Annual report 2010-11_eng

Central Power Research Institute
Annual Report2010-11
CPRI
Prof. Sir.C.V.Raman Road,
P.B.No. 8066,
Bangalore – 560 080,
India.
Phone: 080-2360 2919/2360 1905
Fax: 080-2360 1213/2360 2277
www.cpri.in

Annual Report, 2010-11
Central Power Research Institute 3
FOREWORD
The performance of CPRI during the year 2010-11 has
surpassed all earlier records. The year also celebrated year long
Golden Jubilee Year and it is my privilege to be part of
valedictory of the Golden Jubilee celebrations on 16th
January
2011 which was celebrated in a befitting manner. On the
occasion, former Director Generals and Directors were
felicitated by Sri P. Uma Shankar, Secretary (Power) in the
presence of Dr. P Balaram, Director of Indian Institute of
Science, Bangalore.
On the revenue front, the performance during the year
exceeded all records. The revenue earning for the year stood
at Rs.139.71 Crores against the corresponding revenue
earnings of Rs.96.00 Crores for the year 2009-10 registering a
growth of 45%. The expenditure of the Institute for 2010-11
was Rs.139.56 Crores after making provision of an amount of Rs.59.00 Crores towards
Superannuation fund and Rs.22.01 crores for depreciation.
In our pursuit to offer best services and for meeting the requirements of the dynamic power
sector, the Institute has been augmenting its facilities and also setting up of new test
facilities in line with growing needs of the power sector of the country. During the year, a
new Mobile facility has been set up for testing performance of Thermal Power Stations at site
which caters to performance studies on Coal, ESP and Boilers. CPRI has also added 50 MVA
Short Circuit Generator which is completely indigenous. The other important Test Facilities
which are under implementation are:
Establishment of 800kV AC and DC Transmission System at UHVRL, CPRI, Hyderabad.
Augmentation of Power Transformers and Switchgear Test facilities at High Power
Laboratory, CPRI, Bangalore
A unique facility for testing of EMI/EMC and LED test facilities
CPRI has ventured in many new areas as the Third Party independent Evaluation Agency –
Energy Accounting (TPIA-EA) for the state of Karnataka and the SCADA-DMS consultant for
the State of Andhra Pradesh under the R-APDRP program of Govt. of India. As a Consultant
for the first Smart Grid Pilot Project in India we have prepared, the DPR for implementation
of the Smart Grid in the Electronic City area for Bangalore City in association with BESCOM
under US Aid project.
During the year 2010-11 the Institute undertook over 120 Consultancy assignments covering
the areas of Generation, Transmission & Distribution. Some of the important assignments
were Tower design validation for Kerala State Electricity Board, Chattisgarh State Electricity
Board, Punjab State Transmission Company etc. Condition monitoring of power equipments
for various power utilities and power station related field services, Energy Audit services.
Under UNIDO, project on eradication of Persistent Organic Pollutants, CPRI has created a
National data and also Awareness Program on harmful aspects of Persistent Organic
Pollutants.
The Institute as a “Management Consultant” is actively working towards establishing of on-
line test Station for testing Large Power Transformers at Bina, Madhya Pradesh being
executed by National High Power Test Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., a Joint Venture Company of
PGCIL, NTPC, NHPC and DVC.
The laboratories of the Institute continued to be accredited under ISO 17025 for testing and
ISO 9001 for Research Schemes. The Institute also continued its accreditation under INTER
TEK, ASTA and is a Member of prestigious Short Circuit Testing Liaison (STL).

4 Central Power Research Institute
In the area of Research & Development, 20 projects were under investigation and 5 projects
have been completed under In-house research projects. Under the Research Scheme on
Power, 20 projects under investigation and 7 projects have been completed. Under National
Perspective Plan research projects, 10 projects were under implementation and 3 projects
have been completed.
The officers of the Institute participated in National & International Conferences & Seminars
and presented 144 technical papers which were well appreciated by the technical fraternity,
as against 107 papers during the corresponding year 2009-10. The Institute has filed 3
patents during the year.
CPRI conducted 50, a multitude of continuing Educational Programmes during the year
covering Seminars/Workshops/Tutorials/Training Programmes, which include one Training
Programme on maintenance & Testing of Power equipments for engineers from Utilities. At
the International level, Training Programmes on MV/HV Cable Testing, Reactive Power
Compensation at Kuala Lampur, Malaysia were organized.
CPRI aspires to be the best Laboratory in the world and this would happen with the active
and continued support of Ministry of Power.
I look forward for very good performance in the coming years.
(N.Murugesan)
Director General

Contents
Members of CPRI Governing Council as on 31st
March, 2011 .....................................9
Organisation..............................................................................................................11
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 12
Objectives of CPRI..................................................................................................................................... 12
Management ............................................................................................................................................. 13
About the organisation............................................................................................................................... 13
The Central Research and Testing Laboratory, Bangalore .......................................................... 16
SwitchgearTesting and Development Station, Bhopal ................................................................ 16
Regional Testing Laboratory, Noida.......................................................................................... 16
Thermal Research Centre, Nagpur ........................................................................................... 16
UHV Research Laboratory, Hyderabad...................................................................................... 17
Regional Testing Laboratory, Kolkata ....................................................................................... 17
Regional Testing Laboratory, Guwahati .................................................................................... 17
Units and their activities............................................................................................................................. 17
Central Research and Testing Laboratory (CRTL), Bangalore ..................................................... 17
Switchgear Testing and Development Station, Bhopal ............................................................... 22
Regional Testing Laboratory, Noida.......................................................................................... 22
Thermal Research Centre, Nagpur ........................................................................................... 22
Ultra High Voltage Research Laboratory (UHVRL), Hyderabad.................................................... 23
Regional Testing Laboratory, Kolkata ....................................................................................... 23
Regional Testing Laboratory, Guwahati .................................................................................... 23
Research and Development.......................................................................................25
In-house research projects......................................................................................................................... 26
Ongoing In-house research projects......................................................................................... 26
Completed In-house research projects ..................................................................................... 32
Research Scheme on Power (RSoP) projects ............................................................................................... 34
Ongoing RSoP projects............................................................................................................ 34
Completed RSoP Projects ........................................................................................................ 38
National Perspective Plan Research Projects ...........................................................43
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 44
Development of silt erosion resistant material for turbines of hydro generators ............................................. 44
National effort to develop technology for custom power devices (STATCOM)................................................. 46
Development of High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) distribution transformers..................................... 49
To develop a prototype of 132 kV optical current transformer for use in the 132 kV system ........................... 51
Development of silt erosion resistant nano-composite coatings..................................................................... 52
Tunneling in water charge zones under high hydro static pressure................................................................ 53
Development of DVR based voltage source stabilizers for process industry.................................................... 54
Improvement in reliability, safety and long term performance of power and converter transformers ............... 56
A study on stability & reliability of the power system with large penetration of wind power ............................ 56
Design and development of high temperature Superconducting Fault Current Limiter (SFCL) ......................... 57
Evaluation and Certification......................................................................................59
New testing facilities .................................................................................................................................. 60
Conversion of 2500 MVA generator into motor less system........................................................ 60
Climatic ageing facility for aerial bundled cable accessories ....................................................... 60
Expansion of Device Language Message Specification (DLMS) lab setup..................................... 61
Smart Grid.............................................................................................................................. 61
Mobile diagnostic facility.......................................................................................................... 62
Evaluation distance relays on RTDS.......................................................................................... 63
Short time over current test..................................................................................................... 63
Glow wire test ........................................................................................................................ 64
Special tests conducted.............................................................................................................................. 64
Evaluation highlights.................................................................................................................................. 65
Evaluation Of Equipment For Overseas Customers:...................................................................................... 66
Consultancy Activities ...............................................................................................69
Energy audit services................................................................................................................................. 70
Tower design validation ............................................................................................................................. 70
R-APDRP Programme................................................................................................................................. 70

