the single line diagram
visualisation of protection settings
 Automated preparation of Arc-Flash labels via MS Excel/Word
 Protection Coordination Assistant NEW
 Automatic protection-based fault clearing time ­determination13
– Automatic calculation of overcurrent protection settings
 Calculation of arcing-current energy
– Support of various coordination methods and setting rules,
including user-defined rules
CABLE ANALYSIS
 Protection Model Features
– Fuses and low-voltage circuit breakers Cable Sizing
– Positive-, negative-, zero-sequence inverse and definite time  Automatic cable sizing based on IEC 60364-5-52, NF C15-100,
characteristics NF C13-200, BS 7671, and VDE 0100-520, etc.
– Thermal overload characteristics  Cable reinforcement optimisation
– Directional elements supporting cross-, self- and memory  Verification of global and/or individual thermal & short-circuit
polarising, Wattmetric method constraints
– Differential unit with harmonic blocking for multiple h­ armonic  Verification of user-defined voltage drops per terminal and/or
orders feeders
– Generic and detailed manufacturer-specific recloser units  Balanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced calculation with
– Signal transmission between relays, inter-tripping, support of all phase technologies (1-, 2- and 3-phase systems,
interblocking schemes with or without neutral conductor)

– Detailed CT, VT, combined CT/VT, and CVT models i­ncluding  System phase technology and cable type consistency checks in
­saturation the feeder

– Over-, under-voltage inverse and definite time ­characteristics
– Programmable logic unit
– Over-, under-frequency and df/dt inverse and definite time
characteristics11
Distance Protection
 Includes full “Time-Overcurrent Protection” module
 P-Q diagrams and R-X diagrams with support of the display of
­measured impedance trace
 Time-distance diagrams, with metric or calculated display of
zone reach in forward and reverse direction
 Protection Graphic Assistant
– Reach of protection zones colourings in diagrams
– Protection Coordination Assistant
– Automatic calculation of distance protection settings
– Support of various coordination methods and setting rules,
including user-defined rules
 Protection model features
– Generic and detailed manufacturer-specific Mho, polygonal
distance zones and distance starting units
– Out of step detection and power swing blocking unit12
 Various verification reports and automatic modification of cable
types in the existing network via network Variations
Cable Ampacity Calculation
 Cable Ampacity calculation based on IEC 60287 or
­Neher-McGrath method
 Evaluation of maximum allowable current for cables based on
cable material, laying arrangement and environmental data
including presence of external heat sources
 Convenient cable layout modelling capabilities, supporting all
laying arrangements of single and multi-core cables
 Rich reports and automatic modification of cable derating
factors in the existing network via network Variations
POWER QUALITY AND HARMONIC ANALYSIS
Harmonic Load Flow
 Harmonic voltage and current indices (IEC 61000-3-6, BDEW
2008)
 Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced (multiphase)
model
 Unbalanced harmonic sources with consideration of phase
angles
 Non-characteristic and inter-harmonics

10 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

11 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) licence
12 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence
13 Requires Protection Functions licence

9
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

 Multiple harmonic injections: current and voltage sources,  Assessment of:

thyristor ­rectifiers, PWM-converters, SVS, non-linear loads, – Voltage changes and flicker
Norton equivalents
– Voltage imbalance
 Background distortion frequency-dependent R and L values
– Loadings and short-circuit currents
 Various harmonic distortion indices such as THD, HD, HF, THF,
– Harmonics, interharmonics, audio-frequency ripple control
TAD, TIFmx, total RMS currents and voltages, loadings and
losses (defined according to IEEE and DIN/IEC standards) – Commutation notches

