IEC TR 63363-1:2022 PDF

Overview

IEC TR 63363-1:2022 - Performance of VSC‑based HVDC transmission, Part 1: Steady‑state conditions is an IEC technical report that presents the current “state of the art” guidance on steady‑state performance expectations for two‑terminal Voltage‑Sourced Converter (VSC) HVDC transmission systems. It covers general steady‑state requirements, typical system configurations and the technical issues owners, contractors and suppliers should consider during system design, procurement and project implementation. This document is intended as a design and procurement guidance tool - not a prescriptive specification for a particular project.

Key topics and technical coverage

The report addresses the full range of steady‑state topics related to VSC HVDC systems, including:

• System configurations: symmetrical monopolar, asymmetrical monopolar (earth and metallic returns), bipolar (earth return, dedicated metallic return, rigid bipolar) and back‑to‑back arrangements.
• Steady‑state operation: PQ and UQ diagrams, reactive power exchange and steady‑state operating ranges.
• Rated characteristics: rated power, DC current and DC voltage considerations.
• Equipment capability and overload: guidance on converter valve capability, transformers, reactors and other station equipment.
• AC system interactions: AC voltage/frequency ranges, system impedance, sequence voltages and harmonic sources.
• HVDC components and lines: overhead lines, cables, electrode lines and earth electrodes.
• Control and communications: HVDC control objectives/structures, station/pole control, valve control, measurement and fast telecommunication requirements.
• Power quality and interference: AC/DC harmonics, PLC interference, radio‑frequency interference (RFI).
• Auxiliary systems and reliability: auxiliary power, UPS, batteries, mechanical auxiliaries and operational reliability.
• Other practical items: switching/reconfiguration, audible noise, power losses and testing/measurement needs.

Practical applications and users

IEC TR 63363-1 is designed for:

• Grid owners and asset managers drafting technical requirements and acceptance criteria.
• Project engineers and system designers developing system‑level steady‑state designs and interfaces.
• Procurement specialists and spec writers preparing procurement documents or coordinating multi‑vendor supply of converter stations and DC transmission assets.
• Contractors and vendors aligning equipment capabilities and control/telecom interfaces with system performance objectives.
• Consultants and regulatory bodies assessing steady‑state performance, power quality and grid interactions.

Use cases include preparing tender specifications, defining interface requirements for separately procured subsystems, and guiding coordination between converter stations and AC networks.

Related standards

• IEC 62747 - referenced for major components and the definition of an HVDC substation/converter station. For authoritative access and the latest updates consult the IEC Webstore.