Simplified designs for switching reactive power improve power system reliability

This paper is a general discussion of the methods of switching employed for reactive power compensation, the problems encountered with conventional devices, and the improvements made by the latest advancements in technology. Switching reactive power produces voltage transients, chops currents, and stresses equipment. The switching can be harmful to the reactor, the capacitor, the switching device, and/or the adjacent system components. Successful interruption is a complex interaction between the switching device and the circuit. The industry has developed an assortment of switching devices and countermeasures to address the problem. Methodologies suggested by accepted philosophies might not offer the best alternatives now available with the technology improvements.