 Harmonic distortion plot with pre-defined distortion limits – Interharmonic voltages

according to international standards – HV resonances
 Waveform plots
 Calculation of K-Factors and Loss Factors for 2-winding TRANSMISSION NETWORK TOOLS
transformers (UL1562, EN 50464-3 (replaces BS 7821), EN
50541-2, IEEE C.57.110-1998) PV curves calculation
 Voltage stability assessment by determination of critical point of
Flicker Analysis voltage instability
 Flicker Assessment (IEC 61400-21)  Support contingency analysis, i.e. detection of “limiting
– Short- and long-term flicker disturbance factors for continuous ­contingency”
and switching operations
QV curves calculation
– Relative voltage changes
 Voltage stability limit assessment by evaluating the bus voltage
 Flickermeter (IEC 61000-4-15)
change w.r.t. variation of injected reactive power
– EMT or RMS signals
 Evaluating of stable operating points for various system loading
– Support of multiple file formats such as COMTRADE, CSV, ­scenarios, including contingencies
­user-defined, etc.
 Determination of reactive power compensation by superposition
Frequency Sweep of ­capacitor characteristics in QV plots

 Automatic step size adaption or constant step size Power Transfer Distribution Factors
 Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced network model  Analysis of the impact of a power exchange between two
 Self and mutual impedances/admittances (phase and s­ equence regions
­components)  Various load and generation scaling options
 Frequency-dependent R and L values and line/ cable models
Transfer Capacity Analysis
 Spectral density of voltage amplitude/angle
 Determination of maximum power transfer capacity between
 Risk assessment of sub-synchronous oscillations using radiality
two regions
factors NEW
 Various load and generation scaling options for exporting and
Filter Analysis importing region
 Various filter models  Thermal, voltage and contingency constraints options
 Design and layout parameters
Outage Planning14
 Filter sizing and verification reports
 Ripple control analysis DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TOOLS

CONNECTION REQUEST ASSESSMENT Tie Open Point Optimisation

 According to:  Optimisation of tie open point positions subject to loss minimi-
sation, i­mprovement of system reliability, or minimisation of
– D-A-CH-CZ guidelines
switching actions
– BDEW 2008, 4th Supplement
 Support of balanced/unbalanced systems including consideration
– VDE-AR-N 4105 guidelines (2011 and 2018) of thermal and voltage limits and voltage drop / rise
– VDE-AR-N 4110 guidelines (2011 and 2018)  Simultaneous optimisation of single or multiple scenarios and
time periods NEW