Remaining Life Assessment studies............................................................................................................. 71
Stress measurements on rail wheel components ....................................................................... 71
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) study on cooling water intake sump.................................. 72
Witnessing of initial capacity test ............................................................................................. 72
Development and evaluation of high strength concrete ............................................................. 72
Failure analysis of Re-heater tubes........................................................................................... 73
Power System Studies................................................................................................................................ 74
Sub-Synchronous Resonance (SSR) studies .............................................................................. 74
Dynamic testing of distance protection relay P 546 ................................................................... 74
Testing of 2.5 MVAR STATCOM................................................................................................ 74
Soil resistivity measurement .................................................................................................... 74
Protection audit and study of DTL transmission system ............................................................. 75
125MVA, 220kV/ 33kV transformer charging studies for M/s. Reliance Infrastructure Ltd., Mumbai75
Measurement of soil resistivity of earth resistance for Terec+Electrode for M/s. SGI Engineers Pvt., Ltd.,
Bangalore............................................................................................................................... 75
Measurement of earth resistance at Koteshwar hydro electric project for M/s THDCIL, Tehri ....... 75
Load flow and stability study for Synchronization of 600 MW thermal units to KPTCL Grid ........... 75
Condition monitoring and diagnostic tests ................................................................................................... 76
Grounding studies...................................................................................................................................... 77
Power station related field services ............................................................................................................. 77
Special Consultancy activities ..................................................................................................................... 79
National Implementation Plan on POP’s – PCB’s........................................................................................... 80
Promotional Activities ...............................................................................................81
CPRI on internet........................................................................................................................................ 82
CPRI participation in National and International exhibitions .......................................................................... 82
India International Trade Fair – 2010....................................................................................... 82
India Electricity 2010............................................................................................................... 83
ELASIA 2011........................................................................................................................... 84
Energy and Power India (EPI) 2011 ......................................................................................... 85
WETEX 2011........................................................................................................................... 85
Advertisements released during the year..................................................................................................... 86
Important persons/foreign delegations visiting CPRI .................................................................................... 87
Training activities......................................................................................................93
Seminars/Conferences/Workshops/............................................................................................................. 94
Training Programmes organised by CPRI during 2010-2011 ......................................................................... 94
Training of CPRI staff................................................................................................................................. 97
Lectures delivered ................................................................................................................................... 116
Capital Projects .......................................................................................................121
Physical progress of capital projects.......................................................................................................... 123
Modernisation of the Short Circuit test facilities and augmentation of the power transformer test facilities
........................................................................................................................................... 123
Modernisation and augmentation of the Switch-gear test facilities at CPRI, Bangalore............... 124
Augmentation of test facilities for optimization of the 800 kV AC and 800 kV DC transmission systems 124
Centre for excellence for Lifecycle Management and Condition assessment of high voltage substation and
power plant electrical equipment ........................................................................................... 125
Setting up test facilities for a Pre-Qualification test on 400 kV XLPE cable system ..................... 126
Centre for Excellence for Dielectric studies ............................................................................. 126
Mechanical Strength Test facility............................................................................................ 127
Centre for Creep and Mechanical testing ................................................................................ 127
Centre for Advanced energy research in the areas of Energy efficiency and Energy audit .......... 127
Collaborative Research on emerging technologies ................................................................... 128
Quality Accreditation for new facilities and business development for CPRI............................... 128
Augmentation of High voltage, Diagnostic, Relay, Vibration, LED test facilities and Infrastructure protection.
........................................................................................................................................... 129
Administrative Matters............................................................................................131
Governance............................................................................................................................................. 132
CPRI celebrates Golden Jubilee................................................................................................................. 132
Visit of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy ................................................................................ 133
Activities Related to Women Employees .................................................................................................... 134
Liaison Officer SC/ST & Persons WithDisability (PWD)................................................................................ 135
Deputation of CPRI officers abroad........................................................................................................... 137
Membership of CPRI Officers in International/National Committees............................................................. 137
Research Publication by Officers ............................................................................................................... 137
Finance and Accounts..............................................................................................139

Activities in official language - Hindi ......................................................................143
Awards ................................................................................................................................................... 144
NTPC Award ......................................................................................................................... 144
Inspection by the Second Sub-Committee of Parliament on Official Language.............................................. 145
Workshops and Seminars ......................................................................................................................... 146
Health seminar ..................................................................................................................... 146
Expression development workshop......................................................................................... 147
Publications............................................................................................................................................. 147
Vigyan Deepti ....................................................................................................................... 147
CPRI news............................................................................................................................ 147
Promotional Activities............................................................................................................................... 147
Technical articles competition ................................................................................................ 147
Incentive scheme.................................................................................................................. 147
Facilities Provided .................................................................................................................................... 147
Multilingual software in server ............................................................................................... 147
Supply of forms .................................................................................................................... 147
CPRI website ........................................................................................................................ 148
Compliance ............................................................................................................................................. 148
Hindi Month and Hindi Divas..................................................................................................................... 148
Town’s Official Language Implementation Committee (TOLIC) activities...................................................... 148
Rajbhasha Shield for the year 2009-10................................................................................... 148
Kaveri .................................................................................................................................. 148
Inter organizational competitions ........................................................................................... 148
Joint Hindi Divas celebration.................................................................................................. 148
Regional Rajbhasha Award-First............................................................................................. 149
Appendix – 1............................................................................................................150
The Standing Committee as on 31st
March, 2011 ....................................................................................... 150
Appendix – 2............................................................................................................151
The Committee on Research as on 31st
March, 2011.................................................................................. 151
Appendix – 3............................................................................................................153
The Committee on Testing and Certification as on 31st
March, 2011............................................................ 153
Appendix – 4............................................................................................................155
The RSoP Expert Committee as on 31st
March, 2011................................................................................ 155
Appendix – 5............................................................................................................157
Personnel Deputed Abroad for Meeting/Training/Pre-despatch Inspection of Equipment during2010-2011 .... 157
Appendix– 6.............................................................................................................159
Membership of CPRI Officers on International/National Committees............................................................ 159
Appendix – 7............................................................................................................169
PapersPresented/Published Indicating Venue/Journal................................................................................. 169
Appendix – 8............................................................................................................181
Auditors’ Report....................................................................................................................................... 181
Balance Sheet as on 31st March 2011 .................................................................................... 183
Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended 31st March 2011..................................... 184
Schedules forming part of Balance Sheet as on 31st March 2011 ............................................. 185
Schedules forming part of Income & Expenditure for the year ended 31st
March 2011............... 196
Schedules forming part of Income & Expenditure for the year ended 31st March 2011.............. 197
Schedule 17.......................................................................................................................... 202
Schedule 18.......................................................................................................................... 204

Members of CPRI Governing
Council as on 31st
March, 2011
Shri. P. Uma Shankar-
President, Governing
Council,
Secretary (Power),
Ministry of Power,
Shram Shakti Bhavan,
NEW DELHI-110 001.
Shri. Gurudayal Singh
Vice President,
Governing Council,
Chairperson,
Central Electricity
Authority,
Sewa Bhavan, NEW
DELHI-110 066.
Shri. A.S. Bakshi
Member (Planning),
Central Electricity
Authority,
Sewa Bhawan, NEW
DELHI-110 066.
Dr. Ravi Kanth
Joint Secretary,
Ministry of Power,
Rafi Marg,
NEW DELHI-110 001.
Shri. Rakesh Jain
Joint Secretary & FA,
Ministry of Power,
Rafi Marg,
NEW DELHI-110 001.
Shri. R.R. Abhyankar
Head TPDU,
Ministry of Science &
Technology,
Technology Bhavan,
New Mehrauli Road,
NEW DELHI-110 016.
Shri. Ajit K. Gupta
Advisor & Head (Power
Group),
(MNRE), Lodhi Road,
NEW DELHI-110 003.

