MHD-EMP Analysis and Protection

Abstract

A large nuclear detonation at altitudes of several hundred kilometers above the earth distorts the earth's magnetic field and produces a strong magnetohydrodynamic-electromagnetic pulse (MHD-EMP). MHD-EMP is similar to solar geomagnetic storms in its global and low frequency (less than 1 Hz) nature except that it can be more intense with a shorter duration. It will induce quasi-dc currents in long lines. The MHD-EMP induced currents may cause large voltage fluctuations and severe harmonic distortion in commercial electric power systems. Several MHD-EMP coupling models for predicting the induced current on a wide variety of conducting structures are described, various simulation concepts are summarized, and-the results from several MHD-EMP tests are presented. To mitigate the effects of MHD-EMP on a facility, long conductors must be isolated from the building, and the commercial power harmonics and voltage swings must be addressed. It is found that facilities can be protected against MHD-EMP by using methods which are consistent with standard engineering practices. MHD-EMP interaction Analysis, Power Line Model, MHD-EMP Protection Guidelines, Transformer Test.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1993
Accession Number
ADA269647

Entities

People

  • Ben W. Mcconnell
  • Edward F. Vance
  • Fred M. Tesche
  • Paul R. Barnes

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Altitude
  • Communication Systems
  • Department Of Homeland Security
  • Electromagnetic Fields
  • Electromagnetic Pulses
  • Engineering
  • Frequency
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Magnetic Storms
  • Power Distribution
  • Power Transformers
  • Simulations
  • Standards
  • Telephone Lines
  • Transmission Lines
  • Varistors
  • War Colleges

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Space/Atmospheric Physics.