14 See separate description for details

10
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
 Branch and boundary flow limits, absolute voltage, and voltage
drop/rise constraints
 Enhanced reporting features and graphical visualisation,
including a­ utomatic identification of tie open points
 Various methodologies, such as mesh exploration heuristic,
­genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing
Voltage Profile Optimisation
 Verification and optimisation mode
 Voltage profile optimisation for bi-directional power flows in
systems with a high level of distributed generation
 Determination of optimal distribution transformer tap positions
for p­ roduction and consumption cases (simultaneous or
­independent)
 Combined consideration of MV and LV feeder voltage profiles
with enhanced plotting features
Phase Balance Optimisation
 Automatic reconnection of loads, generators, and/or branch
elements in order to achieve minimal power imbalance
 Minimisation of imbalance at feeding point or average imbalance
in feeder
 High flexibility to also allow for partial reconfiguration
 Capturing of results via Variations for convenient toggling of
original and optimised phase connections
 Various methodologies, such as standard heuristics, genetic
­algorithms, and simulated annealing
Optimal Equipment Placement
 Determination of optimal locations and sizes of new storage
units and voltage regulators
 Economic assessment to minimise the overall costs including
costs for installation, operation and maintenance
 Optimisation of existing storage units, voltage regulators and
transformers
 User-definable time periods and resolutions
 Consideration of thermal and voltage limits, as well as
equipment-specific constraints
 Automated generation of optimal time characteristics for power
dispatch of storage units and tap positions of voltage regulators
 Numerous reporting facilities and result visualisations
 For standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in
solver
 For solving large-scale problems: integrated interface to external
solvers such as CPLEX and GUROBI15
Optimal Capacitor Placement
 Determination of optimal locations, types, phase technology and
sizes of capacitors
15 CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately
16 Requires Protection Function licence
17 Requires Power Quality and Harmonics Analysis licence
18 See separate description for details
 Economic assessment considering costs of losses against
­installation costs under predefined voltage constraints
 Support of load variation via characteristics
Hosting Capacity Analysis
 Evaluation of the maximum distributed energy resources (DER)
and/or spare load capacity of a network
 Consideration of thermal, voltage, protection16 and power quality
limits17
 Graphical visualisation of maximum, minimum and average
­capacity of the system
 Tabular reports of the maximum capacities and limiting
­components for feeders and terminals
 Parallel computing using multiple cores
Outage Planning18
OUTAGE PLANNING
 Delivered as part of the Distribution Network Tools and
Transmission Network Tools modules
 Tool for management of planned outages
 Schedule supports various recurrence patterns
 Support of associated remedial actions
 Action macro recorder to facilitate definition of remedial action
events
 Integrated functions to apply and reset planned outages
 Tabular reports and Gantt diagrams with various filter options
 Graphical visualisation of outage and remedial actions, including
affected regions
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS TOOLS
Techno-Economical Analysis
 Economic assessment of network expansion strategies
 Net Present Value method considering costs of losses,
investment costs, economic impact of failure rates (only with
Reliability A
­ nalysis functions), and project schedules
 Efficiency ratio evaluation to determine optimal year of
­investment
 Parallelised execution using multiple cores
 Study Case Comparison tool, for the evaluation and comparison
of different network development strategies NEW
 Reporting options for input data and calculation results
Power Park Energy Analysis
 Economic evaluation of power plants based on load flow
calculations, with three calculation methods for energy analysis
11
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
 Basic Analysis:
– Designed for power parks consisting of wind generators
– Simulation of power generation via wind speed distribution
(Weibull) and wind power curves
 Time-series Analysis19:
– Energy analysis of power parks over a user-defined period of
time using the quasi-dynamic simulation
– Highly flexible data input, using characteristics for many
network equipment parameters
 Probabilistic Analysis20:
– Power park energy analysis, taking probability distributions of
various quantities into account
– Monte-Carlo and Quasi-Monte Carlo methods available
– Range of further statistical evaluation possibilities
– Comprehensive report function: report losses, profits and
costs, energies, full load hours and more
– Selection of relevant plots with predefined variables
PROBABILISTIC ANALYSIS
 Network assessment based on probabilistic input data
 Supports Probabilistic Load Flow and Probabilistic Assessment
of OPF21
 Unlimited stochastic input data modelling with flexible
­distribution curve objects
 Includes probabilistic modelling of generation with PV systems
and/or wind generators, as well as variable load consumption
 Support of numerous distributions, such as uniform, normal,
­­log-normal, Weibull, exponential, geometric, Bernoulli, finite
discrete
 Modelling of dependencies via correlation objects
 Auto-conversion tool to estimate distributions and ­correlations
based on historic profiles/ time series data
 Monte Carlo and fast Quasi-Monte Carlo method
 Determination of statistical results for any calculation ­quantity,
including means and standard deviations (with their confidence
intervals), maxima, minima, higher order momenta
 Rich post-processing and plotting facilities for calculation
­results, i­ncluding their distribution functions, density functions,
­correlations
 Post-assessment of critical worst-case or average cases via
­Probabilistic Analyser
RELIABILITY ANALYSIS FUNCTIONS
Failure Models
 Line/cable, transformer, distribution transformer, busbar and
circuit breaker failures
 Generator failures with stochastic multi-state model
19 Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence
20 Requires Probabilistic Analysis licence
21 Probabilistic assessment of OPF also requires Optimal Power Flow licence
12
 n-1, n-2 and common mode failures (n-k)
 Double earth faults
 Independent second failures
 Protection/circuit breaker failures
 Protection over-function
Optimal Power Restoration
 Failure effect analysis (FEA)
– Automatic protection-based fault clearing
– Intelligent high-end system restoration with potential network
­reconfiguration and load-shedding
– Support of branch and boundary flow limits, absolute ­voltage,
and voltage drop/rise constraints
– Sectionalising (remote controlled switches, short-circuit
­indicators, manual restoration)
– Substation automation with switching rules
 Animated tracing of individual cases
 Detailed reports for restoration action plans
Reliability Assessment
 Fast state enumeration for balanced/unbalanced systems,
including optimal power restoration techniques
 Calculation of all common reliability indices (IEEE 1366)
 Contribution of components to reliability indices
 Support of load variation, including load distribution curves
 Support of generation dispatch profiles
 Consideration of maintenance schedules
 Support of various tariff and cost models
 Parallelised Reliability Assessment using multiple cores
Optimal Remote Control Switch (RCS) Placement
 Determination of optimal number and locations for RCS
­installation for improvement of system reliability
 Economic assessment for various objective functions
Optimal Manual Restoration
 Calculation of optimal switching scheme for manual power
­restoration phase
Optimal Recloser Placement NEW
 Optimal locations for reclosers, to improve reliability indices
Generation Adequacy Analysis
 Stochastic assessment of system supply capabilities (loss of load
probabilities, capacity credit, etc.)
 Consideration of generator outages and maintenance s­ chedules
(Monte Carlo), as well as load variation
 Enhanced probabilistic models for wind generation
 Rich suite of reporting and plotting tools
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

