release notes 14 - simtecsincal.simtec.cc/14.0/releasenotes-eng.pdf · for the graphical model...

SIEMENS PSS SINCAL Platform 14.0

Release Information

October 2017 1/59

Release Information – PSS®SINCAL Platform 14.0

This document describes the most important enhancements and changes to the new program version. See

the product manuals for a more detailed description.

1 General Remarks 3

1.1 Licensing 3

1.2 System Requirements 3

1.3 Documentation 4

2 PSS®SINCAL 4

2.1 User Interface 4

2.1.1 Enhanced Creation of Standard Databases 4

2.1.2 Enhanced Network Element Symbols 4

2.1.3 Enhanced Editing Functions in Tabular View 7

2.1.4 Settings for Background Maps in the Database 7

2.1.5 Enhanced XLS Import 8

2.1.6 Improvements for Include Networks 9

2.1.7 Enhanced Automatic Graphic Layout 9

2.1.8 New Evaluation in the Network Graphic 11

2.2 Electrical Networks 12

2.2.1 New Functions for Extended Calculation Settings 12

2.2.2 Enhanced Calculation Automation 12

2.2.3 Enhancements for Owners 17

2.2.4 Enhancements to the Breaker 18

2.2.5 Breaking Current Setting on the Node 19

2.2.6 Enhancements for Two-Conductor Systems 19

2.2.7 Enhanced DINIS Import 20

2.2.8 Enhanced CYMDIST Import and Export 21

2.2.9 Enhanced CIM 16 (CGMES 2.4.15) Import and Export 22

2.2.10 Enhancements for Hosting Capacity 23

2.2.11 Enhancements for Harmonics 27

2.2.12 Filter Design for Harmonics 29

2.2.13 Enhanced Load Assignment 32

2.2.14 Parallel Calculation in the Short Circuit 33

2.2.15 Enhancements in Protection Coordination 34

2.2.16 Enhancements to the Protection Analysis 42

2.2.17 Check OC Settings 43


Release Information

October 2017 2/59

3 PSS®NETOMAC 49

3.1 User Interface 49

3.1.1 Network Browser with Result Connection 49

3.1.2 Improvements in the Model Editor 50

3.1.3 Debugging XMAC Models 50

3.1.4 Results Display in XMAC Models 52

3.1.5 Enhancements for Sections 53

3.1.6 Copying of Diagram Formats 54

3.1.7 Enhanced Automation for Signal Export 54

3.2 Calculation Methods 55

3.2.1 License Query in the Automation 55

3.2.2 New SCL Controller Type 55

3.2.3 Enhancements in Eigenvalue Analysis 57


Release Information

October 2017 3/59

1 General Remarks

1.1 Licensing

To operate the PSS SINCAL Platform 14.0, new license files are required. Once the program is

installed, these can be requested at the PSS SINCAL Platform Support (phone +43 699 12364435,

email [email protected]).

1.2 System Requirements

The following hardware and software requirements include the minimum requirements to operate an

application of the PSS SINCAL Platform 14.0.

Recommended Hardware

PC or notebook

CPU: >= 2 GHz (MultiCore)

RAM: 8 GB

Hard disk: >= 20 GB

Graphics card: >= 1920 x 1200, True Color

Mouse: 3 buttons (wheel mouse)

Operating Systems Supported

Windows 7 (x86 & x64)


Windows 8.1 (x86 & x64)


Windows Server 2008 R2 (x64)

Windows Server 2012 R2 (x64)

Windows Server 2016 (x64)

Database Systems Supported

Microsoft Access

Oracle 9i

Oracle 10g

Oracle 11g

SQL Server 2008, SQL Server Express 2008

SQL Server 2008 R2, SQL Server Express 2008 R2



mailto:[email protected]


Release Information

October 2017 4/59


The list of supported operating systems now includes Windows Server 2016, and SQL Server 2016

as well as SQL Server Express 2016 are now supported for the database systems.

1.3 Documentation

As with every new product version, the documentation has once more been improved and additional

content provided. In this version, the formulas used in the manuals have been revised in order to

ensure improved legibility in the HTML help and in the PDF documentation.

The PSS SINCAL System Manual now also provides in chapter "Automation of the calculation

methods" comprehensive documentation of the automation functions for diagrams.

The documentation of the controller types in the PSS NETOMAC Procedure Manual has been

improved. For the graphical model editor additional notes are provided, what must be observed when

creating XMAC models so that they can be used by the entire PSS Suite (i.e. PSS SINCAL,

PSS NETOMAC).

2 PSS®SINCAL

2.1 User Interface

2.1.1 Enhanced Creation of Standard Databases

The function for creating standard databases was improved. The newly created standard database

can now also be filled with the data of an existing standard database.

When a new standard database is created, all database systems supported by PSS SINCAL can be

used. The newly created database can now optionally also be filled with the content of a freely

selectable standard database (in ACCESS format). This is particularly useful if the database system

is to be changed. For example, if an existing Access standard database has to be transferred to a

standard Oracle database.

2.1.2 Enhanced Network Element Symbols

A new option has been provided especially for users that use ANSI symbols in the network graphic.


Release Information

October 2017 5/59

This enables these ANSI symbols to be also activated in the toolbars, help windows and menus. The

new display can be activated via the Options dialog box in the user interface settings:

If this option is activated, the ANSI symbols are also displayed in the user interface. The following list

shows the different displays of Standard and ANSI symbols.

Standard ANSI

Insert a substation

Create a node

Create a busbar

Create a synchronous machine

Create a power unit

Create an infeeder

Create an asynchronous machine

Create a load

Create a variable shunt element

Create a shunt impedance

Create a shunt reactor


Release Information

October 2017 6/59

Create a shunt capacitor

Create a static compensator

Create a shunt RLC circuit

Create a shunt ripple control transmitter

Create a shunt harmonics resonance network

Create a DC-Infeeder

Create a route

Create a line

Create a variable serial element

Create a two-winding transformer

Create a three-winding transformer

Create a serial reactor

Create a serial capacitor

Create a serial RLC circuit

Create a serial ripple control transmitter

Create a serial harmonics resonance network

Create a serial DC-element

Create a generic element

The ANSI display of symbols on the network graphic was also extended in addition to the symbols in

the user interface. New improved symbols for shunt and serial capacitors and shunt and serial

reactors are provided.


Release Information

October 2017 7/59

2.1.3 Enhanced Editing Functions in Tabular View

The Tabular View now provides additional editing functions via the pop-up menu, which are designed

to simplify working in networks without complete network graphics.

The following functions are now available:

• Set Network Data

This function enables the attributes of those network elements selected in the Tabular View to be

changed together.

• Set Input State

This function enables the input state of the network elements selected in Tabular View to be set.

• Switches

This function enables the terminals of the network elements selected in the table to be opened or

closed.

The new functions in the table are primarily designed to simplify the editing of networks without

complete network graphics.

2.1.4 Settings for Background Maps in the Database

The settings for background maps were previously only available in the SIN file and could not

therefore be used by external coupling solutions and applications. These settings have now been


Release Information

October 2017 8/59

provided in the database in order to extend the functionality and openness of the product. The new

GraphicBackgroundMap table, containing all the necessary parameters, has been provided for this

purpose.

Attribute name Data type Short name Unit Std. Description

GraphicBackgroundMap_ID

Long Integer 0 Primary Key – Graphic Object

Variant_ID Long Integer 1 Secondary Key – Variant

Flag_Variant Integer 1 Element of Current Variant

GraphicArea_ID Long Integer 1 Secondary Key – Graphic Area/Tile

GraphicLayer_ID Long Integer 0 Secondary Key – Layer

Provider Integer 0 Provider 0: Generic 1: MapBox 2: Cloudmade 3: Bing

Style Text (255) Style

Visible Integer 1 Visibility

Alpha Integer 128 Alpha

Brightness Integer 0 Brightness

MaxZoom Integer 16 Max. Zoom

PrintZoom Integer 0 Print Zoom

TileLoad Text (255) Tile Load

Pos Integer 0 Position

PosX Double 0.25mm 0 Position X

PosY Double 0.25mm 0 Position Y

lat Double ° 0 Latitude

lon Double ° 0 Longitude

The settings for background maps are individually defined for each graphic view, the connection to

the view is established via the GraphicBackgroundMap.GraphicArea_ID attribute.

