Reactive Compensation Research Articles

Comprehensive benefit optimization method for photovoltaic inverters participating in distribution network loss reduction by reactive compensation

When a large number of distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems are integrated into the distribution network, power flow becomes bidirectionally fluctuating, resulting in variable line losses. In the scenario of reverse flow, the increase in line loss is particularly significant. The bidirectional reactive power regulation of photovoltaic inverters is an effective approach to reduce losses in the distribution network. However, despite the benefits of reducing losses, reactive power regulation by photovoltaic inverters also incurs additional costs. Therefore, there is a need for research into a comprehensive benefit optimization method for inverters participation in reducing reactive power losses in distribution networks. Firstly, the cost quantification models for the investment, transformation, operation, and lifespan loss of the photovoltaic inverters involved in reactive power loss reduction are established. Secondly, the benefit quantification models for loss reduction and power factor improvement are developed. Thirdly, considering various operational scenarios of both photovoltaic systems and loads, a comprehensive benefit optimization method for photovoltaic inverters participating in reactive power loss reduction in distribution networks is proposed. Finally, through example analysis, the cost and benefit are calculated and fitted in different scenarios, and the optimization calculation is carried out. Compared to the scenario where the photovoltaic inverter operates at the maximum reactive power regulation capacity, the optimized comprehensive benefit is increased by 21.20%. The proposed method is validated to effectively enhance the comprehensive benefits of inverters participation in reactive power loss reduction.

Impact of Cognitive Tasks on Biomechanical Adjustments During Single-Leg Drop Landings in Individuals with Functional Ankle Instability

This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanics of single-leg drop landing in individuals with functional ankle instability (FAI) during cognitive tasks, contrasting these findings with those of healthy controls to provide insights for evidence-based rehabilitation strategies. Fifteen FAI participants, identified using clinical tools, were age- and activity-matched with controls. They performed drop landings with and without a cognitive task, and the data were analyzed using a 2 × 2 mixed ANOVA. At the initial ground contact (IC), the FAI group’s affected side showed a significantly smaller plantarflexion angle than the control group (p = 0.008). With cognitive tasks, this angle increased in the FAI group (p = 0.005). The FAI group also had larger knee flexion at contact (p = 0.002) and greater knee valgus at peak vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) (p = 0.027). They exhibited a higher peak vGRF, shorter time to peak vGRF (T-vGRF), and higher loading rate (LR) (all p < 0.05). No differences were found in other variables (p > 0.05). This study shows that FAI individuals make specific biomechanical adjustments under cognitive tasks, notably increased plantarflexion at IC, suggesting reactive compensations. Despite similar motor control to controls, this may reflect long-term adaptations rather than equal proficiency.

Fault Tolerant Control of Grid Connected Inverters Based on Low-Voltage Ride Through

To enhance the reliability of new energy grid connected systems, a fault-tolerant model predictive control strategy with low-voltage ride-through capability for grid connected inverter bridge arms has been proposed. Firstly, the operational principles following a single-phase bridge arm fault in the grid-tied inverter are analyzed. Then, a fault-tolerant structure for the grid connected inverter is established by creating a virtual bridge arm using direct current-side capacitors. Subsequently, a current prediction model is established, and control is implemented using redundant vectors. Additionally, by dynamically adjusting reactive current compensation commands based on the relationship between grid voltage drops and reactive current commands, the system is ensured to maintain continuous and stable operation even during grid voltage fluctuations. Finally, experimental results demonstrate that this fault-tolerant control strategy can still maintain the continuous and stable operation of the system when bridge arm faults occur due to grid voltage drops at the inverter grid connection point.

