Graz technology detects damaging currents before blackouts

A measurement system developed by Graz University of Technology and ARTEMES GmbH can detect unwanted direct currents in high-voltage power grids in real time, helping prevent transformer damage and potentially widespread power failures, ORF Steiermark reported.

The currents can be generated by geomagnetic storms caused by large solar eruptions known as coronal mass ejections. Although most charged particles from the sun are blocked by Earth’s magnetic field, intense particle flows can create geomagnetically induced currents on Earth.

These currents can seriously affect power infrastructure because electricity grids operate with alternating current. Transformers in substations are designed to increase or reduce voltage in alternating-current systems, but additional direct current shifts their operating point. This can shorten a transformer’s service life or cause it to fail, said Werner Schöffer, chief executive of Eibiswald-based ARTEMES GmbH.

The fibre-optic measurement system developed by TU Graz and ARTEMES measures direct-current components directly at voltage levels of 220 to 380 kilovolts. It also records the normal operating current and high-frequency disturbances.

Network operators receive precise real-time data and can take countermeasures before a transformer is damaged or the grid collapses. These measures could include rerouting currents or activating compensation equipment.

The next development phase aims to bring the system to market. Project leader Reinhard Klambauer of TU Graz said that, once fully operational, it would provide secure support for the electricity supply.