2.1.5 Enhanced XLS Import

The Excel import in PSS SINCAL has been enhanced. It is now possible to import the optional

comment texts for nodes as well as for network elements.

The import function was enhanced for breakers in order to enable individual switch positions for each

conductor.

Another new feature is the import of owners as well as the proportional assignment of network

elements to owners.


Release Information

October 2017 9/59

Data table in Excel:

2.1.6 Improvements for Include Networks

A useful new function has been provided in the user interface for the users of Include networks – the

automatic synchronization of the loaded input data and results. As soon as a network with the

assigned Include networks is opened in the PSS SINCAL user interface, the data in all networks is

synchronized when the following input data and results are selected:

• Input data

• Load flow

• Short circuit

• Multiple faults

• Load profile

• Load development

• Harmonics

2.1.7 Enhanced Automatic Graphic Layout

The functions for the automatic generation of the network graphic was improved in order to better

support the networks that do not have graphic data but contain substation data. This is normally the

case with networks that were imported from the CIM format.

The parameters for the automatic generation of the network graphic are set via a dialog box, which is

actually displayed before the graphic is actually created.


Release Information

October 2017 10/59

The Mode selection field specifies the algorithm by which the network graphic is to be generated.

The following modes are provided here:

• Station:

With this mode, parts of the network graphic with a substation model are specially arranged.

• Station Overview:

This mode makes it possible to automatically generate multiple substation graphics. The

individual substations are positioned by row and column in the overview or by degrees of

longitude or latitude.

Generation Mode Station

If network elements are assigned to a substation, it is possible to determine which elements are on

the boundary and are thus the inputs and outputs of the substation. The nodes of these elements are

set with the layout at the boundary. The network elements in the substation themselves can then be

positioned according to the voltage levels. The new layout algorithm is offered in the Update

Graphics dialog box as Station mode. This enables a substation to be updated by dragging a node

of the substation into the network graphic.

Generation Mode Station Overview

This mode enables a complete graphic for networks with substation data to be created automatically.

The following illustration shows how the substations are placed in the view:


Release Information

October 2017 11/59

The individual substations are arranged by row in the view and vary in size – depending on scope. In

order to ensure a clearer picture, the X spaces between the columns are always kept the same. An

identical distance is also selected for the Y spaces between the rows. The details in the substation

are created with the previously described substation generation mode. The connection elements

between the substations are shown with the reduced terminal display.

Another generation variant for the substation overview mode is the creation of the substation graphic

on the basis of longitude and latitude information. The idea here is the creation of a location based

overview of the network without modelling the details in the substations. For this the geographical

position of the substation is determined from the position information for the nodes that are assigned

to substations. The boundary nodes of the substation are generated and also the connected branch

elements that connect the different substations of the network. The branch elements are drawn in as

direct connections without bends. However, these branch elements can be created with a reduced

terminal display in order to prevent overlaps.

2.1.8 New Evaluation in the Network Graphic

The network graphic is provided with the new Supply evaluation function, which is required to

simplify the finding of isolated network islands. This analyzes and checks the network for whether

network elements are connected to an infeeder of type "slack". The evaluation is not meant to

replace the complex checking of the network topology in the calculation methods, but just to enable a

simple analysis in the user interface of the supply of the network elements.

ST 1.1 ST 2.1 ST 3.1 ST N.1

ST 1.2 ST 2.2 ST 3.2 ST N.2


Release Information

October 2017 12/59

2.2 Electrical Networks

2.2.1 New Functions for Extended Calculation Settings

The extended calculation settings available in PSS SINCAL were originally intended in order to save

settings of networks that were imported from other data formats.

This function is now also used to set special network specific configuration parameters for the

calculation methods. Normally these are settings that generate an enhanced diagnostics output, or

activate alternative processing functions are not available through the normal calculation settings.

In order for these extended parameters to be found more simply, these are now available via

Calculate – Extended Settings.

The dialog box for defining the extended parameters was likewise redesigned, and functions for

exporting and importing parameters were provided.

2.2.2 Enhanced Calculation Automation

The attributes available in the CalcParameter object were extended for the calculation automation.

Beside the basic calculation attributes, all attributes for load flow, harmonics and short circuit

calculations are also provided directly within the automation. The following table shows a list of all

available attributes:

Attribute name Data type Unit Description

ViewDate Double View Date

LoadDataDate Double Load Data Date

IncreaseLoads Integer Use Increased Loads 0: No 1: Yes

FlagRating Integer Determine Rating 1: Base rating 2: First additional rating 3: Second additional rating 4: Third additional rating

FlagDiagram Integer Diagram Creation 0: None 1: Completely 2: Marked 3: Violations 4: Marked or violations


Release Information

October 2017 13/59

FlagUsymElm Integer Voltage Unbalance 1: V2/V1 2: V0/V1 3: NEMA 4: IEC 61000-2-2 5: IEC 61000-2-4 6: IEC 61000-4-30

ContrAdjustment Integer Controller Adjustment 1: Discrete 2: Continuous

Imax Double Max. Parallel Processes for Calculation

FrqNet Double Hz Frequency

Sref Double MVA Reference Power

Uref Double kV Reference Voltage

FlagLFZ0 Integer Mode Zero-Phase Impedance 1: Input data 2: Z0 equals Z1 3: Ze equals Zl 4: Z0 blocking

LockR0 Double Ohm Active Part – Lock Impedance

LockX0 Double Ohm Imaginary Part – Lock Impedance

ExportForm Integer Export Format for Names 0: Name 1: Short name

Load Flow

FlatStart Integer Flat Start 0: No 1: Yes

ChangeLFMethode Integer Change Load Flow Method at Convergence Problems 0: Off 1: On

LFPreCalc Integer Pre-Calculate 0: No 1: Yes

LFMethod Integer Load Flow Procedure 1: Current iteration 2: Newton-Raphson 3: Admittance matrix 5: Unbalanced (comp.) 8: Unbalanced (phases)

StoreRes Integer Store Results in Database 0: Due to method 1: Completely 2: Violations 3: All elements in case of violations 4: Marked 5: Marked or violations

FlagFactor Integer Extended Calculations 0: None 1: Load factor 2: Nodal transmission loss factor

ImpLoad Integer Impedance Load Conversion 0: No 1: Normal 2: Extended

LFControl Integer Enable Automatic Controller Change 0: No 1: Yes

ITmax Long Integer Maximum Number of Iterations

Island Integer Island Operation 0: No 1: Yes

Rmin Double % Voltage Limit Load Reduction

LFSpeedFactor Double 1 Load Flow Speed Factor


Release Information

October 2017 14/59

PowerFactor Double % Power Accuracy

PNB Double MVA Min. Power Accuracy

VLB Double % Mesh Accuracy

VDN Double % Node Accuracy

ull Double % Voltage Lower Limit

uul Double % Voltage Upper Limit

UtilElm Double % Load Profile – Utilization Limits Branch Element

UtilLine Double % Line Utilization Limit

FlagCtrlTransformer Integer Activate Transformer Tap Changer 0: Off 1: On

FlagCtrlShunt Integer Load Profile – Activate Shunt Element Tap Changer 0: No 1: Yes

FlagLoadShedding Integer Load Shedding 0: No 1: Yes

FlagCtrlGenerator Integer Activate Generator Controlling 0: No 1: Yes

FlagCtrlArea Integer Activate Area Interchange 0: Off 1: On

FlagPowerTransfer Integer Redistribute Power between Supply Sources 0: No 1: Yes

Load Flow ext.