Enhancing Power System Stability through Reactive Compensation with Static VAR Compensator

A Static Var Compensator (SVC) is a vital component in modern electrical power systems for regulating reactive power, maintaining voltage stability, and improving power quality. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of SVCs in real-time reactive power compensation and voltage control, particularly in large transmission networks. By providing fast and dynamic reactive power support, SVCs help optimize power flow and reduce transmission losses, contributing to a more stable and efficient power grid. The novelty of this research lies in the use of an advanced segmented thyristor-controlled reactor (TCR) integrated with fixed capacitor (FC) systems, which allows for modular and highly adaptable reactive power compensation. This configuration improves the precision of voltage regulation, reduces harmonic distortion, and enhances the response time of the system, compared to conventional SVC setups. Additionally, this study explores the application of SVCs in power grids with high penetration of renewable energy sources, highlighting their role in managing voltage fluctuations caused by variable generation. The findings of the study demonstrate that SVCs significantly improve voltage stability and power factor correction, particularly in regions with heavy inductive loads or fluctuating renewable energy inputs. The implementation of SVCs in large transmission networks leads to a measurable reduction in power losses and increases grid resilience. Overall, the research confirms that SVCs are an indispensable tool for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of modern power systems, especially in the face of growing demand and renewable energy integration.

Multifunctional Control Strategy for a Hybrid Solid-State Transformer Applied to Modern Distribution Electric Grids

This paper presents the control and hardware design for a Hybrid Solid-State Transformer (HSST) applied to modern distribution systems. The HSST combines the advantages of conventional transformers, such as high efficiency and low cost, with those of Solid-State Transformers (SST), such as multifunctionality and fast dynamic response. Real-time simulation using a Typhoon HIL404 device is performed to validate the proposed multifunctional control strategy. The corresponding results validate the HSST’s capability to provide, while only processing partial system power, a regulated output voltage with grid voltage harmonic suppression and, at the same time, current load reactive and harmonic compensation to ensure a high-power factor and improved power quality to the grid.

Analysis and improvement of power quality in the onboard electrical power systems within a self-propelled floating crane

This research addresses electromagnetic compatibility and power quality (EMC and PQ) challenges in shipboard electric power systems (SEPS) with dynamic positioning (DP) capabilities, focusing on the self-propelled floating crane (SPFC) “EXPERT 3.” Our goal is to enhance methodologies for evaluating power quality indicators (PQI) related to voltage and current waveform distortions, specifically in converter-based propulsion complexes (CBPCs) featuring variable-frequency regulated asynchronous drives (VFDs). We investigate harmonic current and voltage distortions, reactive power generation, and power factor (PF) in SEPS “EXPERT 3″ during the operation of VFDs with conventional semiconductor power converters (SPCs). A refined MATLAB model considers equipment and cable network parameters, validating distortion indicators at ship synchronous generators (SGs). PQI compliance with international maritime standards is verified at the point of common coupling (PCC) for various VFD configurations with pulse width modulated (PWM) SPCs and filter-compensating devices (FCDs). We propose an improved controlled FCD (CFCD) incorporating a resonance filter (RF) and a controllable reactor compensator (CRC). CFCD efficiency in various VFD configurations is experimentally validated. We analyze harmonic distortions of voltage and current, including high-frequency (HF) commutations in VFDs with input thyristor-based rectifiers (TBRs), considering parasitic ”phase-hull“ capacitances of cable line segments (CLS). Our study examines harmonics in CBPC-based SEPS in two sub-frequency ranges: low-frequency (LF) − 0 to 2 kHz and high-frequency (HF) − 2 kHz to 500 kHz.© 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Using Advanced Metering Infrastructure Data from MV/LV Substations to Minimize Reactive Energy Supply Cost to Final Consumers

This article presents an original methodology to determine the optimal level of reactive energy transmission to low-voltage consumers supplied from MV/LV substations that guarantees the lowest total costs of reactive energy transmission through the DSO network and its generation in receiving installations within the reactive power compensation process. The average value of the optimal factor tgφ to be maintained by customers depends on the efficiency of the network, the characteristics of the load, and the market costs of energy losses due to the transmission of reactive energy through the network that are covered by the DSO and the costs of reactive energy generation in receiving installations. The results presented for real MV/LV substations operating in the Polish distribution network demonstrate the application of annual measurements of active and reactive energy consumed and generated registered by AMI systems to calculate the optimal reactive power compensation level. They can be applied to verify the permissible levels of reactive energy compensation applied by the DSOs until now within the yearly tariffs for customers.