Loss of Grid Assessment NEW  Optimisation (AC and/or DC) of generator dispatch schemes
 Risk assessment for loss of grid supply to critical power stations including hydro units, batteries and general storage devices, as
well as control units such as phase shifters and HVDCs
OPTIMAL POWER FLOW (OPF)  State-of-the-art solutions for performance and memory
efficiency
Reactive Power Optimisation (OPF I)  User-definable time periods and resolutions
 Minimisation of total or partial grid losses  Hard and soft constraints including branch & boundary flow
 Maximisation of reactive power reserve limits, voltages, as well as ramping, minimum up/down times or
spinning reserves of generators
 Reactive power optimisation (interior point method)
 Consideration of contingencies in the optimisation, including
 Various controls such as:
parallelisation option
– Generator reactive power
 Powerful redundant constraint filter methods
– Transformer and shunt taps
 Seamless integration of all market parameters into network
– Static Var Systems model
 Flexible constraints such as:  Numerous reporting facilities, and result visualisations ­including
– Branch flow and voltage limits energy plots and dispatch schedules
– Generator reactive power limits  Post-assessment tools for detailed investigations
– Reactive power reserve  Automated generation of optimal solution scenarios and time
– Boundary flows series
 For standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in
Economic Dispatch (OPF II) solver
 Various objective functions, e.g.:  For solving large-scale problems: integrated optional interface
– Minimisation of losses to external solvers such as CPLEX or GUROBI22 or data exchange
– Minimisation of costs (eco dispatch) via AMPL-NL file format

– Minimisation of load shedding

STATE ESTIMATION
– Optimisation of remedial post-fault actions, e.g. booster tap
changes (pre-to post-fault)  P, Q, I and V measurement models
 AC optimisation (interior point method)  Measurement plausibility checks
 DC optimisation (linear programming)  Automatic bad data detection/elimination
 Various controls such as:  Verification of system observability
– Generator active and reactive power  Various options to handle unobservable regions (e.g. pseudo
– Transformer, quad booster and shunt taps measurements)

 Static Var Systems  Consideration of load flow constraints

 Flexible constraints such as:

STABILITY ANALYSIS FUNCTIONS (RMS)
– Branch flow and voltage limits
– Generator active and reactive power limits  Multi-phase AC networks, DC networks

– Active and reactive power reserve  Support of balanced and unbalanced grid conditions

– Boundary flows  Fast, fixed step size and adaptive step size algorithm

 Contingency constraints (DC only)
UNIT COMMITMENT AND DISPATCH OPTIMISATION
 Power plant dispatch optimisation for Market Simulation
 Minimisation of redispatch costs, such as operating, emission
& startup costs, including curtailment of renewables / load
shedding
 A-stable numerical integration algorithms supporting long-term
stability simulations with integration step sizes ranging from
­milliseconds to minutes, individually selectable for each model
 High precision event and interrupt handling
 Simulation of any kind of fault or event
 Transient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. machines)
 Support of all protection library relays
 Real-time simulation mode

