Electrical and Computer Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Winter 12-12-2020

Abstract

Fast transient electromagnetic disturbances can occur in the atmosphere from natural occurrences such as lightning and solar flares as well as those from manmade events such as that associated with a nuclear bomb detonation. These radiated signals couple into the transmission lines and components within the electric power grid. This has prompted an increased interest in grid resilience to the Early-Time (E1) High-Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP). Three activities were conducted which further grid resilience research. First, power substations in the United States were assessed to develop accurate layouts to be used in radiated transmission line coupling studies. Second, three pre-existing representative E1 electromagnetic environments were modified to be spatially dependent to increase the fidelity of transmission line coupling calculations which rely on spatial dependence for accuracy. Finally, the response of a transient voltage surge suppressor (TVSS) - a protection device in use in some substations - to a conducted E1 pulse was measured.

Keywords

HEMP, Surge Suppressor, Power Grid, Grid Resilience, Pulsed Power, E1

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Electrical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Electrical and Computer Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Jane Lehr

Second Committee Member

Dr. Andrew Fierro

Third Committee Member

Dr. Matthew Halligan

Fourth Committee Member

Ross Guttromson

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