StartTime Double Start Time Load Curve

Duration Double Duration Load Curve

TimeStep Double Time Step Load Curve

IncrStartDate Double Start Date

IncrEndDate Double End Date

ZAA Integer Reporting Limit

Short Circuit

FlagSCPreL Integer Short Circuit Method 1: VDE 0102/1.90 – IEC 909 2: VDE 0102/IEC 909 (initial load) 3: VDE 0102/2002 – IEC 909/2001 4: IEC 61363-1/1998 5: IEC 61363-1/1998 (initial load) 6: ANSI 7: G74 8: VDE 0102/2016 – IEC 909/2016 9: GHOST

FlagSCType Integer Kind of Short Circuit Data Type 1: User Defined 2: Minimum 3: Maximum

FlagSCM Integer Network Model for Short Circuit 0: Sym. Components 1: Phase Values

TempDim Double °C Temperature at End of Short Circuit

PeakCurrentCalc Integer

Peak Short Circuit Current Calculation Type 1: Ratio R/X at fault location 2: Radial Network 3: Equivalent frequency 4: Uniform ratio R/X 5: Ratio R/X at fault location R/X < 0.3

TrippCurrentCalc Integer Tripping Current Calculation Type 1: IANEU VDE0102/1.90 – IEC 909 2: IAALT VDE0102/10.71


Release Information

October 2017 15/59

tmin Double s Global Switch Delay

FlagANSIMethod Integer Solve Method 1: E/Z 2: E/X

FlagANSINACD Integer NACD Option 1: All remote 2: Predominant 3: Interpolated

FlagANSITrf Integer Modeling of Transformers 1: Actual data 2: Rated data

FlagANSILine Integer Modeling of Lines 1: Use capacity 2: Ignore capacity

fIp Double Safety Factor for Peak Current

SCSmAsm Integer Join Asynchronous and Synchronous Motors 0: No 1: Yes

SCDC Integer Join Photovoltaic in VDE 2016 0: No 1: Yes

SCWind Integer Join Windpower in VDE 2016 0: No 1: Yes

SCTrafoCorrection Integer Join Trafo Correction Factor in VDE 2016 0: No 1: Yes

Harmonics

HarWeighting Double Harmonic Weighting Type 0: None 1: IEEE 519 (Telephone influence factor) 2: THFF (Telephone high frequency factor) 3: NY x VNY 4: IEC 61000-2-4 class 1 5: IEC 61000-2-4 class 2 6: IEC 61000-2-4 class 3

HarDetFactor Double Detuning Factor

HarFrequency Integer

Frequency Response at Node 1: For all same values 2: Individual values

HarStartFrequency Double Hz Initial Frequency

HarEndFrequency Double Hz End Frequency

HarDeltaFreqMax Double Hz Large Frequency Step

HarDeltaFreqMin Double Hz Small Frequency Step

HarWaveResistance Integer Wave Resistance Equations for Lines 0: No 1: Yes

HarResonanceNetwork Integer Include Resonance Network in Frequency Response 0: No 1: Yes

HarIgnoreConsumer Integer Ignore Consumer 0: No 1: Yes

HarConsiderVoltAngle Integer Voltage Angle Consideration 0: No 1: Yes

Economics

EcoInflation Double % Inflation Rate


Release Information

October 2017 16/59

The following snippet shows with the automation of the harmonic calculation how these attributes can

be set.

' Create simulation object

Dim sim

Set sim = WScript.CreateObject( "Sincal.Simulation" )

If sim is Nothing Then

WScript.Echo "Error: CreateObject Sincal.Simulation failed!"

WScript.Quit

End If

' Setting databases and language

sim.DataSourceEx "DEFAULT", "JET", strDatabase, "Admin", ""

sim.Language "US"

sim.SetInputState iInputState

' Load from database and generating calculation objects

sim.LoadDB "HAR"

Dim cp

Set cp = sim.GetObj( "CALCPARAMETER", 1 )

If cp is Nothing Then

WScript.Echo "CALCPARAMETER is NOTHING"

WScript.Quit

End If

' Modify calc settings for harmonics

Call SetItem( cp, "HarWeighting" , 1 )

Call SetItem( cp, "HarDetFactor" , 6.756)

Call SetItem( cp, "HarFrequency" , 4 )

Call SetItem( cp, "HarStartFrequency" , 1.123)

Call SetItem( cp, "HarEndFrequency" , 3.211)

Call SetItem( cp, "HarDeltaFreqMax" , 5.789)

Call SetItem( cp, "HarDeltaFreqMin" , 0.987)

Call SetItem( cp, "HarWaveResistance" , 0 )

Call SetItem( cp, "HarIgnoreConsumer" , 1 )

Call SetItem( cp, "HarResonanceNetwork" , 1 )

Call SetItem( cp, "HarConsiderVoltAngle" , 0 )

' Start harmonic calculation

sim.Start "HAR"

If sim.StatusID <> siSimulationOK Then

WScript.Echo "HAR failed!"

WriteMessages( sim )

End If

License Check in the Calculation Automation

The calculation automation now includes another new function which makes it possible to query

whether a license is present for a specific calculation module. This is useful when creating universal

automation solutions, which can then decide on their own, by means of the available license, which

calculation functions are to be executed.

The following snippet checks whether a license is available for the short circuit calculation in

electrical networks. The check is carried out with the new CheckLicense function.

' Create simulation object

Dim sim


Release Information

October 2017 17/59

Set sim = WScript.CreateObject( "Sincal.Simulation" )

If sim is Nothing Then


WScript.Quit

End If

' Check license for component (El, H2o, Gas, Heat) and module of component

Dim iState

iState = sim.CheckLicense( "El", "SC" )

If iState <> 0 Then

' TODO: Handle license errors

' -1 ... Common failure

' 1 ... License file does not exist

' 2 ... Invalid/wrong license file

' 3 ... Update of license information not possible

' 4 ... Start on this computer not possible

' 5 ... License expired

' 6 ... Start of the module not possible

WScript.Echo "Simulation.CheckLicense: " & CStr(iState) & " " & Simulation.GetLicenseErrorText()

End If

A detailed description of the new automation functions with all parameters is provided in the System

Manual in the chapter Automation of the Calculation Methods.

2.2.3 Enhancements for Owners

The functionality of the owners was enhanced. Owners can now be assigned to the substations.

The owners are visualized in the network browser as well as the assigned network elements (nodes,

elements and substations). Data editing and selection in the network graphic are also possible.

The functions for editing the owners were likewise linked in the substation dialog box and in the pop-


Release Information

October 2017 18/59

up menu of the substation in the network graphic. The evaluation for owners was also enhanced in

order to visualize assigned substations.

2.2.4 Enhancements to the Breaker

The breaker in PSS SINCAL were already revised in the previous version and combined with the

element switch times. The data model was likewise prepared for a new feature, which is now

available in the new version: the switching of individual conductors. This enhancement is designed to

help avoid the time consuming one-phase simulation of the symmetrical network just for switching:

For this the breaker is provided with the Switch Mode selection field, which can be used to control

whether all existing conductors of the network element are to be switched or whether individual

conductors are to be switched according to individual settings.

However, as soon as an individual switch state for individual conductors is present, the network is

unbalanced. In other words, the network model then has to be set accordingly for asymmetrical

calculations.


Release Information

October 2017 19/59

2.2.5 Breaking Current Setting on the Node

The Max. Admissible Breaking Current Ibmax can also be set on the node in addition to the short

circuit current Ik"max and the peak current Ipmax already provided.

The values set at the nodes define the maximum permissible limit values that can occur with the

currents. A warning is output if these are exceeded. Some calculation procedures (e.g. hosting

capacity) also use these values to assess whether modifications are permissible in the network.

2.2.6 Enhancements for Two-Conductor Systems

These functional enhancements are designed to provide better support for the modeling of networks

with two 180° phase shift midpoint voltages (e.g. with rail networks). The basic problem here is that

the line-line voltage is exactly twice as big as the line-ground voltage. This causes problems in the

display of results and also with control, because these values differ from the line-line voltages in a

120° phase shift by the factor of √3/2.

Vector Diagrams of Two-Conductor Networks 𝑉𝐿𝐿 = 2 × 𝑉𝐿𝐸:

Vector Diagrams of Three-Conductor Networks 𝑉𝐿𝐿 = √3 × 𝑉𝐿𝐸:

V12

V2 V1

V2

V3

V23 V31

V3

V1


Release Information

October 2017 20/59

To solve these problems, it is now possible to set in the network level in the Kind of Voltage field

which voltages are used. The following values are available:

• Line-Line Voltage (120 °)

• Line-Ground Voltage (120 °)

• Line-Line Voltage (180 °)

• Line-Ground Voltage (180 °)

The selected voltage type is included in the result determination of all elements assigned to the

network level and the controls to percentage voltage values consider this setting.

2.2.7 Enhanced DINIS Import

A new option is provided for the import of DINIS networks. This deactivates the generation of

individual graphic texts for network elements.

