πŸ“‹ Case Study

Hornsea Project Three HVDC Substation Layout Reconfiguration

Space constraints forced relocation of AC/DC conversion equipment into single monopile, increasing electromagnetic interference (EMI) risk to control systems

πŸ—οΈ Project Overview

2.4 GW UK North Sea development (Ørsted)

🎯 Challenge

Space constraints forced relocation of AC/DC conversion equipment into single monopile, increasing electromagnetic interference (EMI) risk to control systems

πŸ”§ Design Approach

Full-wave 3D EM simulation (CST Studio Suite) + shielded fiber-optic I/O architecture + Faraday-cage partitioning of valve hall and control rooms

πŸ“ Design Diagram

Monopile (Ø8.5m) Valve Hall Faraday Cage Control Room Shielded Converter EMI Risk ↑ (82 dB @ 1 kHz) SE = 82 dB @ 1 kHz Shielded FO I/O 3D Full-Wave EM Simulation (CST)

AI-generated project design illustration

πŸ“ Key Calculations

Shielding Effectiveness

SE(dB) = 20 log(E_incident/E_transmitted)
Result: 82 dB @ 1 kHz
Exceeded IEC 61000-4-8 immunity requirement by 22 dB

πŸ“Š Results

Zero EMI-induced trip events during 12-month commissioning; achieved SIL-3 functional safety certification

πŸ’‘ Lessons Learned

  • β€’EM simulation must include realistic grounding grid impedance
  • β€’Shielding effectiveness degrades significantly at cable entry points β€” require conductive gland systems

βœ… Key Takeaways

  • 1EM simulation must include realistic grounding grid impedance
  • 2Shielding effectiveness degrades significantly at cable entry points β€” require conductive gland systems