22 CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

13
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
 Simulation scan feature, e.g. frequency scan, loss of synchronism
scan, synchronous machine speed scan, voltage-/voltage
recovery scan, fault ride through scan or common variable scan
 Frequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)
and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range
assessment
 Frequency Response Analysis tool for dynamic models with
Bode/Nyquist plots
User-Defined Dynamic Models
 DIgSILENT Simulation Language (DSL) for Dynamic RMS
Modelling
– Graphical editor for drawing any kind of block diagram (AVR,
prime mover, relay, etc.)
– Fully flexible signal wiring schemes having access to any grid
object and their parameters via definition of Frames
– Support of vector signals and signal multiplexing
– Nesting of frames and model building blocks
– Fully flexible definition of simulation functions via the DSL
syntax
– High precision built-in macros & functions
– Automatic initialisation of complex, non-linear models
– Configuration scripts for initialisation using DPL
– Large built-in standard model library, including IEEE and CIM
ENTSO-E models
– DSL-C interface for user-defined controller models with
automatic DSL-to-C converter
– IEC61400-27 DLL based interface for external models
– Support of model pre-compilation for improved performance
– OPC interface23 for real-time applications
– IEEE C37.118 simulation interface24 for PMU data streaming
– DSL Encryption function25
 Modelica Simulation Language NEW
– Support of Modelica Simulation Language for discrete-time
models
 Integration of external models using FMI (Functional Mock-up
Interface) NEW
– Support of Functional Mock-Up Unit (FMU) import for Model
Exchange
– FMU export of Modelica models26
Co-Simulation Functionality
 Single domain co-simulation (RMS balanced – RMS balanced,
RMS unbalanced – RMS unbalanced)
 Multiple domain co-simulation (RMS balanced, RMS unbalanced,
EMT27)
23 OPC Interface licence required
24 C37 Simulation Interface licence required
25 Licence for DPL/DSL/QDSL encryption required. Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In
particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
26 Requires FMU Model Export licence
27 EMT licence required
28 Requires separate Co-Simulation Interface licence
14
 Co-simulation with external solver28 (e.g. third party power
systems s­ imulation program) using FMI 2.0 (Functional Mock-Up
Interface) standard NEW
 Computing supported as built-in for increased performance
 Both accurate (implicit) and fast (explicit) co-simulation m
­ ethods
­available
 Support of multi-port Norton/Thevenin remote network
equivalents for explicit method NEW
 Easy to define co-simulation border using boundary objects
 Any number of co-simulation regions can be defined
 Co-simulation of networks split by regions depending on any
criteria: localisation, voltage levels, etc.
ELECTROMAGNETIC TRANSIENTS (EMT)
 Integrated simulation of electromagnetic transients in
­multiphase AC and DC systems
 Fast, fixed step size or adaptive step size algorithm
 Simulation of static var compensations (SVC), thyristor controlled
series compensations (TCSC), FACTS, STATCOM, etc.
 Modelling of HVDC interconnections: line commutated converter
(LCC) HVDC, two-level PWM Converter, half- and full-bridge
MMC converter
 Power electronic devices and discrete components (diode,
thyristor, PWM converter, rectifier/inverter, DC valve, soft starter,
etc.)
 Support of advanced constant and frequency-dependent
distributed parameter models for OHL and cables
– Phase- and modal-domain model types
– Parameter calculation for overhead lines and cables
– Twisting overhead lines and cross-bonding of cables
– Multi-phase single- / multi-core, cable and tubular cable
systems
– Calculation of layer impedances and admittances
 Non-linear elements and saturation characteristics, including
definition of hysteresis
 Series capacitors, including spark gap model
 Surge arrestor models
 Impulse voltage & current source for lightning surge analysis
 Support of AC-DC intercircuit fault events
 Accurate EMT models of renewable generation (wind/PV, etc.)
and storage systems
 Discrete R-L-C elements
 Flexible template definition to create and re-utilise user­specific
models library
 Insulation coordination analysis including temporary (TOV),
switching (SOV) and lightning (LOV) transient over-voltages
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