V3

V12

V3

-V2 V2 V1

V3

V2 V1

-V1

V31

V2 V1

-V3 V23


Release Information

October 2017 21/59

If the Individual text option is deactivated, no graphic texts are created. Annotation in the entire

network graphic is then carried out with the font that can be preset globally. Although no individual

settings can be made for the texts, processing speed is increased and the main memory requirement

and database size are considerably reduced with very large network models.

2.2.8 Enhanced CYMDIST Import and Export

The following functions were added to the CYMDIST import and export in order to make data

exchange even easier:

• Extensions for shunt capacitors

The new CYMDIST ASCII file structure 7.2 supports asymmetrical capacitors. It is now possible

to import these capacitors.

• Enhancements for the import of lines

Line definitions of type CONDUCTOR from the equipment file can now also be processed.

• Export for infeeders

Network infeeders of PSS SINCAL are now exported as SOURCE EQUIVALENT.

• Import of loads with customer data

The simulation of loads with the import was improved in order to better determine the right load

model: Z constant, I constant or P&Q constant.

• Enhanced import of transformers

Improvements to the determination of throughput and winding power values in TRANSFORMER

SETTING and AUTO TRANSFORMER SETTING.

• Extended support for the import for the following DINIS objects: FUSE, RECLOSER,

TRANSFORMER BYPHASE.

New options have been provided in the import wizard, especially for large networks with many

breakers. These make it possible to control how breaker are to be imported.


Release Information

October 2017 22/59

If the Import only switch states instead of breakers option is activated, no breakers are imported

but only the switch state is directly transferred to the terminal. The Assign breaker to network

elements option enables unnecessary connections with breakers to be eliminated. The breakers are

positioned on the next valid element (provided this is possible in the topology).

If these new options are not active, the import is the same as before. In other words, a connection is

created for each breaker and a breaker is then assigned to this connection. In other words, for each

breaker in the CYMDIST file there is an additional branch element, an additional node and a switch

element in the PSS SINCAL network model.

The Individual text option was provided in the same way as for the DINIS import. This enables the

import of individual graphic texts for network elements to be deactivated.

2.2.9 Enhanced CIM 16 (CGMES 2.4.15) Import and Export

The following enhancements have been made:

• Improved import and export of breaker

Support for the CIM classes switch, breaker and disconnector were implemented here in order to

ensure that PSS SINCAL could exchange breakers easily in CIM format.

• Export of connections

Conductors of type connection are exported as CIM breakers instead of conductors.

• Export of graphic data

The export function was enhanced so that multiple PSS SINCAL views can also be exported.

The exporting of geographical views with WGS84 is now also possible.

• General improvements

Enhancements have been implemented for both the import and export of controllers and

switched shunts in order to provide better support for the different models in PSS SINCAL and

CIM.


Release Information

October 2017 23/59

2.2.10 Enhancements for Hosting Capacity

The hosting capacity calculation module makes it possible to check extensively if a generating plant

or a consumer can be connected in a selected observation area.

A calculation with load profiles or operating points can be carried out if required in order to ensure

that the determined results are also correct with different network operating states. In this case the

entire calculation module is repeated for the different times/operating points.

This check requires a number of different calculations, so that use in large networks can take a

relatively long time. This is particularly the case if the check is carried out with a load profile. This is

illustrated with the following simple calculation example:

(number of nodes * calculation steps + additional calculations) * times from the profile

(300 * 20 + 4) * 96 = 576.384

Even a very small area of observation with 300 examined nodes and 96 different times requires more

than 500,000 calculations.

To shorten the calculation time, parallel calculation with multiple processes is now also supported for

this calculation module. The number of processes to be used in parallel for calculation can be set in

the Calculation Settings in the Basic Data tab.

DC … selected node

… Area of observation


Release Information

October 2017 24/59

Combining equivalent nodes in clusters is another likewise very useful and efficient way of reducing

the calculation time. The calculation is then carried out only for the node in the center of the cluster

and all other assigned nodes receive the same results. The formation of the cluster can be activated

in the wizard, which is displayed after starting the calculation procedure.

The clusters are formed automatically. However, the combination of topologically connected nodes

can be controlled with the Adm. voltage difference and Adm. distance settings. The increase in

speed is determined by the number of combined nodes, or more precisely, by the number of

calculations that do not have to be carried out several times. The clusters can also be highlighted in

order to assess whether the formation of clusters in a network is useful. The following illustration

shows a typical distribution network. The individual clusters are highlighted here and the relevant

central node is also marked.


Release Information

October 2017 25/59

Enhanced Functions

The hosting capacity calculation procedure is based on definable conditions that have to be observed

fully in order to enable the connection of a generating plant or a consumer.

In order to ensure more flexible use of the procedure, it is possible to activate or deactivate all the

background conditions individually. A checkbox is provided in the wizard for each setting value,

by which the check can be activated or deactivated.


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October 2017 26/59

The new functionality is particularly useful when it is necessary to examine precisely the degree to

which a background condition (e.g. the utilization ith) is a critical factor in the limitation of the

connection load. In this case, only this background condition is activated for the check, and the

calculation is carried out in the normal way. The results provide a detailed record of the calculations

(times for the load profile or operating points), in which the set limit value of the background condition

was exceeded.

Enhanced information has now been provided for each background condition in order to enable a

better evaluation of these results and the identification of problematic locations in the network in

particular. The limiting elements for each background condition can be displayed. For this the pop-up

menu in the column of the particular background condition is simply opened in the table of the result

view and Limiting Elements selected.

New Result Report

The results of the hosting capacity can now also be exported in the form of a report. The export is

started directly via the integrated toolbar of the result view.


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October 2017 27/59

The data visualized in the result view is also output in the report.

2.2.11 Enhancements for Harmonics

The Static Compensator network element was enhanced with additional input data in order to

describe the frequency dependent behavior of the element in the harmonics calculation. The same

harmonics data is now available as for all infeeders.

The permissible harmonic values for the voltage levels can be set globally for the harmonics

calculation via the calculation settings. They can also be overwritten individually if required in each

network level with user-defined voltage limits. The levels defined in this way were previously always

shown in the harmonics diagrams according to the IEC requirements. In order to make this more

flexible, the new Standard option was provided with the levels, making it possible to control the

display.


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October 2017 28/59

The following Standards are available:

• IEC:

The levels are shown in the harmonics diagram in the form of up to three characteristic curves

with ordinal numbers. The three characteristic curves are divided up on the basis of the ordinal

number (divisible by 2, divisible by 3 and remaining). The THD (= total harmonic distortion) is

recorded in each of the characteristic curves. Only those characteristics are shown for which

there is at least one harmonic current or voltage supply in the network with a corresponding

ordinal number.

• IEEE:

The levels are shown in the harmonics distribution limit diagram in the form of a characteristic

curve with the specified voltage.

Enhanced Harmonics Results

A State as well as the value of the harmonic voltage for the permissible V/Vmax limit value is

shown in the node results in order to better evaluate the results of the calculation.


Release Information

October 2017 29/59

The following values are available for the state:

• Ok:

There is no limit value violation.

• Limit Violation:

There is a limit value violation at this node at one of the examined frequencies. This should

make it possible to localize nodes where level limits have been violated, irrespective of the

ordinal number shown.

• Current Limit Violation:

There is a limit value violation at this node at the ordinal number/frequency shown.

• Unknown Limit:

A state could not be determined as no limit values were set for the levels.

The new result fields can also be shown in the network graphic and a filter coloring is also possible

using the particular node state. In this way, it is possible to visualize simply level violations in the

network.

The Tabular View also provides the new fields for the harmonics results.

2.2.12 Filter Design for Harmonics

This new harmonics function enables the required filter elements for observing the set harmonic

voltage level to be automatically determined.

In the following example, individual voltage limits were defined for the 20 kV network level. The levels

determined from the harmonics calculation exceed these voltage limits at ordinal numbers 11, 13, 17,

19, …

The harmonic filter is then designed to prevent the violation of levels with suitable filter elements.

To design the filters, the node where the filter elements are to be positioned is selected in the

network graphic. Calculation at Node – Filter Design is then activated via the pop-up menu. This

opens the following dialog box.


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October 2017 30/59

The control parameters for designing the filters can be defined in the dialog box.

The RLC type selection field is used to define whether the generated filter elements are to be

designed as High pass R, High pass C or Serial Circuit filters.

