Static VAR Compensation

Introduction

The Static VAR Compensator (SVC) is a device of the Flexible AC Transmission

Systems (FACTS) family using power electronics to control power flow on power grids.
The SVC regulates voltage at its terminal by controlling the amount of reactive power
injected into or absorbed from the power system. When system voltage is low, the SVC
generates reactive power (SVC capacitive). When system voltage is high, it absorbs
reactive power (SVC inductive). The variation of reactive power is performed by
switching three-phase capacitor banks and inductor banks connected on the secondary
side of a coupling transformer. Each capacitor bank is switched on and off by three
thyristor switches (Thyristor Switched Capacitor or TSC). Reactors are either switched
on-off (Thyristor Switched Reactor or TSR) or phase controlled (Thyristor Controlled
Reactor or TCR).

A static VAR compensator is a set of electrical devices for providing fast-

acting reactive power on high-voltage electricity transmission networks. SVCs are part of
the flexible AC transmission system device family, regulating voltage, power factor,
harmonics and stabilizing the system. A static VAR compensator has no significant
moving parts (other than internal switchgear). Prior to the invention of the SVC, power
factor compensation was the preserve of large rotating machines such as synchronous
condensers or switched capacitor banks.

Principle

The SVC is an automated impedance matching device, designed to bring the system
closer to unity power factor. SVCs are used in two main situations:

 Connected to the power system, to regulate the transmission voltage ("transmission

SVC")
 Connected near large industrial loads, to improve power quality ("industrial SVC")

In transmission applications, the SVC is used to regulate the grid voltage. If the
power system's reactive load is capacitive (leading), the SVC will use thyristor controlled
reactors to consume VARs from the system, lowering the system voltage.
Under inductive (lagging) conditions, the capacitor banks are automatically switched in,
thus providing a higher system voltage. By connecting the thyristor-controlled reactor,
which is continuously variable, along with a capacitor bank step, the net result is
continuously variable leading or lagging power.

In industrial applications, SVCs are typically placed near high and rapidly varying loads,
such as arc furnaces, where they can smooth flicker voltage.

Typically an SVC comprises one or more banks of fixed or switched

shunt capacitors or reactors, of which at least one bank is switched by thyristors.
Elements which may be used to make an SVC typically include

Why Compensation Techniques are used in Power system?

Power System network consist of three kinds of powers, namely, active,

reactive and apparent power. Active power is the useful or true power that performs
a useful work in the system or load.

Reactive power is caused entirely by energy storage components and the

losses due to reactive power may be considerable, although reactive power is not
consumed by the loads.

The presence of reactive power reduces the capability of delivering the active power by
the transmission lines. And the apparent power is the combination of active and reactive
power.

In order to achieve maximum active power transmission, the reactive power must be
compensated. This compensation is necessary for

 Improving the voltage regulation

 Increasing system stability
 Reducing the losses associated with the system
 Improving the power factor
 Better utilization of machines connected to the system
The compensation techniques of the power system supplies the inductive or capacitive
reactive power (to its particular limits) in order to improve the quality and efficiency of
the power transmission system. The following are the two popular compensation
techniques used in power system.

Shunt Compensation

In this type of reactive power compensation, various compensation or FACTS

devices (which can be either switched or controlled) are connected in parallel to the
transmission lines at particular nodes.

These devices inject the current into the lines so that the reactive component of
the load current is compensated thereby the losses are reduced and voltage
regulation is improved.

The types of shunt compensation devices include static synchronous compensator

(STATCOM) and static VAR compensator (SVC).
Series compensation

In this, various compensation or FACTS devices (which can be either switched or

controlled) are connected in series with the transmission lines at particular nodes. This
compensation will give more control of power flow through the line and also improves the
dynamic stability limit of the power system.

Mostly, capacitors are installed in series with the lines. The amount of compensation is
varied by installing several capacitor banks in series with the lines. This is achieved by
thyristors controlled series capacitors. Thyristor controlled switched capacitors (TCSC) and
fixed series capacitor (FSC) techniques are widely used for series compensation.

