I.

Intro

A. Overview

-Over-voltages are occurrences where the voltage in a power system exceeds its normal or rated level.
They can be transient, lasting for a few microseconds, or longer-term, persisting for several cycles of the
power frequency. Over-voltages can be detrimental to electrical equipment and the stability of the
power system. Here’s a brief overview

A.1 Transient Over-Voltage

These are sudden, short-duration increases in voltage caused by events such as lightning strikes or
switching operations. They can result in insulation failure, equipment damage, and other operational
issues.

A.2 Temporary Over Voltages

These occur for a longer duration than transients and are often caused by faults in the power system,
such as a short circuit or ground fault. They can lead to thermal stress on equipment and degradation of
insulation.

A.3 Sustained Over Voltages

Sustained over-voltages are prolonged increases in voltage above the normal operating level, which can
last from several cycles to minutes or longer. Unlike transient over-voltages, which are brief and can be
caused by events like lightning strikes, sustained over-voltages often result from operational issues
within the power system.

B. Importance of Understanding Internal Causes

B. 1
System Protection: Identifying internal causes allows for the design of protective measures that can
prevent over-voltage conditions from occurring, thereby safeguarding the electrical system from
potential damage.

B.2

Operational Efficiency: By understanding and mitigating internal over-voltage causes, power systems can
operate more efficiently, reducing the risk of unscheduled outages and improving the overall reliability
of the electricity supply.

B.3

Cost Savings: Preventing over-voltage related damages can lead to significant cost savings by avoiding
expensive repairs or replacement of electrical equipment and minimizing downtime.

B.4

Safety: Over-voltage can pose serious safety risks to both personnel and the public. Understanding its
causes is crucial for ensuring a safe working environment an preventing accidents.

B.5

Regulatory Compliance: Power systems must adhere to certain standards and regulations.
Understanding internal over-voltage causes is necessary to meet these requirements and avoid
penalties.

B.6

Research and Development: Knowledge of internal over-voltage phenomena can drive innovation in the
development of new technologies and equipment designed to handle these events more effectively.

In summary, a thorough understanding of internal over-voltage causes is fundamental to the resilience

and safety of power systems, as well as to the economic efficiency and regulatory compliance of energy
providers.
II. Understanding of Over-Voltages

A.1 Definition and Characteristics

°Sudden Voltage Spikes

- often manifest as sudden and temporary increases in voltage levels beyond the safe operating range.
These spikes can occur due to lightning strikes, power grid switching, or equipment malfunctions. The
rapid rise in voltage can stress electronic components and insulation, potentially leading to their failure.

°Ability to Damage the Equipment

- One of the primary characteristics of overvoltages is their ability to cause damage to electrical and
electronic equipment. When voltage levels exceed the designed tolerances of devices, components such
as semiconductors, capacitors, and integrated circuits can be permanently damaged or destroyed. This
can result in costly repairs or replacements.

°Insulation Breakdown

-Overvoltages pose a significant risk of causing insulation breakdown within electrical systems.
Insulation materials, such as wires, cables, and insulation layers in electronic devices, are designed to
withstand specific voltage levels. When subjected to overvoltages, the insulation may fail, leading to
short circuits, arcing, and electrical fires. This breakdown can compromise the safety and reliability of
the entire electrical system.

°Electrical Fire

-Overvoltages increase the risk of electrical fires by causing overheating and arcing within electrical
components and wiring. When voltage levels exceed the safe limits, excessive heat can be generated,
especially at points of poor electrical contact or in areas with compromised insulation. This heat can
ignite nearby combustible materials, leading to potentially devastating fires.

III. INTERNAL CAUSES OF OVER VOLTAGES

A. INSULATION FAILURE

1. AGING OF INSULATION MATERIAL

-Over time, insulation materials used in electrical systems can degrade due to factors such as exposure
to heat, moisture, and mechanical stress. As insulation ages, its ability to withstand voltage decreases,
increasing the likelihood of insulation failure and overvoltages. Aging insulation may develop cracks,
voids, or other defects that compromise its effectiveness, leading to electrical breakdown and potential
equipment damage.

2. Overheating
- Excessive heat within electrical systems can accelerate the degradation of insulation materials, making
them more prone to failure. Overheating can occur due to factors such as overloading of circuits, poor
ventilation, or high ambient temperatures. When insulation is subjected to prolonged periods of
elevated temperatures, its dielectric strength weakens, making it susceptible to breakdown under
normal operating voltages and increasing the risk of overvoltages.

3. MECHANICAL DAMAGE

- Physical damage to insulation, such as cuts, punctures, or abrasions, can compromise its ability to
withstand voltage stresses. Mechanical damage can occur during installation, maintenance, or due to
external factors such as vibration or impact. When insulation is damaged, it creates pathways for
electrical current to bypass normal circuit paths, leading to localized overvoltages and potential
equipment failures.

B. Switching Operations

1. Circuit Breaker Operation

- When circuit breakers are operated to interrupt the flow of current in electrical circuits, transient
overvoltages can occur. This phenomenon happens due to the sudden change in circuit conditions,
leading to a rapid increase in voltage levels. During circuit breaker operation, the interruption of current
flow can create a temporary imbalance in the electrical system, resulting in voltage spikes that exceed
normal operating levels. These overvoltages can stress insulation and electronic components, potentially
causing equipment damage or failure.

