This chapter presents, initially, the theory of scale models. Then, methods for simulating the electromagnetic environment, as well as various power system components, namely overhead lines, transformers and surge arresters are described, and details are given on the reduced system implemented at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The last part of the chapter is dedicated to the application of the technique for the evaluation of lightning transients, with emphasis on the analysis of lightning-induced voltages on overhead power distribution lines. The versatility of the scale model technique is demonstrated and examples are presented that illustrate its usefulness in the analysis of complex phenomena, either for enabling the evaluation of situations that are not worthwhile to be treated theoretically or for giving adequate support for the validation of theoretical models and relevant computer codes.

Chapter Contents:

• 19.1 Introduction
• 19.2 Basis of scale modelling
• 19.3 Simulation of the electromagnetic environment
• 19.3.1 Return stroke channel
• 19.3.2 Ground
• 19.3.3 Overhead lines
• 19.3.4 Transformers
• 19.3.5 Surge arresters
• 19.3.6 Buildings
• 19.4 Evaluation of lightning surges in power lines
• 19.4.1 Surges associated with direct strokes
• 19.4.2 Surges associated with indirect strokes
• 19.4.2.1 Validation of theoretical models
• 19.4.2.2 Analysis of complex situations
• 19.5 Conclusions
• Acknowledgements
• References

Inspec keywords: atmospheric techniques; lightning; power overhead lines; arresters; power engineering computing; lightning protection; transient analysis; geophysics computing; power transmission protection; transformer protection

Other keywords: electromagnetic environment; transformers; overhead lines; surge arresters; overhead power distribution lines; lightning-induced voltages; lightning transients; computer code; power systems

Subjects: Atmospheric electricity; Power engineering computing; Geophysics computing; Instrumentation and techniques for geophysical, hydrospheric and lower atmosphere research; Transformers and reactors; Overhead power lines; Protection apparatus; Other topics in Earth sciences; Power transmission, distribution and supply; Atmospheric, ionospheric and magnetospheric techniques and equipment