DTRA operation independent spark overview: SREMP test on an operational transmission-distribution power substation and components at HERMES III

This article consists of a collection of slides from the author's conference presentation. The purpose of the test was to obtain information on the effects of a SREMP environment to modern technology power grid elements. An operational, power, transmission-distribution substation (2.4:69 kV) found to be very robust when simultaneously subjected to high levels of radiation and a 5,000 A electromagnetic current pulse. No significant radiation effects on the operational substation or substation components were observed - the SREMP environment was within the constraints of the DOE HERMES III facility. The grid protection elements for an operational power substation (i.e. line insulators, lightning arresters, gas circuit breakers and digital protection control relays) are effective in protecting against catastrophic current pulse insults (e.g., lightning and SREMP).