 Stochastic switching analysis and point-on-wave (POW) SYSTEM PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION

switching
 Parameter estimation of non-linear dynamic MIMO-systems fully
 Frequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)
­integrated with DSL modelling
and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range
assessment  Black box parameter estimation of non-linear systems

 Inrush, ferro-resonance, SSR and TRV studies  Identification of any calculation relevant parameter (type,
element, control model)
 COMTRADE file support
 Multi-parameter identification with flexible upper/lower
 Sophisticated circuit breaker modelling and switch event options:
limitation
DC breaker support, TRV envelope curve, phase scatter upon
switching  Various algorithms available (gradient based, swarm
­intelligence, pattern search, global optimisers)
User-Defined Dynamic Models  Support of load flow, Quasi-Dynamic Simulation30 NEW ,
 See RMS module for details RMS-simulation (balanced/unbalanced) and EMT-simulation31
 Multiple options for optimisation, using field measurement data
Co-Simulation Functionality
or simulation results
 Single and multiple domain co-simulation (RMS balanced29, RMS
unbalanced29, EMT)
SCRIPTING AND AUTOMATION

MOTOR STARTING FUNCTIONS  Python: Integration of Python as programming language with

full PowerFactory data model access and rich function suite
 Single or multiple motor starting
 DPL (DIgSILENT Programming Language):
 Transient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. motors), with full
– C-like syntax supporting unlimited access to PowerFactory
­support of controller models
­objects, parameters and their functionality
 Steady-state motor starting
– Extendable function scope of DPL via C-Interface, thus
 Various motor starting methods (reactor, auto transformer, allowing access to external data and applications
variable rotor resistance, star delta, thyristor softstarter, start at
– Encryption of DPL Scripts32
any speed, etc.)
 Detailed Scripting Reference documentation for DPL/Python
 Thermal limit check of cables and transformers
(850+ pages) including function descriptions and example code
 Automatic starting check function, visualised in single line snippets
diagram
 Add-on Modules: framework for user-extendable function scope
 Detailed report including data model extension concept for user-definable input
attributes and result parameters
SMALL SIGNAL STABILITY (EIGENVALUE ANALYSIS)  API (Application Interface): C++ interface for full external
 Full and selective eigenvalue analysis ­automation of PowerFactory

 Balanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced network represen-  Task Automation Tool for parallelised execution of calculation
tation, i­ncluding combined AC and DC modelling, with non-­con- functions and scripts
ventional generation such as wind turbines, PV systems, HVDC,
VSC and other FACTS devices ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE NEW
 Interactive and mutually linked NEW eigenvalue, mode bar and  Innovative use of neural networks for fast power system analysis
mode phasor plots
 Automatic generation of datasets for neural network training
 Visualisation of eigenvectors in network diagrams
 Training of neural networks using GPU capabilites33
 Tabular reports of eigenvalues, including damped frequencies,
 Application of trained neural networks for ultra-fast
damping time constants
Quasi-Dynamic Simulations
 Detailed reports of oscillatory modes including participation
factors of state variables, controllability and observability

29 See RMS module for details

30 Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence
31 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence
32 Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models. In particular, DIgSILENT does
not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
33 Requires dedicated NVIDIA GPU with a compute capability of 3.5 or higher

15
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

INTERFACES

 API-Application Interface (API is part of the module “Scripting

and Automation”, see section above)
 OPC DA/UA Interface34 – SCADA interoperability standard, A/D
signal interfacing
 IEEE C37.118 simulation interface35 – PMU protocol
 Co-Simulation interface36 – Third party EMT/RMS co-simulation
interface based on the FMI 2.0 standard NEW

34 Requires OPC Interface licence

35 Requires C37 Simulation Interface licence
36 Requires Co-Simulation Interface licence

16
NOTES
NOTES
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