Low-frequency electromagnetic environment in high-voltage converter and static VAR compensator stations

The functional principle of power electronic systems as used for high voltage direct current transmission schemes or for static VAR compensators, leads to significant low frequency electric and magnetic fields in the station area as well as in its vicinity. Beside their impact on technical systems these field strength levels have to be assessed with respect to human exposure as well. The paper describes the field sources to be considered in the relevant frequency range and shows an approach to determine the field strength amplitudes by means of numerical simulations. The procedure is demonstrated for practical installations. Typical levels for both magnetic and electric fields are presented to be expected for areas inside and outside the stations. The numerical results are verified by means of practical measurements during the test operation of a power factor compensation station.