The defined Absorption resistance is transferred directly to the filter element.

The Safety margin field is used to define the minimum value and percentage difference of the

harmonic level to the valuation characteristic.

(100.0 − 𝑆𝑎𝑓𝑒𝑡𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑖𝑛) <𝑉

𝑉𝑚𝑎𝑥

× 100.0

The Max. filter count field defines the maximum number of RLC filter elements that can be created

at the node. It must be remembered that each filter element is designed for one ordinal number. If

several violations occur for different ordinal numbers multiple filter elements are required.

Not only this start node is included in order to check the maximum harmonic voltage. Through a

network trace, all nodes with the same rated voltage (+/- 10 %) are likewise included in the check.

The maximum harmonic voltage is exceeded if the specified safety margin of a ordinal number or

THD is not observed.

As soon as at least one value has been exceeded, the ordinal number with the greatest limit violation

is determined. For this ordinal number, a filter of the specified RLC type is then added to the matrix to

determine the harmonic voltage.

All harmonic voltages, the THD and the limit violations then have to be redefined. The filter data is

Start node

Test node


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October 2017 31/59

varied until no value is exceeded with the ordinal number for the filter. Each change requires again

the calculation of all harmonic voltages, of the THD and the limit violation.

The filter data in PSS SINCAL is selected so that the current in the load flow reaches via the filter a

maximum value around 250 amperes. If a filter with this load current does not bring the limit violation

of the harmonic voltage to within the specified range, other filters are created for this ordinal number.

The filter design is completed if the harmonic voltages are no longer exceeded or the maximum

number of filters is reached.

For each filter a data set with the R, L and C values of the filter is stored in the result table of the filter

design (HarFilterResult).

After the filter design has been completed, the harmonic results are shown in the diagram view and

in the network graphic. It must be noted that these results visualize the state that occurs when all

determined RLC filter elements in the network are active.

In our example, 4 filter elements for different ordinal numbers were determined at the selected

node. These filter elements have all been included in the harmonics calculation, resulting in the

reduction of the previous harmonic levels that were too high. As the following illustration now shows,

all levels of the 20 kV network level are below the defined level limit value.

The determined RLC filter elements are visualized in the Result Browser.


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October 2017 32/59

The filter elements determined can be viewed here and also the elements can be created easily in

the network graphic. The required filter elements are activated in the list and then the Create button

is clicked.

2.2.13 Enhanced Load Assignment

The load assignment available in PSS SINCAL is an enhanced load flow calculation that considers

measurements. The measurements are – as in real networks – maximum or minimum values.

Measurements can be prescribed for general loads and at measuring points in the network. Load

assignment adjusts the maximum or minimum values for general network loads to provide maximum

or minimum values for measuring points during the load flow calculations.

Previously, the load assignment was only suitable for unmeshed networks (radial networks). With this

network form, exact trimmings of the loads can be carried out in order to achieve precise matching

with the measured values. In practice it frequently occurs that networks do not fulfill these

requirements. For this reason, new calculation modes have been provided for the load assignment.

The required type of load assignment can be selected in the dialog box, which is now displayed when

the calculation method is started.

The procedure for load assignment can be defined in the Mode selection field:

• Radial Network:

This is the previous mode for a radial network topology.

• Meshed Network:

New mode for meshed networks with the topology determined by the flow direction of the active

power.

• Measuring Area:

New mode for meshed networks with an equivalent circuit.

Two new options for controlling the load assignment have also been provided:

• The Use minimum values option makes it possible to specify that the minimum measured value

data is used for trimming the loads instead of the maximum measured value data.

• The Consider all loads option specifies that loads without measured value data are also

included in the load assignment.

Meshed Network

Trimming is only possible if a consumer is uniquely assigned to a measuring device. In this mode,

the assignment is not based on the topology but the flow direction of the active power in the network.

As the flow direction changes during the load flows carried out for trimming, the assignment is carried

out again after every load flow.


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October 2017 33/59

The illustration shows the flow direction of the active power in green. All consumers can be uniquely

assigned to the measuring devices.

Measuring Area

This mode is actually an estimation of the network state within a measuring area by means of

measured values at the transition points. The measuring area is thus defined by the surrounding

measuring devices.

If a network area is supplied via several measuring devices, the one with the largest infeeder current

is determined first of all. This device remains topologically unchanged in the network. All other

measuring devices are then replaced on the supply side with a consumer and an infeeder for the

measuring area to be trimmed.

During the load flows carried out for trimming, the data of the two auxiliary elements is continuously

refreshed. The infeeder receives the voltage of the consumer node and the consumer receives the

power of the infeeder. This ensures that the correct power and voltage distribution is also set, if the

network is combined.

2.2.14 Parallel Calculation in the Short Circuit

To shorten the calculation time, parallel calculation with multiple processes is now also supported for

the short circuit calculation. The number of processes to be used in parallel for calculation can be set

in the Calculation Settings in the Basic Data tab.

The short circuit calculation is very suitable for parallel processing, as this involves the execution of

separate short circuit calculations at each node point in the network. However, parallel calculation

can only significantly improve processing speed if the short circuit problem cannot be solved with the

fast Takahashi method. This is always the case if many generators are in the network or the network

model itself is unbalanced.

User entry

Equivalent circuit


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October 2017 34/59

2.2.15 Enhancements in Protection Coordination

New Functions in the Diagrams

The editing of protection device setting values in the input data diagrams was improved. If incorrect

parameters are set on the protection device, the diagram is no longer automatically deleted.

Simplified Creation of Protection Devices

The creation of protection devices was made simpler. PSS SINCAL previously provided different

creation modes for OC, DI and DIFF devices. However, in practice it is more often the case that

different protection functions are assigned to the same protection device (or rather one installation

location). Therefore only one mode is now provided for creating protection devices: Insert – Insert

Modes – Protection Device.

If a network element for placing the protection device was selected with Protection Device Insert

mode active, a dialog box appears, in which the name of the new device can be entered. The

protection type to be created can also be selected.

The creation of the protection device can be completed either by closing the dialog box with the OK

button or the Edit button. The Edit button also opens the screen form for editing the setting values of

the protection device. This new function enables users to decide for themselves, whether only the

devices are to be placed in the network or if a detailed configuration is to be carried out.

New DI Protection Device Types

PSS SINCAL now also supports the following distance protection devices:

• Manufacturer ABB: RED670

• Manufacturer Toshiba: GRL100


Release Information

October 2017 35/59

Restricted Earth-Fault Protection (ANSI 87N)

PSS SINCAL now supports earth-fault differential protection (REF protection = restricted earth-fault

protection). This not only includes phase currents in the total current but also neutral point currents in

the determination. The restricted earth-fault current is determined here for all phases together as

follows.

𝐼𝑑𝑖𝑓𝑓 = |𝐼𝐿1 × 𝑘1 + 𝐼𝐿2 × 𝑘1 + 𝐼𝐿3 × 𝑘1 − 𝐼𝐸 × 𝑘2|

The stabilization current is then calculated as follows.

𝐼𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑏 = |𝐼𝐿1 × 𝑘1| + |𝐼𝐿2 × 𝑘1| + |𝐼𝐿3 × 𝑘1| + |𝐼𝐸 × 𝑘2|

The reference earth fault and stabilization current as usual makes it possible to check whether

tripping occurred or not.

The differential earth-fault protection is configured in the protection device screen form with the DIFF

setting values. For this the Neutral Point setting is selected in the Protection Object tab for the

protection object.


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October 2017 36/59

The following illustration shows a ground fault differential protection at a transformer on a single

busbar.

This only requires the creation of a differential protection device. The protection device to be created

is located at measuring point M1. The protection device is supplied with the phase currents from the

measuring point M1. As a ground and phase transformer can be assigned with any protection device,

the one at the transformer neutral point is entered as a ground transformer. Only a current

transformer is therefore located at measuring point M2. The data of the ground transformer must be

entered at the protection device in measuring point 1 as measuring point 2.

The following illustration shows a ground fault differential protection at a transformer on a double

busbar.

