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Technical Description of Static Compensators (STATCOM)

Book cover Flexible AC Transmission Systems

Part of the book series: CIGRE Green Books ((CIGREGB))

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Abstract

The static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) is a shunt-connected reactive power compensation device using a self-commutated converter, usually a voltage-sourced converter (VSC). Its name arose from its conceptual similarity to a traditional (rotating) synchronous compensator or condenser. A STATCOM can perform a similar function to an SVC but has better speed of response and better reactive power support capability during AC system voltage dips and is more compact. This chapter describes the main technological aspects of a STATCOM, including the topologies suitable for the converter and architecture of the controls. Two main converter topologies are considered – the type using magnetic combination of multiple six-pulse converter bridges (with thyristors or GTOs) and the modular multilevel converter type of STATCOM which is now becoming common. Descriptions of the other main items of primary equipment, along with layout and performance aspects, are also given.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    Some of the same limitations also apply to HVDC systems.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. GE’s Grid Solutions Business, Stafford, UK

    Colin Davidson

  2. ABB, Västerås, Sweden

    Marcio Oliveira

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  1. Colin Davidson
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  2. Marcio Oliveira
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Correspondence to Colin Davidson .

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Davidson, C., Oliveira, M. (2019). Technical Description of Static Compensators (STATCOM). In: Flexible AC Transmission Systems . CIGRE Green Books. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71926-9_8-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71926-9_8-1

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-71926-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-71926-9

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Chapter history

  1. Latest

    Technical Description of Static Compensators (STATCOM)
    Published:
    09 February 2019

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71926-9_8-2

  2. Original

    Technical Description of Static Compensators (STATCOM)
    Published:
    28 November 2018

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-71926-9_8-1

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