Shri. B.P. Rao
Chairman & Managing
Director/Director
IS & P, BHEL Ltd.
BHEL House, Siri Fort,
NEW DELHI-110 049.
Shri. N N Mishra
Director (Operations),
NTPC Ltd., NTPC
Bhawan,
SCOPE Complex,
NEW DELHI-110 003.
Shri. I.S. Jha
Director (Projects),
Power Grid Corporation
of India Ltd.,
Saudamini, Gurgaon,
HARYANA-122001.
Shri. Vimal Mahendru
President-IEEMA,
501, Kakad Chambers,
132, Dr. A. Besant
Road, Worli,
MUMBAI-400 018.
Shri. V.K. Kanjilia
Secretary,
Central Board of
Irrigation & Power,
Chanakyapuri,
NEW DELHI-110 021.
Shri. C.P. Singh
Chairman,
Tamil Nadu Electricity
Board,
Anna Salai,
CHENNAI-600 002.
Shri. V.P. Joy
Chairman,
KSEB,
Vidyuthi Bhavanam,
Pattom,
THIRUVANANTHPURAM
-695 004.
Prof. Lawrence Jenkins
Department of
Electrical Engineering,
IISc,
BANGALORE-560 012.
Prof. A.K. Chaturvedi
Head of Department,
Department of Electrical
Engineering,
Indian Institute of
Technology,
KANPUR.
Prof. J.K. Chatterjee
Department of
Electrical Engineering,
Indian Institute of
Technology,
NEW DELHI-110 016.
Dr. Ajay Mathur
Director General,
Bureau of Energy
Efficiency,
4th floor, Sewa Bhavan,
Ramkrishna Puram,
NEW DELHI-110 066.
Shri. N. Murugesan
Director General,
Member Secretary,
Central Power
Research Institute,
BANGALORE-560 080.

Organisation
This section provides information on:
The objectives of CPRI.
The management.
The organisation.
The different units and their activities.
1

Introduction
The Central Power Research Institute (CPRI) was established by the Government
of India in 1960, with its headquartersin Bangalore. The Institute was re-organised
into an autonomous society in the year 1978 under the aegis of the Ministry of
Power, Government of India. The main objectives of setting up the institute was
for it to serve as a national level laboratory for undertaking applied research in
electrical power engineering, besides functioning as an independent national
testing and certification authority for electrical equipment and components to
ensure reliability in the power system and to innovate and develop new products.
Objectives of CPRI
Function as a national level power research organisation for undertaking
and/or sponsoring research and development projects in the fields of
generation, transmission, distribution and operation of electricity supply
systems.
Provide the necessary centralised research and testing facilities for evaluation
of materials and the performance of power equipment.
Serve as a testing and certification authority at the national level, for the
purpose of certification of rating and performance to ensure availability of
quality equipment for use under conditions prevalent in Indian power systems.
Co-ordinate R&D activities in the various state electricity boards and utilities
and maintain liaison with other institutions engaged in research connected with
power systems and/or power equipment. Act as an apex body for initiating and
coordinating the research & development in the field of electric power, the
research scheme on power.
Evolve criteria for the standards of operation under Indian conditions of various
equipments, and effectively participate in the formulation of national
standards.
Identify problems in the areas of basic and applied research and arrange such
studies in-house and in academic institutions.
Collect information and maintain documentation in the field of power
engineering and publish papers, periodicals or reports in furtherance of the
objectives of the institute.
Establish, maintain and manage laboratories, workshops and other facilities for
furthering scientific and technological research and conduct experiments for
exploiting the invention or discoveries to the cause of power development in
the country.
Enter into an agreement with any enterprise or institution or person or persons
and provide funds to them to carry out the research and development
programme of the institute.
Carry out consultancy projects/ field studies and third party inspection of
equipment and all other related activities relevant to the power utilities in India
and abroad.

Management
The management of the institute vests in its governing council comprising
members representing different ministries of the Government of India, Central
Electricity Authority, State Electricity Boards, Power Supply utilities, Indian
Electrical & Electronics Manufacturer's Association, and academic and R&D
organizations of national importance in electrical power engineering. The
Secretary, Ministry of Power and Chairman, Central Electricity Authority are the
President and Vice-President of the Governing Council respectively. The Director
General of the institute is the Member-Secretary of the governing council.
A standing committee under the Chairmanship of Member (Power Systems),
Central Electricity Authority, with the Joint Secretary (T&R) and Joint Secretary
(Financial Advisor), from the Ministry of Power as members and the Director
General as member convener, takes decisions on behalf of the governing council
from time to time on administrative and financial matters. The composition of this
committee is at Appendix - 1.
The committee on research and committee on testing & certification are the two
committees constituted by the governing council to oversee and guide the
respective activities of the institute. The member (Planning) and the member
(Power Systems) of the CEA are the chairmen of these two Committees
respectively. The composition of these committees is at Appendix - 2 & 3.
CPRI coordinates and monitors the Research projects viz. Research Scheme on
Power which are undertaken by academia, power utilities and industries. An expert
committee chaired by Director General, CPRI evaluates the proposals received and
recommends for approval of the Governing Council. The composition of this
committee is at Appendix – 4.
The governing council meets at least twice a year to deliberate and guide the
working of organization on policy matters. The meetings of other committees are
held as and when required.
About the organisation
As a premier research organization in the field of power engineering, the institute
has several research laboratories and testing installations engaged in different,
specialised fields. The head office and its largest unit - Central Research and
Testing Laboratory (CRTL) - are located at Bangalore. The other units are the
Switchgear Testing & Development Station at Bhopal, Regional Testing Laboratory
at Noida, UHV Research Laboratory at Hyderabad, Thermal Research Centre at
Nagpur, Regional Testing Laboratory, Kolkata and Regional Testing Laboratory at
Guwahati. The details of the organizational set-up of the institute are indicated in
the organization chart.
The unit comprises various laboratories to cater to the different fields of specialised
activities.

DirectorGeneral
N.Murugesan
CentralPowerResearchInstitute
OrganisationChartason31stMarch2011

Table of officers for CPRI divisions
AD RRB Dr. R. Ramesh Babu
AD SSR Dr. S. Seetharamu
AD AS Mr. A. Sudhindra
AD PVB Dr. P.V. Balasubramanyam
AD RSA Dr. R.S.Shivakumar Aradhya
AD MMB Mr. M.M. Babu Narayanan
AD MSB Mr. M.S.Bhat
AD KBM Mr. K.B.Manjunath
AD VA Mr. V. Arunachalam
AD GSG Mr. Gautam Sengupta
AD BHN Mr. B.H.Narayana
AD BG Mr. B.Gunasekaran
AD BVR Mr. B.V.Raghavaiah
AD VKR Mr. V.K.Ramu
JD SVK Mrs. S. Vijaya Kumari
JD SBS Mr. Suhas. S. Bagalkotker
JD RSK Mr. R. S. Kamalakar
JD JS Dr. J. Sundararajan
JD BNR Mr. B. Nageshwar Rao
JD BMM Mr. B.M.Mehra
CACO IVR Mr. I. Venkateshwara Rao
CADO NRP Mr. N.R.Padmanabha

The Central Research and Testing Laboratory,
Bangalore
Centre for Collaborative and Advanced Research.
Diagnostic, Cables, Capacitors Division.
Dielectric Materials Division.
Distribution Systems Division.
Electrical Appliances Technology Division.
Earthquake Engineering and Vibration Research Centre.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Division.
High Voltage Division.
High Power Laboratory.
Instrumentation Division.
Materials Technology Division.
Mechanical Engineering Division.
Power Systems Division.
Short Circuit Laboratory.
Training and HRD.
Utility Automation Research Centre.
SwitchgearTesting and Development Station, Bhopal
Direct Short Circuit Testing Laboratory (1500 MVA).
On-line Testing Station (100 MVA).
High Voltage Laboratory.
Temperature Rise Testing Laboratory.
Energy Meter Testing Laboratory.
Ingress Protection Testing Laboratory.
Supplementary Test Laboratory.
Transformer Oil Laboratory.
Regional Testing Laboratory, Noida
Cables and Capacitors Laboratory.
High Voltage Laboratory.
Insulation Laboratory.
Liquid Dielectrics Laboratory.
Energy Meters Testing Laboratory.
Thermal Research Centre, Nagpur
Coal Analysis Laboratory.
Metallurgy Laboratory.
Water Chemistry Laboratory.

