Electromagnetic Environment Measurement under Steady-State Conditions in Utility Substations

Electrical power substations use to be characterized as powerful electromagnetic environments. Electric and magnetic fields are generated during all operational conditions, even under steady-state system operation and can damage installed sensitive electronic devices. In this paper a pilot-substation is evaluated in order to verify how electromagnetic fields are distributed inside its installation. Steady state electromagnetic fields are evaluated. Grounding integrity is verified and high frequency electromagnetic field generated by a radio-base station is measured, in order to characterize electromagnetic environment inside a utility substation. Electromagnetic compatibility standards and procedures are referred. Significant RF effects are detected and commented under EMC point of view