Research on optimization and safety calibration of hydropower station grounding system

Abstract In power systems, grounding systems are crucial for ensuring the safe operation of electrical equipment and personnel safety. This paper integrates the underwater grounding grid in front of the dam reservoir, dam - foundation grounding grid, tail - water and downstream underwater grounding grid, and powerhouse grounding grid based on the actual layout of a hydropower station’s grounding grid. After connecting these components to form an integrated grounding grid, the grounding conductors are modeled, and a soil model is built using actual soil resistance test results, thus establishing an accurate hydropower station grounding model. This study constructs precise grounding models using Current Distribution, Electromagnetic Fields, Grounding and Soil Structure Analysis (CDEGS) software and the Alternative Transients Program - Electromagnetic Transients Program (ATP - EMTP) simulations, integrating theoretical calculations and practical case studies to analyze resistance reduction measures, ground fault current calculations, and safety verification for hydropower station grounding systems. Comprehensive isolation protection measures are proposed, providing scientific guidance for enhancing the stability and safety of hydropower stations. The findings offer valuable insights for the design and optimization of hydropower grounding systems.