Determination of electromagnetic effects of electric traction networks on pipelines

Abstract

The article presents the simulation results of electromagnetic effects of a 25 kV electric traction network on a steel pipeline with a pipe diameter of 250 mm. It is shown that a pipeline with insulating pipe coatings can induce stresses dangerous to operating personnel. At certain points of the pipeline, grounded on both sides, the magnitude of the induced voltage can reach 116 V with an approach width of 100 meters. Therefore, it is required to develop and implement special measures to protect operating personnel. With an increase in the approach width to 400 m, the maximum values of the induced voltages did not exceed the permissible level. In modes of short circuits in the electric traction network, the induced voltages in the pipeline may briefly exceed 500 V. The highest voltages are observed at points located near the short circuit point. In case of short circuits at the terminals of the traction substations, the magnitudes of the induced voltages are reduced to 75 V. To reduce the induced voltages, the following measures can be assumed: reducing the length of parallel passage sections of pipeline and railway, increasing the approach width, installing additional groundings. During the operation of the structure, the magnitude of the “pipe-to-ground” transition resistance may decrease, which will result in a decrease in induced voltages.