Validation of on-line power dynamics measurements

As HV power transmission systems are increasingly stressed by growing commercial and environmental pressures, a tool is needed to provide on-line estimates of dynamic characteristics. Such a tool must provide reliable estimates of inter-area mode damping, and must be easy to use in a control room environment, allowing control engineers to take remedial actions. Over the last four years, Scottish Power has been evaluating a Psymetrix Power Dynamics Monitor (PDM) which provides on-line estimates of dynamic parameters for a 400 kV interconnector. Validation issues that need to be addressed are discussed and some validation tests of the PDM are reported. Results of plant ringdown testing, used for system dynamic analysis, are reported for a series of tests on the Scottish Power network and compared with results obtained from the PDM. The analysis technology incorporated in the PDM benefits the transmission industry by improving the performance of existing transmission resources and providing cost-effective security monitoring