Non-destructive Testing Laboratory.
Condition Monitoring Laboratory.
Environmental Monitoring Laboratory.
Mobile environmental monitoring station.
UHV Research Laboratory, Hyderabad
Pollution Laboratory.
Impulse Laboratory.
Power Frequency Laboratory.
Vibration Laboratory.
Regional Testing Laboratory, Kolkata
Transformer Oil Testing Laboratory.
Regional Testing Laboratory, Guwahati
Transformer Oil Testing Laboratory.
Units and their activities
Central Research and Testing Laboratory (CRTL),
Bangalore
Centre for Collaborative and Advanced Research
(CCAR)
This division was established in 2006 with a view to promote advanced research,
which will benefit the power sector with advanced technologies.
The main objectives of the centre are to:
Provide infrastructure for professionals to carry out research in power
development.
Create a conducive environment for collaborative research between R&D
institutions, industry and academia.
Execute projects based on multi - disciplinary expertise from different
institutions.
Disseminate expertise through a continuing education initiative and an
advanced degree programme.
Increase interaction globally among research organizations and groups.

Diagnostics, Cables and Capacitors Division
This division has facilities for carrying out R&D work and also for testing and
evaluation of all types of capacitors, cables, cable accessories, motor and
transformer insulation, and for partial discharge measurement of HV equipment as
per the relevant national and international standards. Expertise is also available for
diagnostic, RLA and LE (life extension) studies on electrical equipment and for
detailed investigations of specific research and developmental problems in these
areas.
The division has the following laboratories:
Cables laboratory.
Power capacitors laboratory.
Diagnostics laboratory.
Flame retardant low smoke testing laboratory.
Heat run laboratory.
Insulation laboratory.
Dielectric Materials Division
This division has comprehensive testing and evaluation facilities on insulating
materials and systems. The insulating materials are evaluated and tested for
electrical, mechanical, physical and electro-chemical thermal properties. This
division undertakes consultancy work and sponsored projects for different power
utilities and industries. This division is involved in R&D of polymeric insulators for
electric equipment. The division has developed several polymeric materials,
namely epoxy novolok resin for insulators and electrical grade laminates, and FRLS
cables for critical safety applications. The division also developed dielectric fluids
based on rapeseed oil. The polymer laboratory has well-experienced, technical
personnel to advise the polymer industries on setting up plants, process
improvement, etc. This division has transferred the technology of transformer oil
reclamation to state electricity boards, manufacturers and entrepreneurs. The
liquid dielectric lab has developed new techniques for dissolved gas analysis.
This division has the following laboratories:
Liquid dielectrics laboratory.
Polymer laboratory.
Lubricating oil laboratory.
Distribution Systems Division (DSD)
With state-of-the-art facilities and software tools, the Distribution System Division
of CPRI has been rendering consultancy services in finding solutions to various
problems faced by the electricity utilities and industries in the area of power
distribution.
The division has been rendering consultancy to the Electricity Regulatory
Commission in estimation of losses in distribution to enable them to finalize a tariff
structure. Besides, CPRI has been functioning as advisor cum consultant in the
states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala under the Accelerated Power
Development & Reforms Programme (APDRP) of the Government of India during

the past six years. The activities of the RGGVY and R-APDRP related works at CPRI
are being coordinated by the Distribution System Division. Consultancy
assignments, related SCADA and distribution reforms are taken up by this division.
Electrical Appliances Technology Division
The important activities of this division include performance testing and
certification on low-voltage equipment like switches, bulbs and heaters.
The laboratories operating under this division are:
Domestic electrical appliances laboratory.
Ingress protection laboratory.
Battery testing laboratory.
Illumination laboratory.
Fan testing laboratory.
Flame - proof testing laboratory.
Rotating machine testing laboratory.
Refrigerator and air conditioner testing laboratory (established under the
standards and labelling programme of Bureau of Energy Efficiency).
Earthquake Engineering and Vibration Research
Centre
This division is equipped with facilities for providing testing, research and
consultancy services in the area of seismic and vibration qualification of
instruments/equipment for nuclear power plants and other generating stations as
per national and international standards. In addition, this centre offers consultancy
in checking the design adequacy of structures/bridges and models for seismic
qualification.
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Division
This division studies and investigates problems pertaining to the energy audit,
energy conservation and field engineering services of power plants. This is a virtual
division created with experts drawn from various disciplines within CPRI. This
division also provides interdisciplinary field study packages to thermal power
stations and process industries on remaining life estimation, renovation,
modernisation, and up gradation and life extension of components, sub-systems
and plants. This division has been accredited by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)
and PCRA for conducting energy audit in power plants and other industries.
The laboratory has facilities for testing and certification of:
Solar photovoltaic lantern.
Compact florescent lamps and LEDs.
Solar home lighting and street controllers.

High Voltage Division
This division has facilities for testing and certification of high voltage electrical
equipment and for performance, evaluation and investigation of R&D problems in
the area of HV & EHV transmission of electric power.
The following laboratories operate under this division:
High voltage laboratory.
Pollution laboratory.
Impulse current laboratory.
High Power Laboratory
This laboratory provides facilities for development, testing and certification of EHV
circuit breakers, power transformers, current transformers, isolators, line (wave)
traps, reactors, insulator strings, etc., for performance evaluation under short
circuit and other switching conditions.
The facilities available under this laboratory are as follows:
Direct testing facility up to 2500 MVA, 72.5 kV, 3 phase and 1400 MVA, 245
kV, single phase.
Synthetic testing facility for extra high voltage circuit breakers rated up to 400
kV, 63 kA.
Instrumentation Division
This division has facilities for research and development of electronic
instrumentation for power systems.
The following laboratories operate under this division:
Laser and fibre optics laboratory.
Microprocessor based instrumentation laboratory.
Calibration laboratory.
Energy meter testing laboratory.
The division has established a mobile laboratory for calibration of energy meters at
site and for helping Central Electricity Regulators Commission, Delhi Electricity
Regulatory Commission, etc.
Materials Technology Division
This division has different laboratories for testing and development of organic and
inorganic materials, and evaluation of coal, water, etc.
Materials characterization and engineering laboratory.
Corrosion laboratory.

Analytical facilities.
Power station technology and field engineering application laboratory.
Wear & erosion and mechanical test facilities.
Fuel analysis and combustion research laboratory.
Remaining life assessment and renovation & modernization laboratory.
Industrial solid waste utilization centre.
Mechanical Engineering Division
This division is engaged in the study of mechanical engineering problems in the
transmission systems so as to achieve economy and reliability and also to offer
solutions to the problems experienced by the electrical utilities. Design and
consultancy services for evolving optimized tower design are also undertaken by
the Design Cell. In addition, this division has laboratories to conduct R&D work and
also to provide testing facilities to the manufacturers of transmission towers, line
components and accessories, vibration dampers, spacer/spacer dampers, energy
meters, etc.
Prototype tower testing station.
Model tower testing laboratory.
Structural materials testing laboratory.
Tower foundation testing centre.
Vibration laboratory.
Wake simulation laboratory.
Power Systems Division
This division is involved in the study of various problems encountered by
manufacturers and utilities in the design, installation and operation of electric
power systems, using both the mathematical and physical models.
The division has the following facilities:
Power System Simulation centre with High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC)
simulator and Transient Network Analyser (TNA).
Real Time Digital Simulator (RTDS).
Relay testing laboratory.
Short Circuit Laboratory
This laboratory has facilities to undertake testing, certification and development of
LT switchgear fuse gear and power system apparatus. Applied research is also
undertaken to lend a helping hand in the development of indigenous products.

