The Application of High-Speed Grounding Switches for Single-Pole Reclosing on 500 kV Power Systems

Successful single-pole switching depends on rapid secondary arc extinction. Connecting high-speed grounding switches at each end of a transmission line in parallel with the secondary arc will permit rapid circuit breaker reclosure. Recent technology has advanced whereby a high-speed 500 kV grounding switch can be developed at relatively low cost. Such switches are planned for application on certain existing 500 kV lines of the Bonneville Power Administration. Future applications are being evaluated.