Case Study: Eletrobras Furnas improves HVdc reliability with SEL's harmonic protection solution

Cool Solution Solves Brazil's Heat Challenges

Eletrobras Furnas, a Brazilian power utility, faced a significant challenge at its HVdc converter station where it could not accurately measure the heat generated by harmonic currents. This lack of precision in its overload protection scheme, which used root-mean-square measurements, put equipment at risk and threatened the stability of the Brazilian power grid. They turned to Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) to find a solution.

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) developed a custom solution using SELogic control equations within SEL-734 Revenue Meters and SEL-451 Protection Relays. This new system could separate and calculate load levels at different harmonic frequencies to measure heat generation accurately. The results provided reliable overcurrent protection, ensuring smooth harmonic filtration and the stable, continuous transmission of energy crucial for millions of households.

Eletrobras Furnas