Power transformers for high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) transmission systems
Tailored-to-fit and delivered fully-assembled, HVDC transformers by Siemens enable reliable and highly-efficient HVDC power transmission systems
Siemens expertise and experience produces superior transformers for the HVDC schemes, HVDC Classic and HVDC Plus, in bulk power transmission, offshore and onshore grid connections, back-to-back systems and other HVDC use cases. Portfolio: transformers, upgrades, replacement, repair, refurbishment, and the supply of selected components HVDC ratings: up to 12 GW and up to 1,100 kV DC AC grid connections: up to 1,050 kV AC Features: Compact designs, high reliability, and proven technology from Siemens’ global manufacturing network
Direct-current electricity can now be transmitted at gigantic 1,100 kilovolts
The world´s first transformer, which has been designed and manufactured for the HVDC transmission line with the highest direct-current electricity of ± 1,100 kilovolt (kV) has been dispatched from Nuremberg, Germany. The transformer is now on its way to its Chinese destination. This will take approx. three months. In the future the transformer will enable low-loss and extremely efficient high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) power transmission over a record distance of 3,284 kilometers with a transmission capacity of twelve gigawatts.
Smarter, more sustainable power grids with HVDC
Deregulation, privatization, growing demand, and environmental considerations have grid operators facing a new challenge: building secure and efficient power grids that delivers clean, reliable, and affordable power over long distances to increasingly urbanized societies. Innovative HVDC transformers play a key role in shaping environmentally sustainable power grids while offering economic efficiency.
Smart grids are emerging as a necessary response to the environmental, social and political demands placed on energy supply.
With their capacity to increase transmission efficiency, innovative HVDC solutions will play a key role in making sustainable low-loss AC/DC hybrid grids a reality. With the transmission power capability of HVDC systems steadily on the rise, requirements for converter transformer technology and design have greatly increased. Customers rely on Siemens’ experienced design teams to help them master transmission and grid challenges around the globe.
Bringing stability and security to grid and transmission
HVDC transformers are key components of HVDC stations for long-distance DC transmission lines or DC sea cables. As coupling elements between AC grids and high-power rectifiers, they adapt the voltage, insulate the rectifier itself from the AC grid, and generate a phase shift.HVDC technologies for long distances and low losses
Siemens offers two HVDC technologies: HVDC Classic and HVDC Plus. Siemens transformers meet all requirements for power, voltage, mode of operation, low-noise, connection types, types of cooling, transport, and installation. They also comply with specific national design requirements.
Siemens HVDC transformers make a difference
As a world-leading manufacturer, systems integrator, and provider of transformer solutions and services with a strong local presence, Siemens experts are there wherever and whenever you need them to assist, consult, and provide service. The lead center in Nuremberg ensures that the same extensive know-how and the same technology and quality are available to our customers around the world, while four HVDC facilities across the globe can keep distances for transport to a minimum.Experience in project execution and operational excellence
Hundreds of Siemens HVDC Converter transformers are in successful operation all over the globe. Active in the field since the 1970s, Siemens Transformers has huge experience in designing and manufacturing HVDC units. Rising to challenges, from in-time delivery for large order volumes to building record-setting units that meet highest technical specifications, Siemens stands out for trademark reliability and customer focus.
Reliability lowers total cost of ownership
For operators, assessing reliability risks is crucial for evaluating the total cost of ownership of an HVDC transformer. Including failure rates (FR) and mean-time-between-failure rates (MTBF) of a Siemens HVDC transformer in purchase considerations lowers your risk potential and ensures savings over the entire transformer lifecycle.
Siemens transformers reach a failure rate well below 0,5 percent. According to the international standard defined in IEEE C 57.117 this translates into excellent product reliability. It equals an MTBF rate of more than 200 service years.
Attention to every detail, from design to delivery
Siemens has been pioneering transformer technology, since the dawn of HVDC converter transformer production. As a world-class leader synonymous with top quality and reliability, Siemens enables the successful implementation of HVDC transmission systems with dedicated research and development programs.
- DC voltages: 500 kV, 800 kV, 1100 kV
- Line ratings: 3GW, 6,4GW 8GW, 10GW and 12 GW
- AC voltages: 525kV, 1050kV
Designing and building a HVDC transformer is a complex process. The insulation to ground and between line and valve winding has to withstand AC and DC stresses. Valve windings need to be tested with voltages determined by the protection level of the DC side. Harmonics in currents cause losses in various parts and DC currents influence the magnetization of the core.
Siemens ensure that the quality of the core sheet, the lamination of the sheets, and the nominal induction all conform to rigorous requirements covering losses, noise level, overexcitation, etc.
Siemens Transformers delivers HVDC converter transformer including all main components to facilitate transportation, installation, and safe operation.
Leading competence at the local doorstep
A strong Siemens transformer factory network around the globe creates leading HVDC Converter transformer technology and pre-manufactured components.
To meet public local content requirements, Siemens enables and supports local transformer manufacturers to produce HVDC converter transformers based on Siemens technology. However, to ensure high HVDC converter transformer reliability, Siemens Transformers implements in-house prototype design and manufacturing.
Pioneering transformers for the world's largest HVDC transmission project
capacity
DC transmission voltage
transmission capacity
Transmission losses of less than 4 percent for TenneT
households supply capacity
AC input offshore
DC HVDC link
Connecting Texas to the Southwest power pool
DC transmission voltage
DC capacity
power rating
The 170 kV DC Welsh Converter Station in Texas links the network of the Energy Reliability Council of Texas with the Southwest Power Pool of the eastern US network. The back-to-back tie is equipped with 7 Siemens transformers. It operates at a power rating of 600 MW at a voltage level of 345/345 kV, 60/60 Hz.