M1

M2

M1

M2

M3


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October 2017 37/59

This requires the creation of two differential protection devices. The protection devices to be created

are located at measuring points M1 and M3. The protection devices are supplied with the phase

currents from measuring points M1 and M3. A phase and ground transformer is assigned to the

protection device in M1. As with the protection device above, the data of the ground transformer must

be entered at the measuring point 1 as measuring point 2. Only a current transformer is therefore

located at measuring point M2. Only the phase current from the protection device in measuring point

3 is required.

Reactance Method for Impedance Determination

In PSS SINCAL it is now possible to activate the reactance method for impedance determination for

the distance protection device types Common, 7SA84, 7SA86 and 7SA87.


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October 2017 38/59

This is activated via the last selection field in the setting values. The type of impedance determination

can be selected here:

• STD: Conventional Method

• RMD: Reactance Method

With the reactance method for calculating the impedance, the protection device uses the arc

impedance and conductor reactance as the loop impedance. This applies to phase-phase and

phase-ground loops.

In the event of a phase-phase fault, the protection device measures the arc resistance.

In the event of a phase-ground fault, the protection device measures the arc resistance and the load

resistance.

The reactance method uses a compensation angle α to compensate for the effect of different

conductor angles with a power supply from both ends, high fault resistances etc.

The reactance method works with an equivalent current in order to prevent measuring faults. The

equivalent current can be selected as required.

Il1

IF

RF

L2

N

L1

L3

m * Zl (1-m) * Zl

Il2

Il3

Il1 m * Ze (1-m) * Zl

Il1

IF

RF

L2

N

L1

L3

m * Zl (1-m) * Zl

Il2

Il3

Il1 m * Ze (1-m) * Zl


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October 2017 39/59

Tripping Area MHO Limited

The new limited MHO tripping area is an MHO circle that is limited horizontally and vertically in the

first quadrant in definition point Z (setting value Z and angle of the straight lines). The impedance

value supplying the smallest MHO circle with the straight lines is used as the smallest primary

network impedance.

MHO Limited – Forward

MHO Limited – Backward

A polarized tripping is likewise possible. The polarization is carried in the same way as for MHO

circle polarized with an impedance shift Zvor. The impedance value supplying the smallest

unpolarized MHO circle with the straight lines is used as the smallest primary network impedance.

MHO Limited and Polarized – Forward – Fault in Backward Direction

Positive and Negative Phase Sequence Tripping for OC Protection Devices

The tripping units of the OC protection devices in PSS SINCAL previously always operated with

phase values. Modern electronic protection devices also makes it possible to activate a positive and

negative phase sequence tripping. These trip operations are (also for the pickup) determined with the

positive and negative phase sequence data.

The possibility was therefore provided to set for each tripping unit of the OC protection devices

whether phase values, positive or negative phase sequence values are used.

X

Z

R

X

R

Z

X

R

Zvor

Z


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October 2017 40/59

The following selection options are available:

• Off: Tripping unit not active

• Phase: Tripping unit responds to overcurrent phase values (old value: On)

• Pos: Tripping unit responds to overcurrent positive-phase sequence value

• Neg: Tripping unit responds to overcurrent negative-phase sequence value

Marking with the minus sign (-) enables the undercurrent protection for the tripping units to be set.

It is also possible to configure a limit (Lim). Depending on the parameter setting of the tripping units

the time of the instantaneous tripping is greater than the shortest time of the tripping characteristic

curve. The instantaneous tripping therefore overlays only a part of the tripping characteristic curve. In

this case, the time of the high set tripping can be limited if required.

Without limitation:

With limitation:

I

t

I

t


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October 2017 41/59

Parallel Calculation in the Protection Coordination

To increase the processing speed, parallel calculation with multiple processes is now also supported

in the protection coordination.

The protection coordination is based on a calculation with loops, which determine the protection

devices that pick up and trip. The parallel processing of loops itself is not possible because the data

is interdependent. In other words, sequential processing is unavoidable. However, the division for

parallel calculation using the fault observations is possible. These define the points in the network at

which a protection coordination is carried out. For each fault observation, a separate determination of

the fault clearing is made, enabling this calculation also to be divided over several processes.

The parallel calculation is activated with the Calculation Settings. The maximum number of

processes that can be used in parallel can be set here in the Basic Data tab.

I/t Characteristics with Formulas in the Protection Device Database

User-defined formulas in addition to the data points and pre-defined formulas are now possible for

defining the I/t characteristics of OC protection devices.

The definition is carried out in the screen form for the standard types of OC protection devices. A

user-defined formula describing the I/t characteristics can be entered in the basic data of the tripping

characteristics.

Example of overload characteristics with a pre-load current of 20 %:

𝑓𝑡 = 𝑙𝑛

[ (

𝐼𝐼𝑝

)2

− 0.22

(𝐼𝐼𝑝

)2

− 1]

This is entered as follows in the formula field:

ln(( IIp^2 – 0.2^2) / (IIp^2 – 1))

Only the entry of the minimum and/or maximum value for I/Ip (IIp_min and IIp_max) is required as

parameters (without this entry PSS SINCAL uses 1.1 as the minimum value and 20.0 as the

maximum value).

The calculated time is measured in seconds. If the unit "min" or "cyc" are entered in the setting value


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data, the calculated time is automatically transformed from minutes or cycles (via the frequency) to

seconds.

2.2.16 Enhancements to the Protection Analysis

New Result Report

The results of the protection analysis are displayed in the results view in a table with a colored

background. This shows all the analyzed protection routes divided with a preset number. The

following illustration shows the result view:

This data can be exported in the form of a Word report. For this automation functions are used to fill

a Word template document with results data. With large observation areas containing many

protection routes, the creation of a Word report is very time consuming. A new List&Label report was

therefore connected to the Word report as well. This can show also large volumes of data very

quickly. The new report is created with the relevant control button in the header area of the result

view.

The previous Word report can still be created via the pop-up menu by selecting Show

Documentation.

New Check Status

The check points are accordingly visualized along the protection routes in the table. The color

indicates the result of the protection analysis. The new Not calculable status is available in order to

show that a calculation was not possible at the check point. The following list shows the color-coded


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marking of the states:

Selective all protection devices selective, fault was cleared

Not Cleared

Underfunction not all devices that are expected to trip actually do trip, but the fault is nevertheless cleared

Overfunction overall selectivity, but at least one protection device not selective, therefore trips although it should not trip

Not calculable This indicates that the selected fault type could not be calculated at the fault location shown (e.g. a three-phase short circuit on a network element with only one conductor)

2.2.17 Check OC Settings

This calculation makes it possible to carry out a simplified check of the setting values of OC

protection devices. The essential idea here is to use the feeder-based display of the protection area

to identify and visualize incorrect setting values.

The network planning tool for checking OC setting values was previously implemented directly in the

user interface because it was originally only meant to be a small "tool" for making a rough estimate of

the selectivity of OC setting values.

To make even better use of this function, the tool was implemented directly in the calculation

methods. This enables the functionality of the tool to be used also with automation solutions. The

new implementation also has enhanced check functions and the display of the results in the user

interface was improved. Operation was also adapted to match the protection analysis.

Das The calculation procedure is started via Calculate – Protection Device Coordination – Check

OC Settings. This starts a wizard in which the checking settings can be defined. A new feature here

is the selection of the mode on the first page of the wizard:

• Settings Verification

This corresponds to the previous check of the setting values.

• k Factor Verification

This new check determines the k Factor of the protection devices by means of a short circuit

calculation.

Settings Verification

This check mode enables the setting values I>, I>> and I>>> of OC protection devices to be checked

with regard to current selectivity and time selectivity.

The following illustration shows the first page of the wizard which is displayed when the calculation

method is started.


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October 2017 44/59

The check mode has exactly the same function as the previous one available. However, the display

in the Results View has been optimized.

The results are displayed in tabular form, in which the protection devices are shown in topological

order in the checked feeders.

The table can visualize the phase and ground settings of the OC protection devices for the selected

check area. Click the title bar to move between phase and ground settings. The table shows the

complete protection area in the topologically correct order and thus enables straightforward

evaluation of upstream and downstream protection devices.

The setting values of the tripping zones I>, I>> and I>>> are displayed for each protection device.

The color coding here visualizes whether the setting values meet the check criteria:

• Green:

Selectivity check was successful. No problem was found.

• Red:

The selectivity check has failed. At least one check criterion was not observed. All violations of

check criteria are shown.


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October 2017 45/59

• Purple:

The protection device was excluded from the check.