2. Capacitor bank switching

- Capacitor banks are often used in electrical systems to improve power factor and voltage regulation.
However, when capacitor banks are switched on or off, it can cause transient overvoltages due to the
sudden change in reactive power flow. During capacitor bank switching, the rapid change in capacitance
alters the electrical characteristics of the system, leading to voltage fluctuations and transients. These
overvoltages can affect the stability of the electrical network and may damage sensitive equipment
connected to the system. Proper coordination and control of capacitor bank switching operations are
essential to minimize the impact of transient overvoltages on the electrical system.

C. Load Dynamics

1. Motor Starting

- When electric motors start, they draw a high current initially to overcome inertia and establish
rotation. This surge in current can cause voltage drops along the supply lines, leading to voltage
fluctuations and transient overvoltages in other parts of the electrical system. The sudden increase in
current demand during motor starting can also impact the stability of the voltage levels, potentially
causing overvoltages in sensitive equipment connected to the same electrical network.

2. Transient Loads

- Transient loads are electrical loads that exhibit sudden changes in power consumption, such as
switching on/off of large machinery or equipment. These rapid changes in load demand can create
voltage transients and overvoltages in the electrical system due to the impedance mismatch between
the source and the load. Transient loads can introduce disturbances into the system, causing voltage
fluctuations and potential damage to connected devices.
D. Resonance Phenomenon

1. Parallel Resonance

-Parallel resonance occurs when the inductive and capacitive elements in an electrical system resonate
at the same frequency. This resonance can amplify voltage levels at specific frequencies, leading to
overvoltages in the system. Parallel resonance can occur in power distribution networks due to
interactions between inductive loads, such as motors, and capacitive elements, such as power factor
correction capacitors. The increased voltage levels during parallel resonance can stress insulation and
equipment, posing risks of damage and malfunction.

2. Series Resonance

- Series resonance occurs when the inductive and capacitive elements in a circuit resonate at the same
frequency. Similar to parallel resonance, series resonance can lead to overvoltages in the system at
specific frequencies. Series resonance can occur in power transmission lines or distribution circuits due
to the interaction between the inductance of the lines and the capacitance of the connected equipment.
The resonance phenomenon can result in voltage amplification and potential damage to equipment
connected to the system.

E. Grounding Issues

1. Improper Grounding

- Improper grounding in electrical systems can lead to overvoltages by causing voltage potentials to rise
at unintended points in the system. Inadequate or faulty grounding connections can result in stray
currents, voltage gradients, and ground loops, which can elevate voltage levels beyond safe limits.
Improper grounding can also increase the risk of electrical shock hazards and damage to equipment due
to induced voltages and stray currents.

2. Ground Faults

--Ground faults occur when a fault current flows from an energized conductor to the ground due to
insulation failure or equipment malfunction. Ground faults can lead to overvoltages in the electrical
system by causing voltage imbalances and phase shifts. The presence of ground faults can result in
voltage surges and fluctuations, posing risks of equipment damage and electrical hazards. Proper
detection and mitigation of ground faults are essential to prevent overvoltages and ensure the safety
and reliability of the electrical system.

V. Prevention and Mitigation Techniques

A. Equipment Upgrades and Maintenance

- Regular maintenance and upgrading of electrical equipment are crucial for preventing overvoltages.
This includes inspections, testing, and replacement of worn-out or outdated components. By ensuring
that equipment is in good working condition and meets current standards, the risk of overvoltages due
to equipment failure or degradation can be minimized.

B. Surge Protection Devices

- Surge protection devices (SPDs) are installed in electrical systems to divert excess voltage and
transient surges away from sensitive equipment. SPDs act as a barrier against voltage spikes caused by
lightning strikes, switching operations, or other transient events. By providing a low-impedance path to
ground for transient currents, SPDs help protect connected devices from damage and maintain voltage
levels within safe limits.

C. Voltage Regulation Methods

- Voltage regulation techniques are employed to maintain stable voltage levels within the electrical
system. This includes the use of voltage regulators, tap changers, and automatic voltage control systems
to adjust voltage levels as per requirements. By regulating voltage within acceptable limits, voltage
fluctuations and overvoltages can be mitigated, ensuring the proper functioning of electrical equipment.

D. Grounding Improvement

- Enhancing the grounding system of electrical installations is essential for mitigating overvoltages. This
involves ensuring proper grounding connections, reducing ground resistance, and minimizing ground
loops. Improved grounding helps to dissipate excess voltage safely to the ground and minimize the risk
of overvoltages due to ground faults or stray currents.
E. System Monitoring Control

-Implementing monitoring and control systems allows for real-time monitoring of voltage levels and
electrical parameters within the system. By continuously monitoring voltage fluctuations and identifying
potential overvoltage conditions, proactive measures can be taken to mitigate risks. Automated control
systems can also help in responding to abnormal voltage conditions promptly, such as by activating
protective devices or adjusting voltage regulation settings to maintain system stability.