Training and HRD
The training and HRD division is headed by the Joint Director who identifies the
training needs of CPRI, and the staff are regulary deputed for undergoing specific
training programmes organized in-house as well as outside agencies.
The division also co-ordinates the training needs of personal working in state
power sector utilities.
The experts from CPRI imparts both theotrical and practical training for personal of
utilities during the training programme organized by the division.
Utility Automation Research Center
This division is the backbone of all information technology activities at CPRI, which
cater to both software and hardware needs of the organisation. The division is built
with state-of-the-art dedicated servers, which run on various platforms like Sun
Solaris, SCO Unix, Linux and Windows. The division also maintains NAS storage
devices and takes care of the LAN built with a fiber optic backbone and the
Internet services. This division has also established a state-of-the-art
communication protocol laboratory, which is unique in this part of the world, with
the facility to test the energy meter and substantial communication equipment as
per the IEC / MODBUS / DNP protocol standards. The laboratory also offers
consultancy on automation related to substations, distribution automation, SCADA
etc. to all major utilities in the country.
Switchgear Testing and Development Station, Bhopal
The laboratory provides facilities for testing and certification of EHV circuit
breakers, power transformers, isolators, line (wave) traps, reactors, insulator
strings etc., for performance evaluation under short circuit and other abnormal
conditions. A 100 MVA on-line testing station is a special facility, which enables
testing and certification of LT and HV switchgear, in addition to the 1500 MVA
short circuit alternator and energy meter testing laboratory. Transformer oil testing
laboratory to conduct in-service oil testing.
Regional Testing Laboratory, Noida
The important facilities under this unit are cables testing up to 33 kV, a high
voltage laboratory for testing insulators and transformers and a transformer oil
testing laboratory. New facilities for testing of energy meters and diagnostic
testing facilities of power equipment have been created at the new centre.
Thermal Research Centre, Nagpur
This centre situated near Koradi Thermal Power Station, Koradi is mainly intended
for taking up R&D work pertaining to thermal power stations. The centre is also
equipped to take up consultancy work in the area of environmental impact
assessment, and investigations on fuel treatment, ignition studies, coal
characteristics, pilot scale studies for coal gassification, slurry fuels, life estimation
of thermal power plant components, renovation & modernisation of thermal power
plants, etc. The thermal research centre mainly undertakes Remaining Life
Assessment and Renovation & Modernization of thermal power stations and has
provided consultancy services to more than twenty thermal power stations.

Ultra High Voltage Research Laboratory (UHVRL),
Hyderabad
This laboratory has the necessary infrastructure to simulate actual operating
voltage conditions on an experimental line in the range of 220 kV to 1200 kV, to
evaluate the suitability and adaptability of UHV systems to Indian power systems
taking into account the climatic, environmental, ecological and biological conditions
prevailing in our country. The facility can evaluate corona loss, audible noise, radio
and television interference, electric field etc., under various voltage and climatic
conditions. Besides, the laboratory has the capacity to cater to electrical
manufacturers for their investigatory and commercial tests of equipment rated up
to 1200 kV class. This is a unique facility in this part of the world.
Regional Testing Laboratory, Kolkata
This was set up with a view to cater to the testing, certification and evaluation
needs of the electrical power equipment manufacturing industries, utilities and
consumers in the eastern region. The laboratory is equipped with facilities to carry
out testing of insulating oils in power transformers as per IS 1866-2000. The
dissolved gas analysis of transformer oil in the power transformers, an important
diagnostic tool, is available at RTL, Kolkata for assessing the internal condition of
the transformers. The laboratory has the test facilities like High Performance Liquid
Chromatography (HPLC) to evaluate Furfural content (Furan Content), which is an
important diagnostic tool for assessing the condition of solid insulation in power
transformers. The facility is also being used for assessing the inhibitor level in the
transformer oil.
Regional Testing Laboratory, Guwahati
This laboratory has a transformer oil testing facility as per IS 1866-2000 and
dissolved gas analysis of transformer oil in power transformers is also available at
Regional Testing Laboratory, Guwahati for internal assessment of condition of
transformers for the benefit of power utilities of the North Eastern region.

Research and Development
The in-house research projects.
The Research Scheme on Power (RSoP) projects.
2

The institute takes up research and development programmes keeping abreast
with the latest technological developments in the areas of generation, transmission
and distribution of power. CPRI brings together its scientists and engineers as well
as experts from academia and industry to help address challenges in power /
electricity, including reliability, efficiency, safety and environment.
CPRI also provides technology to drive research and development, undertakes
research in emerging technologies. CPRI scientists and engineers represent in
formulating national and international standards.
The research and development projects undertaken are of two types:
In-house research projects.
Research scheme on power.
In-house research projects
These projects are undertaken to develop the technology and expertise to serve
the power sector. These projects are planned keeping in mind the needs of power
industry as well as the utilities. The projects proposed by scientists and engineers
are approved by committee on research chaired by Member Planning, Central
Electricity Authority.
During this year (2010-2011) twenty projects were under investigation and five
projects were completed.
Ongoing In-house research projects
Assessment and mapping of corrosion in boiler tube
components
Objective:
To design and develop a crawling system with specific contour attachments and to
identify the critical factors affecting the service life of the boiler water wall tubes.
Progress:
The development of reference tubes for the calibration of equipment has been
completed. The generation of phase valve readings with respect to the waveform
signal response for the calculation of tube water thickness is being undertaken.

Design & development & fabrication of co-axial shunt
for measurement of short circuit currents up to 200
kA r.m.s of one second
Objective:
To develop a co - axial shunt for the measurement of short circuit currents up to
200 kA rms for 1 second.
Progress:
The design and development of a co - axial shunt for measurement of short circuit
currents up to 200 kA rms for 1 second were undertaken to meet the needs of
testing at STDS, Bhopal. The design and development of co-axial shunts for short
circuit currents up to 200 kA (rms) for one second were taken up. A few world
leaders like M/s CESI, Italy and M/s Hafely Test AG, Switzerland have such design
and manufacturing capability. For indigenous development of a shunt, this project
was initiated; the preliminary investigations on design have been completed and
the fabrication of the shunt is in progress.
Seismic qualification of transformers
Objective:
To create awareness among engineers about the risk involved in qualifying the
substation equipment for seismic loads.
Progress:
The modeling of a cylindrical post insulator of 420 kV using the finite element
method has been completed. A bushing current transformer and potential
transformer were tested using a tri - axial shaker for seismic qualification. The
transformer bushing was modeled and analysis of the porcelain insulator and
bushing was taken up.
Development of tracking wheel test facility &
evaluation of polymeric insulators
Objective:
To develop tracking wheel test facility to evaluate the polymeric insulators.
Progress:
The design of IEC 62217 "Tracking Wheel Test" equipment has been completed.
Preliminary tests on the tracking and erosion of silicone rubber with and without
UV radiation have been completed.

