INTRODUCTION
FACTS devices are a type of power electronic-based systems designed to boost the
controllability and flexibility of AC power transmission systems. These devices play an
integral role in improving the efficiency, stability, and reliability of power grids. Various
FACTS devices are designed to serve special purposes in power system operation. Some of
the main types include the following: The static Var compensator is a shunt-connected
FACTS device used to regulate reactive power flow by changing the impedance or
admittance of the connected transmission line . It assists in voltage regulation and power
factor correction and helps dampen power oscillations.
Power compensation that can be active or reactive is a very important aspect of modern
power system, aiming to improve system stability, voltage regulation, and overall power
quality. Among various techniques for reactive power compensation, STATCOM stands out
as a unique important and efficient solution.
The need for power compensation that can be active or reactive arises from the inherent
nature of AC systems that reactive power flows occur due to the presence of inductive and
capacitive elements in the transmission lines and loads. Although reactive power does not
contribute to actual power transmission, it is essential for maintaining voltage levels and
ensuring proper functioning of electrical equipment. Without proper compensation, power
systems can experience voltage instability, voltage sags, and increased losses.
STATCOM is essentially a power electronics-based device that dynamically and precisely
controls the flow of reactive power in AC power transmission systems. Unlike traditional
compensation methods such as shunt and synchronous capacitors, STATCOM provides fast
response and continuous adjustment of reactive power support, making it ideal for modern
power grids and renewable energy sources with varying loads.
CHAPTER 1
Reactive Power
Reactive power stands as a critical element in alternating current (AC) electrical next
to active power. While active power directly executes tasks like illuminating bulbs or driving
motors, reactive power becomes necessary for initializing and sustaining the magnetic fields
crucial for the operation of inductive appliances such as motors and transformers. Although
reactive power doesn't carry out any practical work itself, it aids in the transfer of active
power across the power network.
Voltage Regulation : Reactive power is beneficial in controlling voltage levels within
electrical frameworks. Variations in reactive power might result in voltage fluctuations,
which can negatively impact the functionality and efficiency of electrical tools. Through
effective management of reactive power, voltage levels can be maintained within acceptable
boundaries.
System Stability : The stability of the power grid heavily relies on reactive power.
Insufficient reactive power support can lead to voltage instability, voltage collapse, and even
power outages. Through compensating for reactive power deficiencies, the system's stability
can be enhanced, ensuring reliable operations.
Compensation Techniques
Electrical systems can be reactive power compensated in a number of ways. These
methods seek to produce or absorb reactive power in response to changes in voltage levels,
enhance power factor, and maintain system stability.:
Shunt compensation
An inductive load, a transmission line, and a voltage source V1 make up the electrical system
shown in Figure 1.1. Reactive power is needed for the inductive load to operate properly, and
the system does not provide it without any compensation. As a result, the machine's and the
transmission lines' current flow increases as the load consumes reactive power from the
power source.
The link between voltage and current in the system is shown by the phasor diagrams. It is
evident that the load is inductive as the active current Ip and the load voltage V2 are in phase.
This suggests that in order for the load to function at its best, reactive power must be
provided.
Voltage source compensation:: A voltage source is added in parallel with the load to supply
reactive power. Because reactive power is located closer to the load, it lowers total
transmission line currents, hence lowering power losses. The benefits are significant; power
management has significantly improved as a result of the effectiveness.
Current Source compensation: Similar to voltage source correction, a current source can be
added in parallel with the load to provide reactive power. by making sure reactive power is
injected straight into the load, in an effort to reduce the need for excessive reactive power
flow along the transmission line. Reactive power issues are a major concern for power
systems overall, and it helps to reduce them.
Series compensation
Figure shows how series charging, which is employed similarly to shunt charging,
may be controlled by either voltage or current. However, series compensation mostly
employs capacitors, which is a good thing, as opposed to shunt compensation, which may
balance many components. By putting a voltage, V\_Comp, between the line and the load, the
angle of V\_2^I, which represents the voltage on the load side, is altered using this method.
Power can undoubtedly integrate at V2 if V_Comp's amplitude is appropriately controlled.
Essentially, the process of serial charging serves to adjust the voltage at the load by providing
a compensating voltage, which in turn helps to attain unity power at V2. This is not the same
as series compensation; shunt compensation is more focused on balancing components
Series compensation is crucial to electrical engineering because it boosts power
transmission efficiency through a number of techniques. Through altering the transmission
lines' impedance properties, series compensation improves voltage control, reduces voltage
drop, and boosts power transfer capacity.
FACTS devices
Energy transmission networks now have a great deal of flexibility because to the
development of devices called FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission System) devices. The
purpose of these power electronics-based solutions is to increase the flexibility and
controllability of AC power transmission networks. FACTS devices are necessary to increase
power system stability, scale power transfer capabilities, and streamline reactive and voltage
power regulation.
1. SVC : SVCs are devices that are connected to the shunt side of AC power systems that
control voltage and reactive power using power electronics.
Reactive power compensation's precision and speed form the basis of SVCs, enhancing
power quality and voltage level stability. Reactive power compensation employs a mix of
reactors and capacitors, powered by thyristors or comparable semiconductor devices.
2. Statcom : The STATCOM is a different kind of shunt-connected FACTS device that keeps
voltage regulation and reactive power stable. STATCOMs differ from SVCs in that they use
voltage source converters (VSCs) to either supply or absorb reactive power. well-known for
their fast reaction times and stringent reactive power and voltage regulation, which makes
them ideal for providing dynamic compensation and fortifying the grid.
3. SSSC : In AC power systems, series-linked devices called SSSCs are crucial for regulating
power flow and transmission line impedance. The basic architecture consists of voltage
source converters (VSCs) coupled in series with the transmission line. SSSCs apply reactive
power control to optimize power flow and modify line impedance.
4. UPFC : UPFCs offer a full understanding by combining shunt and series compensation
[Link] of a combination of SVC and SSSC components under shared
controller [Link] the ability to manage voltage, reactive power, and line
impedance all at once, allowing the power system to have precisely controlled power flow
and voltage profiles.
5. TCSC : TCSCs are series-connected FACTS devices that use thyristor-governed
capacitors to adjust the transmission line's effective reactance.
TCSCs regulate power flow and voltage balance in the transmission network by adjusting the
capacitive reactance in real time.