Types
 Thyristor-controlled reactor (TCR), where the reactor may be air- or iron-cored

 Thyristor-switched capacitor (TSC)

 Harmonic filter(s)
 Mechanically switched capacitors or reactors (switched by a circuit breaker)
 One-line diagram of a typical SVC configuration; here employing a thyristor-controlled
reactor, a thyristor-switched capacitor, a harmonic filter, a mechanically switched capacitor and a
mechanically switched reactor

By means of phase angle modulation switched by the thyristors, the reactor may be
variably switched into the circuit and so provide a continuously variable VAR injection (or
absorption) to the electrical network. [2] In this configuration, coarse voltage control is provided
by the capacitors; the thyristor-controlled reactor is to provide smooth control. Smoother control
and more flexibility can be provided with thyristor-controlled capacitor switching.

Thyristor-controlled reactor

In an electric power transmission system, a thyristor-controlled reactor (TCR) is

a reactance connected in series with a bidirectional thyristor valve. The thyristor valve is phase-
controlled, which allows the value of delivered reactive power to be adjusted to meet varying
system conditions. Thyristor-controlled reactors can be used for limiting voltage rises on lightly
loaded transmission lines. Another device which used to be used for this purpose is
a magnetically controlled reactor (MCR), a type of magnetic amplifier otherwise known as
a transductor.

In parallel with series connected reactance and thyristor valve, there may also be a
capacitor bank, which may be permanently connected or which may use mechanical or thyristor
switching. The combination is called a static VAR compensator

Circuit diagram

Thyristor controlled reactor is usually a three-phase assembly, normally connected in a

delta arrangement to provide partial cancellation of harmonics. Often the main TCR reactor is
split into two halves, with te thhyristor valve connected between the two halves. This protects the
vulnerable thyristor valve from damage due to flashovers, lightning strikes etc.

Thyristor-switched capacitor
A thyristor-switched capacitor (TSC) is a type of equipment used for
compensating reactive power in electrical power systems. It consists of a
power capacitor connected in series with a bidirectional thyristor valve and, usually, a current
limiting reactor (inductor). The thyristor switched capacitor is an important component of
a Static VAR Compensator (SVC),[1][2] where it is often used in conjunction with a thyristor
controlled reactor (TCR). Static VAR compensators are a member of the Flexible AC
transmission system (FACTS) family.

Circuit diagram

A TSC is usually a three-phase assembly, connected either in a delta or a star

arrangement. Unlike the TCR, a TSC generates no harmonics and so requires no filtering. For
this reason, some SVCs have been built with only TSCs . [3] This can lead to a relatively cost-
effective solution where the SVC only requires capacitive reactive power, although a
disadvantage is that the reactive power output can only be varied in steps. Continuously variable
reactive power output is only possible where the SVC contains a TCR or another variable
element such as a STATCOM.

What is Harmonic Filter?

A device that is used to mitigate, reduce harmonics to acceptable ranges in a power
system is known as a harmonic filter. This harmonic filter is used at strategic operating circuit
points for eliminating or reducing harmonic distortion and resonance. Generally, harmonic
distortion can be caused due to excess currents in & out of appliances.

Harmonic filter avoids huge amounts of harmonics from equipment damage, reduces
operation & reduces operating costs. So these are used in different industries like HVAC, oil,
gas, mining, wastewater to avoid components damage or utility providers fines.

The harmonic filter can be designed with a set of different electronic components like resistors,
capacitors, inductors for preventing unnecessary harmonic currents, transmitting them to earth.
These filters are mainly designed for preventing specific frequency harmonics.

