Meetings aimed at testing design criteria for the system’s control and protection architecture, together with resistance tests under extreme load conditions for the towers, were some of the topics worked on by the technical delegation.
A key international collaboration work for the project that will transport clean energy contributing to the fulfillment of Chile’s decarbonization goals, efficiency and stability of the National Electric System (SEN).
In a trip to Nanjing, China, professionals of the company Conexión Kimal-Lo Aguirre, reviewed the methodology for the realization of real-time simulations of the control and operation of power transmission systems with HVDC (direct current) technology. This technology, pioneer in its application in Chile, is the one that will be used in the new transmission line that will contribute to take advantage of the clean energies that are being generated in the north of the country, and that today cannot be used due to lack of infrastructure.
The professionals, who were at the facilities of the Asian company NR Electric – leader in solutions for electrical systems with projects in more than 30 countries – held a series of technical meetings aimed at defining design criteria for the control and protection architecture of the system, specifically in the implementation of the converter substations located in the communes of María Elena (Kimal) and Pudahuel (Lo Aguirre).
In this regard, Rodrigo Arias, Connection’s Electrical Studies Specialist, commented that topics such as the layout of panels, review of plans and methodology for testing with real-time systems (RTDS) were discussed. “This instance was key to further strengthen the technical skills of our experts, focusing on the challenges associated with the operation of the first HVDC project in Chile and facilitating a valuable exchange with our international peers,” said Arias.
Simultaneously, load tests are being carried out in Gujarat, India, to validate the structural design of the transmission towers to be used in our country. These tests are being carried out under extreme load conditions, thus confirming the strength and efficiency of the structures by overcoming all applied load hypotheses, including vertical, transverse and longitudinal loads. These measurements are key to ensuring that the structures will meet operational requirements throughout their service life.
“These milestones are relevant in that they help us to ensure higher quality and durability of the key infrastructure for this project. In addition, working together with other international experts allows us to develop a robust and sustainable transmission system, aligned with Chile’s decarbonization goals,” said Fabián Rojas, LLTT Engineering Coordinator, after both exercises.
The company adds that these advances in the implementation of direct current technology not only optimize the efficiency of the SEN, but also facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. This is because the project opens up new opportunities to transport clean energy from renewable generation areas on a large scale, contributing to the fulfillment of Chile’s decarbonization goals.
About Kimal-Lo Aguirre Connection
Company formed to develop, build and operate the first direct current electric transmission line: Kimal-Lo Aguirre. It is a 1,346-kilometer transmission line that will operate in direct current and will enable significant flows of renewable energy by transporting up to 3,000 MW of power, equivalent to a quarter of the daily demand.
