In the field, lightning strikes and other extreme events can push the power infrastructure to its limits. To ensure safe operation, tests can be carried out using high-voltage generators.
The High Voltage Technology (HVT) research and teaching unit is actively involved in developing new solutions for the energy transition. Here, three members of the team give an insight into their day-to-day work.
Through your research, you are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the energy sector. But where did you start? Alexandra, what subjects were you interested in at school and what happened then?
‘My journey into the energy sector began when I was still at school. From an early age, I had a strong interest in scientific subjects, especially physics and mathematics. When I was at school, my secondary school had a direct cooperation programme with the university where I later completed my Bachelor’s degree. As part of this programme, we were able to attend additional courses after school, which allowed us to get to know different aspects and types of STEM subjects better. I had always been fascinated by physics, but I soon realised that I wanted to study engineering. What ultimately led me to electrical engineering was my desire to solve real-world problems and drive innovation.’
A test bench has been set up for electrical engineering and information technology students to put their theoretical knowledge to the test.
The rapid transformation of the energy system is creating new challenges. Electricity highways such as Südlink and Südostlink will transport electricity from onshore and offshore wind farms from the north to all parts of Germany. They will use high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission. You are researching insolation systems under direct current load. What are the advantages of direct current (DC) over alternating current (AC)? And why is a reliable isolation system so important?
‘Projects such as Südlink and Südostlink use high-voltage direct current (HVDC) to transport electricity efficiently over long distances. HVDC has the advantage over alternating current that it offers lower transmission losses, higher transmission capacities and improved grid stability. In addition, HVDC can be easily integrated into existing grids. A reliable insulation system is essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of the entire transmission system. In addition to withstanding the high loads associated with stationary power transmission, the insulation must also be able to withstand short-term transients of overvoltage. The correct functioning of the insulation system is critical to the proper operation of the entire energy system, as critical infrastructure such as power cables, converters and power transformers require a properly functioning insulation system. Our research focuses on optimising these systems to increase the reliability and lifetime of transmission networks, ultimately supporting the energy transition.’
One application for the MMC test bed is the safe and ‘intelligent’ integration of electricity from offshore wind farms into the onshore transmission grid. Eight laboratory-scale modular multilevel converters (MMCs) enable the simulation of different systems and scenarios in real time, making it possible to plan the implementation of the energy transition.
In a vision of the future, we will be driving autonomous cars that we charge with renewable electricity from the ‘smart grid’. From your research perspective, what demands will be placed on the electricity grid? What groundbreaking developments are you working on? And what projects are you most excited about?
‘The electricity grid must meet many requirements to ensure a reliable and efficient supply of energy. In our research area, we work on different aspects of the energy transition, divided into the Insulation Systems, Primary Technology and Diagnostics and DC Systems teams. This allows us to cover both the ‘big picture’ of the grid and the ‘small picture’ of the critical components in the grid. With today’s focus on the new green power system of renewable energy and environmentally friendly circuit breakers, we are working on exciting projects that will enable this transformation. These include DC switches for DC systems and advanced environmentally friendly insulation systems for various applications. Another important aspect of our work is the integration of new technologies into existing systems to ensure a smooth transition. What I find particularly exciting are projects that deal with the further development and adaptation of existing equipment in the context of the energy transition. This work helps to ensure that the existing electricity system continues to operate efficiently and reliably, while at the same time driving the transition to renewable energy and modern technologies.’
From left: Verena West is researching new types of circuit breakers as components of a meshed AC grid. Aleksandra Wiecha is researching the lifetime of insulation systems in the context of distributed energy generation and supply.
Your research will cover a broad spectrum from modern electrical systems to control and protection concepts for future power grids. You have a state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure at your disposal. Verena, what is a typical working day like? What other aspects of the job are important? How important is teamwork and other soft skills?
‘In the mornings, I start at least an hour before I start working with the students (final year students and student assistants) in the lab. During this time, I deal with my emails and try to find time to work on my thesis topic. When the students arrive, we go through the plan for the lab day and I give them the go-ahead to start their experiments. Then I go back to my desk and work on various projects, analysing the results of experiments or working on my dissertation. If there are problems in the lab, I help out. Teamwork is very important to me, because you can’t get very far in the lab without working together. The support and guidance from experienced colleagues is very helpful. As the work as a research assistant covers many different topics, the ability to quickly familiarise yourself with new problems is also extremely important, as is good time management.’
Sarah’s research focuses on the protection of AC lines in the transmission grid as the share of renewable energy increases.
Diversity and equal opportunities are core values in your team. Sarah, what does work-life balance mean to you personally and do you live it?
‘Work-life balance is a popular trend these days. In addition to my professional life, I regularly commute between my home in Bavaria and Aachen. This situation poses a particular challenge when it comes to finding the perfect balance. I have learnt that work-life balance does not necessarily mean an equal division of time between work and private life. It is more about setting priorities and making compromises in order to integrate both areas in the best possible way. It’s important to define what work-life balance means to you individually, rather than following general trends. To balance my professional and personal responsibilities, I rely on clear prioritisation and good organisation. I consciously make time for sport, activities with family and friends, travel and also periods of rest to ensure a sustainable balance. The support of my environment plays an important role in this. Of course, there are periods when one area requires more attention than the other, but overall I always strive for balance.’
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