Reactive compensation in distribution systems and volt/var control analysis: Mutual performance of inverters and curve slope effects

The high penetration of photovoltaic distributed generation is causing overvoltage in distribution networks due to the reverse active power flow. Proposals to mitigate this problem through Volt/Var control (VVC) by photovoltaic inverters are being discussed. However, the configuration of the appropriate Volt/Var curve depends on the topological factors of each system. In this context, this paper presents a practical methodology for calculating the reactive compensation of the local VVC. In addition, the impact of the slope of the curve on power quality and the problems of mutual actuation of inverters in the VVC are analyzed. The studies were conducted in quasistatic time series (QSTS) mode on the IEEE 33 bus system. The slope of the curve affects grid losses and the substation power factor, and can mitigate the negative effects of the mutual actuation of the inverters in the VVC. Based on this, guidelines were established to adapt the definition of the slope to the characteristics of each system.

Study on phase selection control characteristics of fast vacuum circuit breakers suitable for new power systems

Abstract With a high proportion of new energy access to the power system, the user side of the randomness and volatility of distributed photovoltaic large-capacity access to the 10 kV medium-voltage distribution grid operation results in more frequent fluctuations in the system voltage and more frequent switching of reactive compensation of the shunt capacitor bank on the 10 kV side of the conventional substation. Conventional reactive compensation switching circuit breakers adopt a spring mechanism whose mechanical stability is insufficient and the selection of the relevant fit capacitor bank accuracy is not enough. The 12 kV fast vacuum circuit breaker of small mechanical dispersion for selection related to the combination was proposed. First of all, based on the neutral grounded and ungrounded system of the capacitor bank, the strategy of capacitor bank phase selection closing was developed. For the action characteristics of the phase selection of the 12 kV fast vacuum circuit breaker, the variation laws of mechanical dispersion and the influence factors such as ambient temperature, capacitance voltage, capacitance degradation, mechanical wear, and conductive rod deformation were obtained by simulation and experiment. The results showed that the ambient temperature and capacitance voltage had a great influence on the switching time of the fast circuit breaker, while other factors had a small influence. Again, the pre-breakdown characteristics of the 12 kV fast vacuum circuit breaker were obtained by experiments. The results showed that the influence of contact opening distance and pre-breakdown voltage was a linear relationship, and the pre-breakdown slope was 30 kV/mm. According to the pre-breakdown closing characteristic curve, the pre-breakdown time of the fast circuit breaker was 0.45 ms at most. The feedforward compensation mechanism based on a neural network was proposed to compensate for the action characteristics of the fast circuit breaker and aimed to improve the phase selection accuracy. Finally, two rounds of capacitive current switching tests of 12 kV fast vacuum circuit breakers with C2 level were carried out in a third-party test station. The accuracy of phase closing is within the ±0.5 ms closing window, effectively preventing the occurrence of closing inrush current.

Self-Adaptive Resonance Technology for Wireless Power Transfer Systems to Eliminate Impedance Mismatches

Impedance mismatching can severely decrease the power transmission capacity or even invalid the control logic of wireless power transfer (WPT) systems. To eliminate the impedance mismatch caused by various factors, such as resonant parameter drift, coupling structure misalignment and control strategy, a self-adaptive mistuning correction circuit and corresponding parameter design rules are proposed to ensure the WPT system consistently operates under resonant state, accompanying the optimal power transfer ability. Moreover, a reactive compensation circuit that can create an auxiliary voltage source by the absorbed reactive power that is introduced by impedance mismatching is designed. This source can generate a new current on the coil to bring the mismatched input current back to the resonant state, according to the current superposition principle. Unlike passive impedance network that require high parameter precision and active impedance matching strategies equipped with detection and control circuits, the proposed approach can self-adaptively eliminate either undesired capacitive or inductive reactance with two additional switches and an energy-storage capacitor, improving impedance adjusting rate and providing better system robustness. The simulations and experiments are in good agreement with the theoretical analysis. This study has potential applications in harsh environments where the system impedance and coupling strength are continuously disturbed.

