Reliability Calculations for Capacitor Banks

The reliability of high voltage power capacitor banks has been analyzed using a statistical model based on the failure intensity of the single capacitor element. The expected lifetime of the bank is obtained by computer simulation of element failure sequences leading to bank failure according to a preselected criterion. The computer program can be applied for practically any bank or unit configuration and protection system. It is well-suited for direct comparisons of the performances of different banks. Simulations of banks equipped with internal and external fuses show that the former in general offer longer lifetime and better availability.