Procedures & Challenges Dimensioning DC Insulators by Kubranur Varli

Germany’s goal of increasing energy from renewable sources will require expansion of the grid in spite of public opposition to new lines. Use of DC links has therefore been proposed and, as a first step, existing OHLs should become hybrid. This implies need for new conductors and insulators as well as their proper corresponding design. Insulators in particular require a close look since they show different behavior under DC than under AC stress. This presentation will review the methodology and findings of a program to develop new hybrid overhead lines, including types of tower and insulator configurations deemed best able to satisfy all requirements.