Advanced Static Var Generator in the Reactive Power Automatic Compensation System of an Underground Mine with a Thyristor Hoisting Machine

In industrial plants with dynamically varying load profiles, the problem of increased charges for over-contracted reactive power consumption is very common. To eliminate these charges, reactive power compensation systems are used. This article presents a case study of an automatic reactive power compensation system in an underground mine where a thyristor hoisting machine is used. To reduce the higher current harmonics of the hoisting machine and compensate for the reactive power of the PCC (Point of Common Coupling), the main reactive power automatic compensation system and an ASVG (Advanced Static Var Generator) with a nonstandard control loop were used. The article considers aspects of the operation of the ASVG, locally with the hoisting machine, and also as a master-controlled device that is part of the reactive power automatic compensation system. This part of the article is based on measurements taken in a mine. The reactive power automatic compensation system considered in this article has been successfully implemented, improving PQ (Power Quality) and eliminating additional overcompensation charges.

Currents’-Physical-Component-Based Reactive Power Compensation Optimization in Three-Phase, Four-Wire Systems

In this paper, we aim to address the limited capacity of compensation devices by enhancing their utilization rate by applying the currents’ physical component (CPC) theory for reactive power optimization in three-phase four-wire systems. When reactive currents cannot be fully compensated for, we propose using CPC theory to generate reference currents for the compensation devices. Weight coefficients associated with different reactive current components are introduced, enabling flexible combinations of these independent current components. The maximum output amplitude of the three-phase current from the compensation device serves as a constraint condition, allowing for the calculation of reference currents under various compensation targets. Additionally, a reactive current optimization compensation scheme focusing on loss reduction is selected. The simulated annealing–particle swarm optimization (SA-PSO) hybrid algorithm is employed to solve the optimization mathematical model. The discussed calculations, current waveforms, and voltage waveforms are generated using the constructed mathematical model and then used for a theoretical explanation. The simulation verifies the feasibility of the proposed method.

Design and Performance Evaluation of a Hybrid Active Power Filter Controller

This paper introduces a novel hybrid filter topology that combines passive and active components to enhance harmonic filtering and resonance damping in electrical power systems. The design integrates a three-phase two-level voltage-source converter with a double-tuned passive filter in parallel, significantly reducing the power rating and operational costs while maintaining good harmonic filtering performance and reactive current compensation. Double-tuned passive filters, compared to single-tuned ones, offer improved harmonic attenuation at multiple frequencies, enhancing overall system efficiency. Moreover, when used with the proposed hybrid filter topology, the double-tuned version allows for even lower dimensions of the active part, thereby further reducing system cost. A state-feedback controller is designed to enhance the performance of the hybrid filter, proving particularly effective in environments with complex impedance conditions. This paper also examines the impact of variations in passive component parameters, demonstrating the design’s robustness against potential deviations expected over the operational lifespan. The results indicate that the hybrid filter effectively mitigates harmonics and maintains operational stability under various transient conditions, as confirmed by analytical and simulation studies on a real industrial network model. These findings underline the hybrid filter’s potential to significantly improve power quality in modern electrical networks.

Reactive Power Optimization in Distribution Networks of New Power Systems Based on Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization

The new power system effectively integrates a large number of distributed renewable energy sources, such as solar photovoltaic, wind energy, small hydropower, and biomass energy. This significantly reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and enhances the sustainability and environmental friendliness of energy supply. Compared to distribution networks in traditional power systems, the new-generation distribution network offers notable advantages in improving energy efficiency, reliability, environmental protection, and system flexibility, but it also faces a series of new challenges. These challenges include potential harmonic issues introduced by the widespread use of power electronic devices (such as inverters for renewable energy generation systems and electric vehicle charging stations) and the voltage fluctuations and flickering caused by the intermittency and uncertainty of renewable energy generation, which may affect the normal operation of electrical equipment. To address these challenges, this study proposes an optimization model aimed at minimizing network losses and voltage deviations, utilizing traditional capacitor adjustments and static var compensators (SVCs) as optimization measures. Furthermore, this study introduces an improved version of the multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm, specifically enhanced to address the unique challenges of reactive power optimization in modern distribution networks. The test results show that this algorithm can effectively generate a large number of Pareto optimal solutions. The application of this algorithm on a 33-node network case study demonstrates its advantages in reactive power optimization. The optimization results highlight the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed improved algorithm in the application of distribution network reactive power optimization, offering users a uniform and diverse range of reactive compensation solutions.

