HVCB-WG C37.015 - HVCB - IEEE Application Guide for Shunt Reactor Switching

Shunt reactors are used in power systems to compensate the capacitive losses of transmission lines during periods of low load. The shunt reactors are connected and disconnected from the system by switching devices such as circuit breakers, circuit-switchers or load break switches. IEEE C37.015 describes the phenomena associated with the switching of shunt reactors. The current to be interrupted is generally less than 300 A rms; however, shunt reactor switching imposes a unique and severe duty on the connected system and the switching device. Successful interruption is the result of a complex interaction between the switching device and the circuit; this interaction can result in significant overvoltages. The purpose of the guide is to describe, principally for the benefit of the user, the shunt reactor switching duty, the overvoltages generated, and the control of those overvoltages. The guide further details the specification of switching devices and procedures to predict field performance based on test data. The purpose of WG C37.015 is to keep the current document updated to the latest development of the components involved (i.e. shunt reactors, circuit breakers, circuit-switchers, surge arresters, etc.).