Working Principle
The harmonic filter working principle is to decrease distortion through deflecting
harmonic currents within less-impedance lanes. These filters are capacitive at the basic
frequency, so used to generate the reactive power necessary through converters & also for
correction of power factor.
Harmonic Filter Types
Generally, harmonics filters are classified into different types based on the voltage
applied, rated power, 1-phase or 3-phases & other different parameters which depend on the
load. These are very effective filters that protect expensive electrical equipment from excess
power because of harmonics.
There are two types of harmonic filters like active and passive. The major difference
between these two is the components used while designing the filter. The active harmonic filter
uses active components like ICs, BJTs, IGBTs & MOSFETs whereas the passive harmonic filter
uses different passive components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
Active Harmonic Filters
Active filters are very easy to switch the harmonics of the power line without depending
on the reactive power of the basic frequency. These filters use an outstanding technique
wherever the filter utilizes self-generated harmonic components & infuses this into the power
line to cancel the unnecessary harmonics.
As compared to active filters, passive harmonic filters eliminate harmonics very easily
within the power line but, its design is very difficult. So the designer should design these filters
based on the requirements of reactive power for the load. So in that condition, passive filter
design is not easy and it causes poor power actor operation for specific load conditions.
Active filters are available using various topologies to remove the harmonics within the
power line. The following steps need to consider while designing an active harmonic filter.
 This filter uses different types of semiconductor switches that need the power to function.
 Voltage source inverter with different power switches
 Sampling & control reference using the power line
 PWM system as harmonics injects PWM firing signal into the power system.
Passive Harmonic Filters
Passive harmonic filters are easily available and most frequently used. These filters
utilize typical passive components like capacitors, resistors, etc to make a tank circuit. This
circuit is mainly designed in such a way to operate at a similar resonance frequency as compared
to the unnecessary harmonics.
 These filters block the unnecessary harmonics to supply and it changes the harmonic
current supply into the temperature & defends the end load or device. There are four types of
passive harmonic filters used like high pass filter, series filter, c type filter, and bandpass filter.

Harmonic Filter in Capacitor Bank

Power factor correction needs a design to compensate reactive power demand & inject
harmonic currents through the equipment into the power supply system. Generally, power supply
systems in industries include a capacitor bank & an arrangement of tuned filters. Analysis of
communication between harmonic filters & capacitor banks in the power supply system of the
industry is carried out.
Actually, capacitor banks are components for the harmonic filters, so when someone is
using capacitor banks to enhance the power factor, it’s a good thing to provide in some coils &
now he has a Harmonic Filter particularly for the neutral and it is extremely good.

The harmonic filter with capacitor bank is widely called a high voltage power capacitor
bank. So, this equipment mainly includes 3-phase all film power & capacitors with surge
protection. These equipment are enclosed or open, low or high power, fixed power, incorporated
or for utilize with separate motors. With the compensation of reactive power system, power
factor (PF) can be enhanced & harmonics are covered up to reduce electricity bill through
convincing payback stage.
Harmonic Filter Circuit Diagram
The circuit diagram of the bandpass harmonic filter circuit is shown below. This filter is
one of the passive harmonic filters types. This is a double-tuned type harmonic filter that can be
designed with a single resistor, two capacitors & two inductors. This filter is mainly used for
harmonic filtration purposes with high order.
This working of this filter can be done by merging the typical bandpass filter’s parallel resonance
through the series resonance of the RL circuit.
 In the above circuit diagram, a fundamental bandpass filter circuit is given. This circuit
includes two parts. In the primary part of the circuit, a “C2’ capacitor & ‘L2’ inductor are
connected in a series connection whereas in the next part, an inductor, a resistor & a capacitor
are allied in parallel connection. Both the parts are also connected within the series connection.
In the above diagram, the impedance characteristics including the frequency are illustrated.
Advantages
The advantages of harmonic filters include the following.
 These filters are used to reduce harmonics within a power system
 It enhances the power supply flow
 These filters provide the best results to maintain the system safe
 These filters provide energy efficiency to keep the life of the power system safe
 It decreases power bills through harmonics controlling within the power supply.
 Active harmonic filters assist you to make the highest power supply consumption.
 These filters offer many advantages in a single system. As compared to active filters, hybrid
filters are not expensive and it provides a combined advantage of both the filters like active &
passive.
 Maintenance costs can be reduced while connecting active filters
 Hybrid harmonic type filters are used to offer power factor development & harmonic
correction.
The latest advancements in Static Var Compensation (SVC) technology
include the following:

 High-frequency inverters: The use of high-frequency inverters in SVCs has increased

the efficiency and reliability of the systems.
 Digital Control: The use of digital control systems has improved the accuracy and speed
of voltage regulation, allowing for real-time monitoring and control of the transmission
line voltage.
 Advanced Control Algorithms: The development of advanced control algorithms has
allowed for better integration of SVCs with other power system components and
improved overall system performance.
 Use of Renewable Energy Sources: The integration of SVCs with renewable energy
sources, such as wind and solar power, has become increasingly common, allowing for
improved voltage regulation in these systems.
 Compact and Lightweight Designs: Advances in technology have led to the development
of more compact and lightweight SVCs, making them easier to install and maintain.
Advantages
 Stability Improved Voltage: SVCs provide improved voltage stability by regulating the
voltage of the transmission line, ensuring that it remains within the specified range.
 Improved Power Quality: By maintaining stable voltage levels, SVCs improve the
quality of power supplied to consumers, reducing the incidence of voltage dips, flickers,
and other power quality issues.
 Increased Power Transfer Capacity: By controlling the reactive power flow, SVCs allow
for increased power transfer capacity in transmission lines, making the most efficient use
of existing infrastructure.
 Better Integration of Renewable Energy Sources: SVCs can be used to integrate
 renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, into the electrical grid,
providing improved voltage regulation and stability in these systems.
 Fast Response Time: SVCs have a fast response time, allowing them to quickly respond
to changes in load conditions and maintain stable voltage levels.
 Cost-effective Solution: SVCs provide a cost-effective solution for improving voltage
stability and power quality, as they do not require significant physical upgrades to the
transmission system.
 Improved Voltage Stability: SVCs provide improved voltage stability by regulating the
voltage of the transmission line, ensuring that it remains within the specified range.
 Improved Power Quality: By maintaining stable voltage levels, SVCs improve the
quality of power supplied to consumers, reducing the incidence of voltage dips, flickers,
and other power quality issues.
 Increased Power Transfer Capacity: By controlling the reactive power flow, SVCs
allow for increased power transfer capacity in transmission lines, making the most
efficient use of existing infrastructure.
 Better Integration of Renewable Energy Sources: SVCs can be used to integrate
renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, into the electrical grid,
providing improved voltage regulation and stability in these systems.
 Fast Response Time: SVCs have a fast response time, allowing them to quickly respond
to changes in load conditions and maintain stable voltage levels.
 Cost-effective Solution: SVCs provide a cost-effective solution for improving voltage
stability and power quality, as they do not require significant physical upgrades to the
transmission system.

The Future scope of Static Var Compensation (SVC) technology includes:

  Integration with Smart Grid Technology: SVCs are likely to be integrated with smart grid
technology, allowing for real-time monitoring and control of the transmission line
voltage.
 Increased Use of Renewable Energy Sources: With the increasing use of renewable
energy sources, such as wind and solar power, the demand for SVCs to regulate voltage
levels in these systems is expected to increase.
 Improved Energy Efficiency: Advances in SVC technology are likely to result in
increased energy efficiency, reducing energy loss and greenhouse gas emissions.
 Increased Reliability: The development of more advanced control algorithms and high-
frequency inverters is expected to result in increased reliability of SVCs, reducing
downtime and maintenance costs.
 Decentralized Energy Systems: SVCs are expected to play a key role in decentralized
energy systems, allowing for the efficient transfer of power between different parts of the
grid.

Overall, the future of SVC technology is focused on improving the efficiency, reliability,
and stability of the electrical power system, making it better equipped to meet the growing
demands of a rapidly evolving energy landscape.