The relevant devices are indicated by arrows in the table so that the setting values of a selected

protection device can be checked in context with the upstream and downstream protection devices.

The illustration shown visualizes the details for the incorrectly set OC4 protection device. This shows

clearly a violation of the time selectivity because the same tripping time was set as in the OC3

protection device in front of it.

k Factor Verification

With this check mode it is possible to analyze whether the current set for the protection devices will

cause tripping in the event of a fault with sufficient safety (k Factor).

The following illustration shows the first page of the wizard which is displayed when the calculation

method is started.

The Check Area section is used to define which part of the network is to be analyzed:

• Selection or Network element group

A network trace is carried out starting from the selected terminal of a branch element in order to

determine the check area. The check area ends at transformers and variable serial elements

which are connected with another network level.

• Feeder

This uses a determined feeder as a check area. The check area always starts at the terminal at

the transformer substation of the feeder. The elements of the feeder are processed in topological

order, which is determined by a network trace.

The Options section defines which checks are carried out:

• SC Method

This makes it possible to define which type of short circuit is used for the check.


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October 2017 46/59

• Minimal k Factor

This defines which safety factor for tripping must be achieved using the minimum short circuit

current occurring in the protection area. If the value is below this setting, it is evaluated as a

faulty parameter setting.

• Check overload tripping

This option enables a further check to be carried out for the load flow. This checks whether

protection devices are already tripping by means of the load flow currents present.

• Detection of rated protection device current

The defines that the minimum tripping current set at the device is used for the check. If this

option is deactivated, the rated current of the current transformer or fuse rated current is used.

The k Factor is determined individually for each protection device using the smallest fault current. For

this the protection area of the protection device is determined and a short circuit calculation carried

out at different points in order to determine the smallest fault current present. The following

illustration shows the determination of the smallest fault current for the protection area of the device

on line L3.

The k Factor is then determined simply from the protection device rated current and the minimum

fault current.

𝑘 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟 =𝑖𝑘𝑚𝑖𝑛

"

𝐼𝐷𝑒𝑣

This k Factor must be greater than the set min. k Factor.

𝑚𝑖𝑛. 𝑘 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟 < 𝑘 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟

If this requirement is not fulfilled, a faulty protection device setting is shown.

The results of the check are displayed in the result view. This shows the topological data of the

checked area and the associated results. The check status is shown for each protection device.

L1 L2

L3 L4

L5


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October 2017 47/59

Various control buttons are provided in the header area of the view, by which the calculation

procedure can be started and the results exported.

Beneath this in the Settings section of the result view, the most important parameters are shown,

which were set in the control dialog box at the start of the Check OC Settings calculation procedure.

The Results section visualizes the results of the calculation procedure. The results are shown in a

table, with the protection devices shown in topological order in the checked feeders.

The Feeder column contains the start node and the first network element of the feeder that was

checked.

The Location column contains the installation location of the protection device.

The LF Current column shows the registered load flow current.

The SC Current column contains the minimum fault current in the protection area registered by the

protection device and its position is shown in the SC Position column.


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October 2017 48/59

The Tripping Current column shows the minimum current set at the protection device and the Min.

Tripping Current column the current that should be set on the basis of the set k Factor.

The k Factor column contains the value determined by the division of the fault current by the tripping

current. If this value is below the set minimum k Factor, it is shown in red and a fault status is

indicated.

The State column shows the result of the check:

• OK (green):

k-Factor check was successful. No problem was found.

• KO (red):

A check criterion was violated. This can be both the k Factor as well as a load tripping. The

violated criterion is shown.

The Comment column contains the text that was stored at the protection devices excluded for the

check.

A detailed display can be opened out for each protection device for checking the settings for backup

protection. The detailed display can be opened and closed via the button in the 2nd column. The

above illustration shows an example of backup protection for the OC3 protection device. The backup

devices are those protection devices that are required to ensure disconnection if the primary

protection device fails.


Release Information

October 2017 49/59

3 PSS®NETOMAC

3.1 User Interface

3.1.1 Network Browser with Result Connection

A network browser has been provided in PSS NETOMAC since version 13.5. This provides a

simplified view of the network structure and enables a "Navigation" in the network model.

To further improve usability, the network browser was provided with a function that enables it to

visualize the load flow results. The Select in Tabular View function can then be selected via the

pop-up menu in the diagram.

The following illustration shows conductor L16-19 selected. The connected topology then contains

the nodes of the conductor as well as the network elements connected to these nodes.

The Select in Tabular View function in the pop-up menu automatically sets a filter in Tabular View

for the load flow node results and the load flow branch results.

This filter causes precisely those results to be displayed that correspond to the topology shown in the

network browser. If the selection is changed in the network browser, the Tabular View can be

synchronized at any time via the new function. This enables the results for topological structures of

the network to be evaluated clearly.


Release Information

October 2017 50/59

3.1.2 Improvements in the Model Editor

In GMB models, special input blocks (NET_RE, NET) can access network variables in order to tap

the voltage and frequency at specific nodes in the network. In order for these kinds of accesses to

function, the model must be supplied with the correct data by the calling program (PSS SINCAL,

PSS NETOMAC or PSS E). However, this also means that the correct topology for the corresponding

input variables must be identified in the network. For this to be possible, variables must be defined in

the model which have the same name as the output of the block. The following illustration shows the

access to the voltage value of a remote node (RVMAG). The block has the output V2 and a variable

#V2.N must therefore be defined by which the user can identify the node.

The model editor was provided with a new function to simplify use of the network input variables.

Variables required for input blocks are generated automatically when they are created. The renaming

of the output for the block is also detected and the variables are then likewise renamed accordingly.

If combinations of variables are required (e.g. access to branches with #Var.N and #Var.B), it is

ensured that the variables are placed directly in sequence.

3.1.3 Debugging XMAC Models

This function is required to analyze problems in complex models. This enables the BOSL code of the

model to be executed in steps, as in a development environment, and the inputs and outputs of the

individual blocks analyzed.

Previously, debugging was only available for the MAC models, but now the graphical XMAC models

can also be analyzed in steps.

The controller debugging can be activated via the calculation parameters at Output – Control –

Diagnostics. To do this select Yes in the Controller Initial Conditions selection field.

If the option is active, the debugging is automatically activated on determining the start conditions of

a controller when a load flow calculation or a dynamic simulation is started.

The debugging is controlled here with the Simulation window, which provides all important context-

related functions. Debugging is started by selecting the required controller. Instead of selecting in

stages in dialog operation, the following selection is now provided:


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The XMAC model selected for debugging is displayed in the Model Editor. The calculated output

values for the block outputs are visualized and the active iteration is shown in the toolbar.

The right of the displayed calculation window shows general information on the controller. This

includes the type of controller and also its name. The actual iteration is also displayed.

All the actions for debugging are provided below this for selection in the form of radio buttons. The

following actions can be selected:

• Next iteration

The controller is run to the end of the next iteration and the block output values are displayed.

• Last iteration

The controller is run up to the last controller iteration, i.e. up to when this is convergent.

• Run to iteration

The number of the iteration up to which the controller is to run can be entered here.

• Select another controller

This enables a new controller to be selected for debugging. The currently debugged controller is

run up to the end and the controller selection is then displayed in the calculation tool window.


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• Proceed without debugging

This action ends debugging and the calculation is continued.

The selected action is executed either by clicking the Continue button or by pressing the F6 key.

This makes it possible to analyze the processing of the signals in the model and identify any

problems with feedback, limits or also other modeling errors.

3.1.4 Results Display in XMAC Models

Another new function in the Model Editor is the display of signals from a result file of a dynamic

simulation. The new function can be called via Model – Debug – Load Results. This shows a dialog

box in which a result file can be selected for visualizing.

In order to assign the signals from the result file, the controller type and also the name by which the

controller was used in the network model must be selected in the dialog box.

On closing the dialog box with OK, all appropriate signals from the result file are assigned and

displayed at the block outputs.

It is then possible via the toolbar to scroll through the time steps in the Model Editor in order to

examine the changes in the values of the block outputs. By visualizing directly in the model, it is

possible to make a good assessment of how the signals in the individual time steps of the simulation

were processed in the model. This can be particularly useful when examining the behavior of the

model with particular network states (e.g. malfunctions) because, unlike the plot in the diagram, the

interrelationship of the blocks is clearly indicated here.

