Optimal geometric configurations for mitigation of magnetic fields of underground power lines

In this article, a nonlinear optimization problem for calculating the optimal configuration of underground power lines is proposed. In the analysis, considerations of geometry, economy and maximum magnetic field are taken into account. The cable bundles are allowed to be placed freely in the available space to achieve the most economical configuration. Real test cases are used to evaluate the methodology. Based on the results, it is observed that the rotation of the cables is important to improve interaction and decrease the magnetic field in desired locations. These rotations can be obtained simply through the appropriate manipulation of the cables during the construction phase. Negligible magnetic fields can be obtained in the measurement plane when the optimal geometrical configuration is used. Sensitively analyses are performed in the solution, for evaluating the effect of differences in angles and modules of the currents in the cables.