
The installation of a STATCOM (Static Synchronous Compensator) involves several key steps, including site assessment, design, equipment setup, testing, and commissioning. Below is a detailed guide on the installation process:
Voltage Level: Determine if the STATCOM will be installed at distribution (11 kV, 33 kV) or transmission (132 kV, 230 kV, 400 kV) level.
Location:
Near a substation for grid support.
Close to wind/solar farms for reactive power compensation.
Industrial plants with voltage flicker issues.
Footprint & Space: STATCOMs require space for:
Power converters (VSC-based)
Cooling system (air/water-cooled)
Step-up transformer (if needed)
Control room & protection panels
Reactive Power Requirement: Calculate based on load flow studies.
STATCOM Rating: Choose between ±50 MVA, ±100 MVA, etc.
Topology: Voltage-Sourced Converter (VSC) with IGBT/GTO switches.
Control Strategy: Decide between voltage regulation, power factor correction, or damping oscillations.
Foundation & Enclosure Setup
Reinforced concrete base for heavy equipment.
Weatherproof enclosure for outdoor installation.
Cabling & Busbar Connections
Connect STATCOM to the grid via coupling transformer (if needed).
Install AC/DC cables and grounding system.
Cooling System Installation
Air-cooled: Fans & heat sinks.
Liquid-cooled: Pipes & heat exchangers (for high-power STATCOMs).
Power Electronics (VSC Module)
Mount IGBT-based converters in racks.
Connect DC capacitors.
Step-up Transformer (if required)
Matches STATCOM output to grid voltage.
Harmonic Filters (Optional)
Reduces high-frequency switching harmonics.
Protection & Control Panels
Install relays, circuit breakers, and SCADA interface.
PLC/DSP Controller: For fast reactive power response.
SCADA Integration: Remote monitoring & control.
Synchronization: Ensure STATCOM matches grid frequency/phase.
Insulation resistance test (Megger test).
Cable continuity & polarity verification.
Cooling system functionality test.
No-Load Test
Verify control logic without grid connection.
Reactive Power Injection Test
Check capacitive (voltage boost) & inductive (voltage dip) modes.
Dynamic Response Test
Simulate grid disturbances (e.g., sudden load changes).
Gradually connect to the grid.
Verify voltage stabilization performance.
Obtain utility approval for full operation.
Maintenance: Regular inspection of cooling systems, capacitors, and IGBTs.
Monitoring: Use SCADA to track performance & detect faults.
Upgrades: Future expansion (e.g., adding battery storage for hybrid STATCOM).
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