All the block outputs recorded during dynamic simulation are visualized in the XMAC model.

However, it is normally the case that not all variables of a model are plotted. Firstly, because a lot of


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data would have to be recorded, and secondly, because manual definition is time consuming. The

visualization is therefore designed so that the data available in the result file is used. If the data of

block outputs is missing, nothing is displayed with these blocks.

3.1.5 Enhancements for Sections

With PSS NETOMAC 13.5 sections were introduced in order to better structure the input data. These

start with the ID [[Section]] and end either with [[End_Section]] or only with [[End]].

The following sections are defined (not case sensitive):

[[plot_header]]

[[plot_data]]

[[pzd_data]]

[[feeder]]

[[machines]]

[[torques]]

[[network]]

[[nonlinearities]]

[[models]]

[[models_during_loadflow]]

[[universal machines]]

[[models_in_2-system]]

[[models_in_0-system]]

[[extras_in_2-system]]

[[extras_in_0-system]]

[[simulation_events]]

[[loadflow_events]]

[[fault_elements]]

The use of the [[Sections]] is optional, i.e. the old standard input "E" termination as well as the

section selection ## can still be used.

To simplify the use of sections, the function was enhanced for the dialog box supported editing of

events (Calculate – Event Definition). It is now possible to edit DIS files with sections in the dialog

box.

Furthermore a new empty template project based on sections is provided.


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3.1.6 Copying of Diagram Formats

This new function enables the format settings of a signal in the diagram to be copied and transferred

to a different signal. For this the pop-up menu is opened in the source diagram at the legend of the

signal and the Copy function selected. The pop-up menu in the target diagram at the legend of the

required signal is opened and the Paste Format function is selected. All format settings of the

previously copied signal are transferred.

3.1.7 Enhanced Automation for Signal Export

The signals of result files of the simulation can be exported in multiple form with the export wizard in

the signal explorer of the PSS NETOMAC user interface. The export functions are also available via

the automation API of the user interface. However, the function for changing the result file was

previously not provided. This is particularly important if signals of variant calculations are to be

exported.

To rectify this problem, the new SignalFileName function was added to the automation API for

signals in the PSS NETOMAC user interface. This enables the result file to be defined.

The following snippet shows how the new function can be used:

' Get the signal export object of the project and evaluate the object

Dim NetoExport

Set NetoExport = NetoProject.GetSignalExport()

if NetoExport Is Nothing then

WScript.Echo "Error: Get signal export object failed!"

WScript.Quit

End if

' Set the export definition

NetoExport.ExportDefinition( "NETWORK" ) = "Default"

' Specify input, output and format

NetoExport.SignalFileName = "NETWORK.001"

NetoExport.FileName = "output"


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NetoExport.ExportFormat = "CSV"

'Excecute the export

NetoExport.DoExport

3.2 Calculation Methods

3.2.1 License Query in the Automation

A new automation method is provided, which makes it possible to query whether a license is present

for a specific calculation module. With automation solutions, this makes it possible to determine

whether a suitable license is available before calculation methods are used.

The following snippet shows how the license query is carried out:

' Get simulation server

Set Simulation = WScript.CreateObject( "Netomac.Simulation" )

If Simulation is Nothing Then


WScript.Quit

End If

' Get license state for module "LF"

Dim iState

iState = ptrNetoSim.CheckLicense( "EL", CStr("LF") )

If iState <> 0 Then

' TODO: Handle license errors

' -1 ... Common failure

' 1 ... License file does not exist

' 2 ... Invalid/wrong license file

' 3 ... Update of license information not possible

' 4 ... Start on this computer not possible

' 5 ... License expired

' 6 ... Start of the module not possible

End If

As shown in the code snippet, the check is carried out with the new CheckLicense function. The

calculation procedure to be examined is defined here either via the short name or the ENUM values

(Simulation_CalcType). The return value of the function corresponds to the license status of the

module.

3.2.2 New SCL Controller Type

PSS NETOMAC provides the new "Stator Current Limiter" (SCL) controller type which enables the

creation of models in accordance with IEEC standard 421.5_2016. The following section shows an

IEEEST6C controller which uses the SCL inputs:


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The new controller type can be used both in MAC models as well as in XMAC models. The output

values of the controller are then used in other controllers as input signals as with VOEL and VUEL.

This is accessed with the INPUT block for machine or GNE values:

Column Variable Unit Default Remarks

Type

Name1 Output name y

Name2 Identifier Available identifiers see table below

Name3 INPUT German: EINGANG

IDCOL Identifier of initial value processing Only if initial value is given in HZ3: Column 26, 27 = "Blank": Initial value is used only for first run. <> "Blank": Initial value is used during calculation of initial conditions.

HZ1 Multiplication factor for input value 1.

HZ2

HZ3 Initial value Will be multiplied by HZ1

HZ4 030000 Identifier

HZ5

HZ6

HZ7

HZ8

HZ9 Initial value processing = HOLD: The initial value is held constant during the integration

Izus

The following new signals can be used for the SCL controller via the Identifier field:

Variable Description

VSCL Output signal of a SCL controller (stator current limiter)

VSCLoel Output signal of a SCL controller for a OEL controller

VSCLuel Output signal of a SCL controller for a UEL controller

VSCL_ST Status of a SCL controller (0: not existing, 1: existing)

The new SCL controller can naturally be used in PSS NETOMAC and also in PSS SINCAL. For the

dynamic data of the machines, the stator current limiter (SCL controller) can also be assigned to the

controllers already present (voltage controller, speed controller, stabilizer, COM model, overvoltage

limiter, undervoltage limiter, turbine load model).


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3.2.3 Enhancements in Eigenvalue Analysis

Some enhancements have been implemented in the area of eigenvalue analysis, which enable it to

be better used in large networks. The implementation was in particular extensively revised and

optimized for the formation of the state matrix, so that the eigenvalue analysis function is up to 3x

faster in large networks than before.

Another key factor for simplifying the analysis of large networks and reducing the computation time is

the reduction in the number of modes. Models very often contain VZ1 elements with small time

constants for smoothing signals (mostly 0.01 seconds). These unnecessarily enlarge the QR matrix,

and there are also many additional multiple modes. The time constants < 0.5 ΔT are also eliminated

in the simulation. The new Min. Time Constant parameter can now be used to define for eigenvalue

analysis the minimum value from which time constants are ignored.

Another new function, specially implemented for the analysis of state variables, is provided in the

calculation window of the eigenvalue analysis. The evaluation of state variables supplies a tabular list

of the particular participation value of each state variable for all specified eigenvalues. It is therefore

clear that in large networks the data volume is extremely big.


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The diagram can be used to reduce the number of eigenvalues analyzed. In other words, only those

eigenvalues are considered that are visible in the diagram section of the S plane selected by the

user. However, this is still problematic if a large network contains for example 100,000 state

variables, which are all listed even if the participation is very small. In order to improve this, it is now

possible to enter the minimum participation in the Min. Participation entry field.

Since version 13.5, it has been possible after eigenvalue analysis with the NEVA controller to access

the results of the eigenvalue analysis with special blocks. The result values can then be used as a

basis for optimizations and also for the user's own evaluations. The blocks of eigenvalue have been

extended in order to enable loops with the DOLOOP block.

The following example shows a loop with the DOLOOP block via modes 1 to 5. Sigma and frequency

are then read out for each mode and written to the LST file.

$111111112222222233333333AA111111222222333333444444555555666666777778888899999ZZ

ONEVA NEVA N

mod DOLOOP 1 5 1

sig freq EigenVal mod

M

FORMAT mod sig freq

('SSSI ','mode ',' ',' ',F5.2 ,' ',F5.2 ,' ',

' ',F6.2)

FEND

ENDDO mod

ENDE

$111111112222222233333333AA111111222222333333444444555555666666777778888899999ZZ


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Output in the LST file:

SSSI mode 1.00 0.15 1.84

SSSI mode 2.00 -0.35 0.67

SSSI mode 3.00 -0.41 0.47

SSSI mode 4.00 -0.47 0.41

SSSI mode 5.00 -0.61 0.72

release notes 14 - simtecsincal.simtec.cc/14.0/releasenotes-eng.pdf · for the graphical model...

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