Calculation of HVDC converter noncharacteristic harmonics using digital time-domain simulation method

In this paper, the noncharacteristic harmonics of an HVDC power converter station are calculated based on the use of digital time-domain simulation methods. An enhanced version of the Electromagnetic Transients Program (EMTP) is used for the studies. The noncharacteristic harmonics of interest are: (1) the DC side triplen harmonics; and (2) the AC side second harmonic. Impacts of loading conditions, neutral filter, and converter firing angle on the DC side triplen harmonics are discussed. The effects of AC side network parameters, static VAr compensator (SVC), transformer half-cycle saturation, and geomagnetically induced currents (GIG) on the AC side second harmonic instability are also presented. This paper concludes that the digital time-domain simulation method provides significant flexibility for accurate prediction of: (1) generation mechanism; and (2) adverse impacts of HVDC noncharacteristic harmonics.