Overview
IEC TS 63529:2026 - DC Side Harmonics & Filtering in HVDC Transmission Systems is a technical specification developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This document provides essential guidance for the design and management of harmonics and filtering on the DC side of high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems. The specification addresses both line commutated converters (LCC) and voltage sourced converters (VSC), highlights the sources and impacts of harmonic generation, and outlines robust approaches to modeling, mitigating, and specifying harmonic performance and filter requirements.
Harmonics produced by switching actions within HVDC converters can span a wide frequency range, influencing not only power system equipment but also nearby telecommunication infrastructure. The technical specification’s scope primarily covers harmonics up to 5,000 Hz, emphasizing their interactions, control, and mitigation within HVDC projects while considering interface impacts with adjacent AC systems.
Key Topics
IEC TS 63529:2026 addresses multiple critical areas, including:
- Harmonic Generation: Describes DC side harmonic sources associated with both LCC and VSC HVDC technologies and explains cross-modulation from the AC side.
- Modeling and Analysis: Provides methodologies for harmonic studies, including approaches for time and frequency domain analysis, harmonic current calculations, and DC/AC system modeling.
- Telecommunication Interference: Outlines assessment and mitigation of inductive coupling between DC lines and telecommunication cables, addressing the risk of induced voltages and noise.
- Filter Design: Details design and rating considerations for DC filters, different filter topologies, configuration, and operational modes to effectively manage DC side harmonics.
- Harmonic Performance Limits: Specifies procedures and criteria for setting harmonic and induced noise limits based on international standards and field practices.
- Mitigation Measures: Discusses strategies for minimizing harmonic impacts, including filter deployment, optimized equipment selection, and interface actions with telecommunication lines.
- Operational and Safety Considerations: Considers performance during abnormal conditions, requirements for protection, reliability, loss management, and safety aspects linked to harmonic currents.
Applications
IEC TS 63529:2026 is highly relevant for the following applications:
- HVDC System Design and Upgrades: Provides engineers and designers with harmonics analysis and mitigation strategies crucial for reliable and compliant HVDC infrastructure.
- Filter Specification and Procurement: Assists procurement professionals and equipment manufacturers in setting technical requirements for DC filters in alignment with global best practices.
- Telecommunications Protection: Guides utilities and consultants in assessing and protecting nearby telecommunication and signaling assets from HVDC-induced disturbances.
- Regulatory Compliance: Supports stakeholders in meeting international performance standards and licensing criteria, especially concerning electromagnetic interference and public safety.
- Hybrid and Modern HVDC Installations: Informs the adaptation of harmonic control approaches for LCC, VSC, and hybrid converter topologies, as well as cable and overhead line systems.
- Grid Integration and Expansion: Ensures effective planning and integration of HVDC links into existing AC networks and evolving multi-terminal HVDC grids.
Related Standards
IEC TS 63529:2026 is complemented by several related international standards and guidelines, including:
- IEC 61000 Series: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards for harmonics and system disturbances
- IEC 61803: Guidance on the installation and operation of HVDC transmission systems
- IEC 60071 Series: Insulation coordination for high-voltage systems
- IEEE and ITU-T Recommendations: Noise and induced voltage limits for telecommunication interference
- IEC 60725: Reference impedances for harmonic emission testing
- IEC 60283: Testing requirements for power cables and accessories
By following IEC TS 63529:2026 and associated standards, engineers and project teams can ensure HVDC transmission systems are harmonically robust, operationally safe, and compliant with international performance and compatibility requirements. This enhances system longevity, supports reliable energy transmission, and safeguards adjacent critical infrastructure.