Lightning-induced voltages on complex distribution systems: models, advanced software tools and experimental validation

The evaluation and the analysis of the lightning electromagnetic pulse (LEMP) response of distribution networks require the availability of accurate models of LEMP-illuminated lines and their implementation into software tools able to calculate lightning-induced electromagnetic transients in distribution systems having complex configuration. This paper deals indeed with a computer code, LIOV (lightning induced overvoltage code), and with two interfaces recently realized between it and (a) the DCG/EPRI EMTP96 on the one hand and (b) the SimPowerSystems program in the Matlab–Simulink environment on the other hand. The aim of these interfaces is to extend the simulation capabilities of the LIOV code, which computes lightning-induced voltages on a single multiconductor transmission line above lossy ground, to the case of distribution systems characterized by complex yet realistic configurations. Models/code validation by means of a comparison with experimental results is also presented.