Direct supply of a large pulsed load from the e.h.v. transmission network

The paper describes the results of design studies examining the possibility of supplying a large pulsating load of ±160MW directly from the national Grid. The pulse load considered is that of the proposed 300 GeV European particle accelerator; however, the study treatment and results are also relevant to the more general problem of step load and generation changes and their effect on power-system operation and design. Several methods of suppression of the pulse-induced voltage fluctuation are outlined and an account is given of the theoretical investigations into the expected dynamic behaviour of the power system when subjected to a cyclic pulse load of this magnitude. Practical support tests on the supply system are described and the collaborative tests with Électricité de France and other Continental supply systems, via the cable across the English Channel, are given special emphasis. The novel application of time-series-analysis techniques to frequency measurement is also demonstrated. The results of the study show that the direct connection of such a pulse load to the public-supply network is a practical possibility.