High Voltage Substation Equipment
“In the High Voltage Substation Equipment research department, we respond to the constraints of DC networks whilst respecting the environment.”
Marie-Hélène Luton, Department Director – High Voltage Substation Equipment
We develop substation technologies to respond to the constraints of future DC networks as well as those of current AC networks. This includes using circuit breakers to clear fault currents from meshed DC networks, as well as developing interconnection nodes to transfer energy. Our circuit breaker technologies and protection strategies are designed to reduce the cost of infrastructure and preserve the stability and availability of the network.
Gas-insulated switchgear is essential to networks, yet it is currently highly dependent on sulphur hexafluoride gas (SF6) – at the top of the list of greenhouse gasses – as the insulating medium. We study, model and optimise alternatives for gas-insulated switchgear. In addition, we research and implement new solid and gas insulation systems to provide enhanced electrical performance and resilience whilst maintaining low environmental impact.
To validate performance, we rely on SuperGrid Institute’s dielectric and power test laboratories. The characterisation platform enables us to define insulating material properties.
Our research projects include:
Recent publications
DC Short-Circuit Tests of a 50 kV Resistive Superconducting Fault Current Limiter
DC short-circuit tests validate a 50 kV resistive superconducting fault current limiter (RSFCL) for HVDC and MTDC protection.
FEPPCON XII: Sustainable Power Electronics Technology
This paper explores Sustainable Power Electronics and the challenges of reducing material use, environmental impact and end-of-life waste. It highlights the importance of life-cycle thinking, circular economy principles and improved environmental data for designing future power electronic systems.
Electric Field Measurement in Gas-Solid Insulation System under Lightning Impulse
Electric field measurements in a gas-solid insulation system under lightning impulse improve understanding of surface and space charge effects on insulation performance.