Study of GPS synchronized end-to-end testing of
distance protection scheme and evolving field test
methodology
Objective:
To verify the complete functionality of the communication aided scheme.
Progress:
The performance of a PC controlled protective relay test system with a GPS
receiver / antenna was studied. The installation and commissioning of the relay
test system was completed. A five-day training program was arranged on “PC
controlled protective relay test system", for imparting training to personnel
involved. The end-to-end testing of distance protection relays at Hoody-
Nelamangala 400 kV substation and Hoody-HAL 220 kV substation was completed.
White LED – technology assessment
Objective:
To take up the technology assessment of the LED lighting scheme.
Progress:
The literature survey on the LED technology has been completed and a few, locally
available LED lamp fixtures have been evaluated. The LED modules for auto
corridor/street light controllers have been developed. Representative LED
lamp/fixture assemblies have been evaluated for illumination and luminaries/lux
requirements. A layout for installation of different types of LED has been made.
Polymer composite sections for compact transmission
line towers
Objective:
To develop next generation, high voltage transmission line tower/cross arm with
composite materials and evaluate its techno - economic advantages.
Progress:
The preliminary design and evaluation of the cross arm have been completed for
different voltages and wind speeds. The design software has been installed and the
preliminary work on design has been completed. The mechanical and electrical
parameters of the polyester resin -glass reinforced material for the cross arm were
evaluated. Based on a typical 220 kV tower, the cross arm was designed and
fabricated using epoxy and glass fiber material and mechanical performance tests
were carried out.

Study of smart grids and impact of renewable
integration.
Objective:
To establish a pilot smart grid at CPRI by installing smart meters, sensors, etc.; to
create a real time, digital gateway for monitoring electricity usage and to
participate in the energy efficiency programme.
Progress:
Simulation studies on the impact of renewable integration on 11 kV distribution
feeders are under progress. Laboratories have been identified for the
implementation of this project. Discussions on “Identifying features of the present
day smart meters extensive literature survey” with Indian and international
manufacturers has been completed and necessary equipment required for the
project are being procured. Two technical papers on Smart Grid were presented at
national conferences.
Development of miniature specimen test techniques
and advanced NDE approach for damage assessment
of in-service high temperature power plant
components
Objective:
To evolve the methodology for extraction of a miniature specimen from the thick
sections of a plant component and development of a small punch test device for
the evaluation of mechanical and creep properties using the small punch test.
Progress:
The development of the small punch test method has been completed. Specimens
from new and in-service boilers and turbine components like 1- Cr- ½ Mo steel and
¼ -Cr 1- Mo steel (Cr: Chromium, Mo: Molybdenum) have been collected and are
under evaluation and standardization. The creep test equipment was upgraded and
it is being used for material evaluation. The evaluation of material properties using
the positron annihilation method is in progress. The design of miniature specimen
extraction device is in progress.
Design and testing of HV electrode for EHV/UHV
system equipment
Objective:
To design high voltage electrodes and corona rings and to analyze electric fields;
to complement the design through optimization and validation of the substation
bus post insulator and transmission line insulator string configurations.

Progress:
The software tools have been identified and are being procured along with the 3D
electric field software and workstation.
Collection of data on the “line hardware and equipment/electrode systems for the
765 kV transmission systems” is in progress.
Design, development and validation of test suites for
IEC 62056 (DLMS/COSEM) compliant energy meters
Objective:
To custom design, develop and install an energy meter supporting the IEC 62056
protocol with communication interface and to study the performance system.
Progress:
The protocol stack for the server stack and client stack has been identified and
hardware procurement is in progress.
Development of high performance polymeric
components based on PEEK & PC for power sector
applications
Objective:
To develop polymer composites for insulators, supporting insulators and structural
parts of power equipment, using PEEK, poly carbonates and polyurethanes.
Progress:
A torque rheometer was identified and it is being procured. Samples of PEEK
offered by several vendors were evaluated for chemical and electrical
characteristics and the best material was identified and procured for the fabrication
of laboratory samples. The technological issues concerning development of
electrical components based on PEEK were discussed with experts from the
industry and the background work for taking up the fabrication of samples has

been completed. A sample of the polycarbonate insulator was fabricated and
evaluated for tracking and erosion resistance. A sample wire from PEEK has been
extruded and its evaluation is in progress.
Conversion of transformer heat losses into useful
electrical energy
Objective:
To design and fabricate a heat pipe to tap the heat energy from the transformer
core and to carry out trials on an actual transformer.
Progress:
Extensive literature survey on the subject has been completed and the study of the
theoretical background of a heat pipe is in progress. Design of a heat pipe to tap
energy from the condenser and fabrication of the heat pipe are in progress.
Development of high resolution impulse recorder for
high impulse voltage and current measurements
Objective:
To fabricate a high resolution impulse recording system for high voltage impulse
and current measurements comprising four independent channels with a sampling
rate of 200 M Sa/sec 12 - bit resolution digital recording, with an embedded
controller for data acquisition, storage and processing.
Progress:
The hardware specifications were prepared as per the requirement of IEC and the
required hardware / software was identified. The integration of the data acquisition
system is in progress. Analyzing tools like the fast fourier transform, difference
function and transfer function have been incorporated into the system design and
features like user friendliness, graphical user interface for operation and test report
generation have been added.
Technology for design and development –
engineering of HTS power apparatus HTS transformer
and superconducting fault current limiter
Objective:
To design, develop and evaluate a HTS fault current limiter prototype 11kV /
100kVA HTS transformer.
Progress:
A literature survey of available technologies on high temperature superconducting
transformers and fault current limiters was carried out and a status report is under
preparation. A comparative evaluation of software available for the design of HTS
power apparatus was undertaken and suggestions were made to the vendors to
include material characteristics of available superconducting tapes like 1G and 2G
tapes. Networking of specialists in superconductivity, cryogenics, HTS power

apparatus and related areas has been undertaken. A roadmap for development of
superconducting fault current limiter has been finalized by the core group of the
project.
Completed In-house research projects
Polymer-ceramic composites with high dielectric
constant for electrical applications
Objective:
To process polymer – ceramic composites with high dielectric constant.
Progress:
High dielectric constant calcium copper titanate CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) has been
developed by microwave processing. The developed ceramic material has been
systematically characterized for its structure and morphology using X-ray powder
diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy
and dielectric measurements. Polymer composites with CCTO were prepared and
properties studied for capacitor applications.
Study on integration issues of a multi-in feed HVDC
system into one AC system
Objective:
To study the parametric sensitivity on commutation failure for a multi-in feed
HVDC system and to arrive at an appropriate CF immunity index.
Progress:
HVDC links, NER-Agra and Balia-Bhiwadi, were chosen for the study of integration
issues that are present in a multi-in feed HVDC system. The Commutation Failure
Immunity Index (CFII), Multi Infeed Interaction Factor (MIIF) and Multi Infeed
Effective Short Circuit Ratio (MIESCR) were studied to estimate the interaction of
the inverters in a multi-in feed HVDC system. The CFII values for three inverters at
Agra, Bhiwadi and Dadri were computed and it was found that among the three
inverters, the Bhiwadi inverter is sensitive to commutation failure. From the MIIF
value, it is found that the interaction between Agra and Bhiwadi inverters is more.
Development of high strength composite core
material for overhead transmission line conductor
applications
Objective:
To develop methodologies for the synthesis of temperature resistant aluminum and
carbon fiber reinforced aluminum composite material for overhead transmission
application.

Progress:
The methodology of pultrusion of thin wires has been established. A carbon fiber
reinforced, high temperature cynate ester resin based composite core with 3 mm
diameter was pultruded and used for fabricating a composite core conductor. The
tensile strength of the composite wire is on par with that of a steel core wire.
Evaluation of gassing characteristics, sulphur levels
and electro-static charging tendencies of transformer
oils
Objective:
To correlate gassing characteristics with sulphur and aromatic content in oil.
Progress:
A gassing tendency experimental apparatus was designed and fabricated. A
number of transformer oil samples were evaluated for gassing tendency. The effect
of composition of liquid dielectrics on gassing tendency was evaluated.
Power Line Communication (PLC) for power sector
applications (both LV & MV)
Objective:
To evaluate the performance of the existing LV broadband over broadband power
line (BPL) modems to set up a BPL based local area network (LAN) in the CPRI
colony.
Progress:
The system level design and specification for PLC communication components for
broadband were made. The establishment of LAN using PLC for identified houses /
points in the CPRI colony / campus was taken up. The development of a few
applications like meter reading and streetlight control using PLC was
demonstrated.

