Solution of Electromagnetic Compatibility problem in electrical power network using the Finite Element Method

In overall expansion of power distribution and sub-transmission (10 kV – 110 kV) networks, conditioned with growing consumption of electrical power, there is an increasing of possibility for crossing underground power cables with home electrical installation cables, telecommunication equipment cables and other equipment. Furthermore, surge arresters on middle-voltage levels usually are not applied along overhead lines. Above mentioned can affect on equipment or even human life safety. It is known that interference of the different electrical installations and equipment is the main theme of researching in Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC). In this article, a possibility of using the Finite Element Method (FEM) for EMC calculations in practice, is explored and presented. For that purpose, a real problem from distribution power network will be used for an illustrative example. It is worth of mentioning that FEM technique is quite a new tool in power networks calculations area.