Overview
IEC TR 63127:2019 - "Guideline for the system design of HVDC converter stations with line‑commutated converters" - is a technical report from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that provides practical guidance for the system design of HVDC converter stations using line‑commutated converter (LCC) technology. Applicable to both point‑to‑point and back‑to‑back HVDC systems, it is intended for use by purchasers and suppliers and can serve as the basis for drafting a procurement specification and for guiding project implementation.
Key Topics and Technical Requirements
The report covers end‑to‑end system design topics and essential technical requirements, including:
- System design framework: formulation of design, ratings (power, voltage, current), and configuration choices for poles, return paths and DC switchyards.
- AC/DC interaction and control: control strategies, AC bus voltage and frequency conditions, and modelling for dynamic/transient studies.
- Reactive power compensation and control: calculation of reactive consumption, sizing of reactive power equipment and control/voltage exchange methods.
- Insulation coordination: procedures and considerations to ensure reliable dielectric performance.
- Harmonic filtering and RFI/PLC filters: AC and DC filter design, power‑line carrier (PLC) filter considerations, and mitigation of radio‑frequency interference.
- Main equipment parameters: guidance on converter valves, converter transformers, smoothing reactors, bushings, and filter equipment ratings, losses and testing needs.
- System studies and simulations: AC system equivalents, harmonic resonance studies, transient and dynamic modelling for design validation.
- DC transmission elements: parameters for overhead DC lines, DC cables, electrode lines and ground electrodes.
- Project implementation support: annexes with typical manufacturing tolerances and technical parameters for equipment specification (Annex A & B).
Practical Applications
IEC TR 63127:2019 is used to:
- Prepare detailed procurement specifications for HVDC converter stations based on LCC technology.
- Guide system studies, simulations and validation of AC/DC interactions during project design.
- Size and specify reactive compensation, filters, smoothing reactors and transformer ratings.
- Inform insulation coordination, harmonic mitigation and EMC/RFI planning.
- Support engineering, testing and commissioning activities during implementation.
Who Should Use This Standard
- HVDC system designers and principal engineers
- Utilities and transmission system operators procuring HVDC links
- Converter and equipment manufacturers (transformers, valves, filters)
- Consulting engineers, protection and control specialists
- Project managers and procurement teams developing technical specifications
Related Standards
IEC TR 63127:2019 complements other IEC publications on HVDC and electrotechnical equipment. It is best used alongside applicable IEC standards and national regulations when preparing specifications and performing system studies.
Keywords: IEC TR 63127:2019, HVDC converter stations, line‑commutated converters, LCC, system design, procurement specification, reactive power, harmonic filtering, insulation coordination, converter transformer, smoothing reactor.