Research Scheme on Power (RSoP)
projects
These project proposals are invited from academia, power utilities, industries as
well as research institutes. The proposals are approved by an expert committee on
research scheme on power chaired by the Director General, CPRI.
During this year (2010-2011), twenty projects were under investigation and seven
projects were completed.
Ongoing RSoP projects
Life enhancement of the underwater parts of the
hydro power station
Implementing agency: SJVNL, Shimla.
Objective:
To carry out studies to enhance the life of the underwater parts of the hydro power
station, which are affected by silt erosion.
Progress:
The modification of the silt erosion test chamber for circumventing the problem of
overflow of water has been undertaken and a tubular heat exchanger onside the
slurry has been made, along with tower type cooling. The design and fabrication of
a new carbide lined sample holder for the silt erosion test rig was completed. The
silt erosion resistance of the base stainless steel (16/4 grade), clad, high velocity
oxygen fuel coated samples were carried out at 30, 45, 60 and 75 degree impact
angles, at 30 m/s, using a modified test setup. Three varieties of coating samples
(WC_Co-Cr3C2/NiCr and Ni Cr B Si) were prepared and the silt erosion resistance
was evaluated.
Feasibility study on “Midget Transformers” in 11
kV/433 V network – I PHASE
Implementing agency: TNEB, Chennai.
Objective:
To conduct a computer simulation study and evolve the specification for Midget
transformers.
Progress:
The simulation of midget transformers has been completed and the results were
analyzed with reference to design, safety and certain manufacturing aspects of the
Midget transformer.

Performance analysis and trading of wind power
generation in an emerging power system
Implementing agency: IIT, Kanpur.
Objective:
To develop a suitable model of wind generators for simulation and performance
analysis, and also to explore a new slip power recovery scheme with series line
compensation.
Progress:
A mathematical model was developed along with a SIMULINK model in Matrix
Laboratory (MATLAB) to study the performance of the wind power generation
system. A new slip power recovery scheme was analyzed for improving the
dynamic performance. The proposed scheme is being compared with the
conventional DFIG scheme. A new slip power recovery scheme has been developed
and its performance is being investigated.
Development of appropriate algorithms for efficient
management of energy control centers
Implementing agency: DayanandSagar College of Engineering, Bangalore.
Objective:
To provide uninterrupted quality power to customers.To ensure the efficient
operation of substations by enabling fast decisions on disconnection and
reconnection; to conserve energy through demand side management and
distribution automation.
Progress:
A mathematical model for load flow analysis was developed and an algorithm
based on the mathematical model has been worked out.
Stabilization of AC/DC network with a Unified Power
Flow Controller (UPFC)
Implementing agency: Banaras Hindu University-IT, Varanasi.
Objective:
To study and develop load models for different power components in distribution
systems and to study the impact of load models on power quality.
Progress:
A real life mathematical model of UPFC looking into the discrete time operation
along with all associated controls and firing circuits were conducted.

Optimal placement of sectionalizing switches and
distributed generation resources for improving the
service reliability in the power distribution system
Implementing agency: IIT, Roorkee.
Objective:
Development of an optimal placement strategy for sectionalizing switches and
distributed generation (DG) resources, for improving the service reliability in a high
voltage, balanced radial power distribution system.
Progress:
The framework for the standard distribution system load flow, incorporating
distributed generation using a backward/forward technique, was completed. The
development of an interval load flow distribution system with DG continued. Work
on sensitivity analysis has been initiated. The work is in progress.
Condition monitoring of generators in power stations
using the on-line partial discharge measurements and
off-line Tan Delta measurements
Objective:
To formulate methods of test and fault diagnosis of the power station generators
use.
a) On – line PD measurements.
b) Condition assessment of the stator winding insulation using the capacitance and
Tan Delta measurements.
Progress:
The specification for procurement of the devices has been prepared. Product
catalogues of various manufacturers for on-line PD monitoring devices and Tan
Delta measurements for generators were obtained and studied.
Analysis of sub synchronous resonance and design of
controllers for Ramagundam – Kadapa TCSC
Implementing agency: Vel Tech College, Chennai.
Objective:
To develop and validate accurate modeling of Thyristor Controlled Series
Compensation (TCSC) for Sub – Synchronous Resonance (SSR) studies, to carry
out damping torque, Eigen value analysis and detailed transient simulation for
various operating conditions.

Progress:
Mi-power software has been procured and analytical studies have been conducted.
From this analysis, it is inferred that a TCSC device can be preferably located near
the load centre (Kadapa) for conducting Sub – Synchronous Resonance (SSR)
observation.
Evaluation of efficacy and long term performance of
locally available clay of Kerala as an encasement in
earthing systems in high soil resistivity areas
Implementing agency: KSEB.
Objective:
To study the chemical characteristics, anticorrosive nature and the long term
stability of different samples of clay, locally available in Kerala, in order to
determine its suitability for use as an encasement of earthing electrodes to reduce
earth resistance and to assess the techno economic feasibility of using the
successful samples in earthing systems.
Progress:
Collected samples of clays from different parts of Kerala. A workshop on power
system grounding practice and also training on measurement of PH and
conductivity of clay samples were attended. An in-house lab facility has been set
up in the research station.
Design and development of a FPGA based adaptive
distance relay for flexible ac- transmission systems
Implementing agency: Voice Of America (VOA) University, Bhubaneshwar.
Objective:
To develop FPGA/DGP based relaying hardware and the corresponding relay
software for the shunt controlled, STATCOM based transmission lines.
Progress:
A power system model with the facility to vary the system strength, fault location,
type of fault, load flow and direction of load has been developed to simulate all
possible system conditions.

Wide area measurement and control for improving
observability and stability of power systems
Implementing agency: IIT, Kanpur.
Objective:
To develop a suitable model of wind generators for simulation and performance
analysis and to explore a new slip power recovery scheme with series line
compensation.
Progress:
Suitable mathematical models of the wind generators with the suitable controllers
(conventional and AI based) have been developed to integrate in the power system
studies.
Performance evaluation of a new device for electricity
production
Implementing agency: IIT, New Delhi.
Objective:
To evaluate the performance of a machine named as “Sohrab capsule station
power device” developed for electivity production, by quantifying the mechanical,
electrical and overall efficiency of the device under laboratory conditions.
Progress:
The mechanical, electrical and overall efficiency of the device for electricity
generation have been estimated based on experimental measurements.
Completed RSoP Projects
Performance of reclaimed oil from power and
distribution transformers
Objective:
To study the performance of reclaimed oil from different power and distribution
transformers of TNEB.
Progress:
Reclamation process is undertaken and standardized. The reclaimed oil samples
were evaluated at CPRI. In all, 25,600 liters of reclaimed oil samples were
despatched for replacement in Villupuram circle of TNEB. Investigations such as
Tan, insulation resistance on transformers and tests on oil have been carried out
on both power and distribution transformers of TNEB. A double reclamation
process was tried in Tirunelveli and Thiruvannamalai reclamation plants. It was
agreed in principle to adopt the percolation through gravity process and initial tests

