Design of HVDC converter stations with respect to audible noise requirements

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the engineering methods, tools, design solutions and verification methods used in the design of HVDC converter substations subject to acoustic requirements. The sound generation section of the paper describes how the sound power level radiated from electrical components can be calculated based on the load. The sound propagation section describes how the sources affect the sound pressure level at emission points of interest. A method to break down the acoustic requirement to the component level and practical studies to verify the concordance with the requirements are also illustrated. Different solutions for screening and absorption are described as well as measurement methods. The paper also describes a working method used to fulfil outdoor acoustic requirements