Bonneville power administration 1400-MW braking resistor

A 1400-MW dynamic braking resistor installed at the Bonneville Power Administration's (BPA) Chief Joseph Substation enhances system stability in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). The capacity of the Pacific Northwest-Southwest (PNW-SW) Intertie is increased by the use of resistor braking for faults in the PNW. The need of and benefits from the use of the brake are discussed. The physical and electrical characteristics of the brake are described as well as the control system for its operation.