Common-Ground-Type Inverter With Dynamic Boosting and Reactive Compensation for Grid

Common-Ground-Type Inverter With Dynamic Boosting and Reactive Compensation for Grid

Compensation of Budeanu’s Reactive and Complemented Reactive Currents in Extended Budeanu Theory in 3-Phase 4-Wire Systems Powered by Symmetrical Nonsinusoidal Voltage Source

The result of continuous efforts in the development of power theory, Budeanu’s power theory was successfully extended. The mathematical description that has been proposed is based on another concept, namely the Currents’ Physical Components (CPC) theory. With CPC theory, it was possible to describe, in the original Budeanu theory, the components of the load current, including the Budeanu distortion current. The Budeanu distortion current can have a maximum of five components associated with different physical phenomena and related to the equivalent parameters of the load. This article discusses passive compensation, which provides compensation for the Budeanu reactive current and the Budeanu complemented reactive current due to the known equivalent load parameters associated with the reactance elements. In addition, the article refers to a very important aspect when determining the parameters of a passive compensator, i.e., choosing parameters in such a way that the compensator simultaneously compensates for the reactive current and the unbalanced current. The article presents five methods relating to the determination of compensator parameters. Two methods are related to the reactive current compensation only for the first harmonic without affecting the unbalanced current. The next three methods relate to the compensation of the Budeanu reactive current and the consideration of the unbalanced current. Calculations and simulations were performed for all five methods, the results of which are presented and analyzed in this publication. The Matlab/Simulink R2023a environment was used as the calculation and simulation software.

A Fractional-Order Archimedean Spiral Moth–Flame Optimization Strategy to Solve Optimal Power Flows

This research utilizes the innovative fractional-order Archimedean spiral moth–flame optimization (FO-AMFO) technique to address the issues of the optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) problem. The formulated fitness function aims to minimize power losses and determine the ideal flow of reactive power for the IEEE 30- and 57-bus test systems. The extensive functions of the fractional evolutionary computing strategy are utilized to address the minimization problem of ORPD. This involves determining the control variables, such as VAR compensators, bus voltages, and the tap setting of the transformers. The effective incorporation of reactive compensation devices into traditional power grids has greatly reduced power losses; however, it has resulted in an increase in the complexity of optimization problems. A comparison of the findings indicates that swarming fractional intelligence using FO-AMFO surpassed the state-of-the-art competitors in terms of minimizing power losses.

Research on Energy Performance Contracting mode of demand-side reactive power compensation

Demand-side reactive power compensation achieves the purpose of saving energy and protecting the environment by improving the efficiency of electricity consumption and optimizing the way of electricity consumption, reducing electricity consumption and power demand while completing the same power consumption function. However, some users are facing the problems of insufficient funds and immature technical means, and cannot independently carry out demand-side reactive compensation. This paper proposes the demand-side reactive power compensation Energy Performance Contracting model, describes in detail the participants and operation modes in this mode, and uses Shapley value theory to distribute the benefits between the energy-saving service company and the user, and obtains the preliminary revenue distribution scheme. Three factors, namely the proportion of input, risk sharing and negotiating position, were adopted to revise it, and revised again in combination with the degree of implementation contribution to make the distribution of benefits more scientific and reasonable.

Power Quality Analysis and Improvements in a Hot Rolling Mill using a STATCOM

This paper presents an analysis of the electric power flows in a hot rolling mill plant using a power quality analyzer and developing simulation models with Matlab Simulink. The model inputs have been taken from process data by the process computer of the plant. A STATCOM with a control strategy based on the d-q coordinates is used as solution to improve the reactive compensation as well as to minimize the voltage fluctuations and sags effect. The overall electric model has been simulated with the STATCOM to check the improvement in the voltage stability and the consumption.

A Case Study of Transient and Dynamic Performance of Saturated Core Reactor Static Var Compensator

This paper presents results related to transient, dynamic and steady state response of a Saturated Core Reactor Static VAr Compensator (SCR-SVC) at regulating a real radial 230 kV transmission line supplying a low density and highly distributed load in a developing area of Brazil. The studies are carried out using a time domain computational simulator in which a comprehensive model for a given twin-triple saturated reactor compensator model was implemented to cope with the receiving end load requirements for voltage regulation. Investigations are then performed to highlight the overall system and reactive compensator behavior at the occurrence of the reactor switch on conditions, final load relief and harmonic distortions.