Computer simulation tools aid analysis of power network
Simulation tools employed to study power systems continue to evolve and this evolution allows engineers to analyze an increasing number of applications.
The analysis of transient phenomena in the power networks allows the design of solutions for those disturbances. Virtual simulation of any real system can be implemented provided proper mathematical models of the physical system are available. If all elements of the system are considered and modelled precisely, the simulation output will be identical to the response of the real system.
However, building precise models of sophisticated pieces of equipment is challenging. Simulation tools such as Power Systems Computer-Aided Design (PSCAD) provide comprehensive libraries of power system models.
The performance of these models have been validated against recorded field data confirming PSCAD’s ac and dc system simulation results replicate the transient performance of the physical system.
PSCAD applications include wind energy systems, power electronic design (HVDC and FACTS), power quality studies, control systems design and optimisaation, and protection system validation studies.
Many of the world major manufacturers (Siemens, ABB) routinely supply the PSCAD models for their proprietary component models enabling power engineers to fully study systems including newly implemented equipment. PSCAD – a powerful tool for the power engineer.
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Manitoba HVDC Research Centre Inc is based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. www.hvdc.ca
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