Introduction of the Mechanically Switched Capacitors (MSCs) application on Power Transmission Systems

Power Transmission Systems have predominantly inductive loads, so that the systems themselves must supply the reactive power consumed. The most practical and efficient way for the utility to supply the reactive power demanded is through the installation of Mechanically Switched Capacitors (MSCs), more common know as shunt capacitor banks. The installation of MSCs brings benefits concerning the reduction of system charging and electrical losses, system capacity release and also improvements in the power factor. The main purpose of this work is to present the introduction of the MSCs application on Power Transmission Systems. This introduction will be realized simulating power system conditions using the ATP (Alternative Transient Program) tool, analyzing the MSC energization, dimensioning and capacitors units' lifetime, aiming to be a knowledge support paper for future applications. The final conclusion of the work presents the importance of the Mechanically Switched Capacitors (MSCs) to a transmission system and a complete introduction of the main aspects for the equipments dimensioning and energization, contributing for the quality of the power transmission system.