Switching overvoltages in motor circuits

Abstract

The switching of HV motor circuits in the megawatt range can cause large overvoltages on motor terminals. The amplitude of the resulting voltage spikes depends on breaker type and circuit characteristics. If the amplitude of switching overvoltages exceeds the basic insulation level of the motor, overvoltage protection circuitry should be installed to prevent a motor insulation failure. The decision whether overvoltage protection circuitry (surge pack) must be installed requires a prediction of the overvoltage level. This paper deals with switching overvoltages in motor circuits with a unit transformer between switchgear and motor. Overvoltages of motor circuits were simulated using specially developed simulation models. The results of three case studies revealed a large impact of cabling and transformer on motor overvoltages. In most of the cases, a unit transformer connected between switchgear and motor will provide an overvoltage protection to the motor. However, the transformer can also be a main cause of large overvoltages when connected to cables of specific length and capacitance. The paper provides some simple rules to recognize such critical configurations.