were carried out on 40,000 liters of oil. The electrical tests on transformers and oil
testing was carried out on 33/11 kV transformers at Ural and Marur.
Development of an expert system for coupled fields
(structural and thermal) analysis and design
optimization of high speed steam turbine rotor shrink
fit assemblies
Implementing agency: Bangalore Institute of Technology, Bangalore.
Objective:
To develop an expert system analysis of the coupled fields (structural and thermal)
and to achieve design optimization of the high speed, turbine rotor shrink fit
assemblies.
Progress:
Structural and couple field analyses at extreme temperatures for various ranges of
power and identification of stress ranges at various speeds has been undertaken.
The effect of blades on the stress development on turbine during operation has
been studied. Stresses developed at the root of the blades for various power
ranges have been recorded at various speeds and length of blades. A detailed
modal analysis has been carried out for various power ranges, estimating the
crucial critical speeds and resonant conditions. An analysis of five typical rotors
was carried out and the stresses at the root of blades were estimated. Two
international journal papers were published. ANSYS Parametric Design Language
(APDL) implementation for determining critical speeds of multi sectioned rotors has
been completed.
Study on online condition monitoring of transformer
bushings
Objective:
To monitor the online loss factor of power transformers in service and carry out the
condition monitoring studies on bushings. The project aims at the establishment of
norms for improving the reliability of power transformers.
Progress:
Online tan delta measuring apparatus was installed and data on tan generated for
power transformer (50 MVA)/110 kV transformer and 145 kV bushings. It is
established that online systems are useful and essential for condition monitoring of
EHV transformer bushing. The study highlights the need for low cost support
systems like remote monitoring units for online monitoring of bushing. A
replacement strategy based on hourly trends/alerts has been established. SCDA
and remote access of bushing health through Tan delta monitoring or a leakage
current is verified and proved useful.

Study on furanic compounds in transformer oil
Objective:
To make an in-depth study of Furanic compounds in transformer oil.
Progress:
The literature on furanic compounds in transformer oil has been reviewed and a
status report is under preparation. A research programme implementation plan has
been drawn in consultation with CPRI and it is being executed. Many technical
aspects like the number of transformers to be selected for the study and the
criteria for selection have been finalized and the chemical analysis of oil samples is
in progress. The history of transformers selected and included in the study has
been received from different sub-stations and the data was complied. A total of
170 transformers were evaluated under the programme of work. Dissolved gas
analysis and Furan analysis were completed on the transformers and the results
were analyzed.
Study on cause of failure of S/S batteries and
evolving condition monitoring technique
Objective:
To study the performance of substation and power station batteries used in TNEB.
Progress:
Single cell charge/discharger units were procured and installed at the different
distribution circles of TNEB. Battery testing was carried out in the Trichy and
Madurai circles. A total of 2584 cells were tested and new condition monitoring
parameters were identified. It is concluded that the float voltage and specific
gravity should not be relied upon totally for identifying the state of health (SOH) of
a battery. It is recommended that humidity and temperature have marked
influence on the life of the battery and hence, new batteries will have to be put
into service at the earliest. It is recommended that each distribution circle be
provided single cell charge/discharge equipment. The chargers shall incorporate
both constant current and constant voltage mode of operation.
To determine the effective life of ground mat by using
“ANTIDOTE” technique/ inhibitors, etc.
Implementing agency: PSEB.
Objective:
To study the effective life of ground mats in corrosive and non-corrosive soils by
using antidote technique and inhibitors.

Progress:
It is observed that in non-corrosive soils, the embedded ground mat serves for
about two to three decades, but, in corrosive soils, the effective life of a ground
mat is very much reduced. Hence, to enhance the life of the ground mat and
ground electrode "Antidote", the technique of inhibitors or other effective means
was adopted. An experimental setup to study the effect of corrosion has been
completed at four, 66 kV substations. Samples of soils from these four substations
were analyzed for different parameters including the soil resistivity. Tests were
also carried out on non-corrosive soil in which mild steel was used. Further,
chemical tests are in progress to understand the correlation between soil
resistance and electrodes. The tests were also repeated on corrosive soils.
Condition monitoring of transformer signature UHF
sensors and some novel ideas on using fluorescent
technique for characterizing thermally aged
transformer oil.
Implementing agency: IIT, Chennai.
Objective:
To design and develop a UHF sensor for condition monitoring of high voltage
transformers.
Progress:
The amplitude and frequency content of the UHF signal generated due to partial
discharges were analyzed under AC/DC voltages and increase in the intensity of
corona with increase in applied voltage and reduction in input current ripple.
Some of the important conclusions of the study are:
(1) UHF signals are generated due to partial discharges caused by motion of the
conducting particles in the transformer oil under AC and DC.
(2) The UHF amplitude is higher due to the particle movement under negative DC
as compared to positive DC.
(3) The partial discharges are intermittent under the positive DC as compared to
negative DC.
(4) Acoustic emission measurement is only a confirmatory test for the
identification of partial discharges.
(5) Narrow band measurement of the UHF signal generated due to partial
discharge under particle movement at 1 GHz in presence of a barrier leads to
increase in the PD pulses with increase in voltage.
(6) Particle levitation voltage of macroscopic particles under DC is constant
irrespective of the temperature of the transformer oil.

National Perspective Plan
Research Projects
The development of silt erosion resistant material for turbines of hydro
generators.
The national effort to develop technology for custom power devices
(STATCOM).
The development of High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) distribution
transformers.
The development of a prototype of 132 kV optical current transformer for use
in the 132 kV system.
The development of silt erosion resistant nano-composite coatings.
The tunneling in water charge zones under high hydro static pressure.
The development of DVR based voltage source stabilizers for process
Industryindustry.
The improvement in reliability, safety and long term performance of power and
converter transformers.
The study on stability & reliability of the power system with large penetration
of wind power.
The design and development of high temperature Superconducting Fault
Current Limiter (SFCL).
3

Introduction
Power sector, being highly technology intensive, Research and Development (R
and D) plays a major role in developmental plans, especially when technology up
gradation is considered for strengthening of power sector. New technologies would
need to be adopted and implemented in a proactive manner to achieve the
objective of optimum utilization of the available resources. In the present scenario
there is an emerging need for R and D in different areas of power engineering.
With the background, the Ministry of Power has constituted a standing committee
on R & D (SCRD). The main objective is to formulate the R & D for power sector
under “National Perspective Plan (NPP) for R & D in Indian Power Sector” with a
view to create and upgrade the R & D infrastructure and promote and encourage in
the development of equipment for application and power sector. The standing
committee comprising of the Chairman of standing committee is the chairperson
CEA, the member convener is DG, CPRI and the other members are drawn from
CPSUs of MOP (Ministry of Power) and BHEL (Bharath Heavy Electricals Limited).
Under NPP scheme, projects have been initiated during 10th
plan and new projects
have been undertaken during 11th
plan. 11 projects have been taken up covering
Hydro, transmission, distribution, and renewable energy. Four projects have been
completed so far and seven projects are ongoing. Two patents have been applied.
The organisations involved in carrying out the collaborative R & D projects are:
NML, Jamshedpur, EMCO, Mumbai, CDAC, Trivandrum, BHEL, Hyderabad, ERDA,
Baroda, NHPC, Faridabad, IIT, Rourkee, Crompton Greaves, Mumbai and CPRI. The
funding mechanism is through contribution from project implementing agency and
Ministry of Power. Nodal officers of CPRI are involved actively in accomplishing the
project. CPRI and CEA are the nodal agencies for approval and monitoring of the
projects undertaken by various agencies.
Development of silt erosion resistant
material for turbines of hydro
generators
Project implementing organization: NML, Jamshedpur.
Objective:
To develop material having the following properties in comparison to 13Cr-4Ni
steel.
Stainless (corrosion) steel with property similar to that of 13 Cr-4Ni steel.
Improved abrasion and erosion resistance.
Improved impact toughness values for resistance to impingement erosion by
silts.
Similar damping capacity for frequency tolerance as the 13Cr-4Ni steel.
Good cast-ability and good weldability.
Wear evaluation of candidate materials.

Progress:
It is well known that 13Cr-4Ni steel has a tempered martensitic structure.
Generally, materials having higher hardness have good erosion resistance. So, to
counter materials loss due to silt impingement, there is a requirement of high
hardness material. Apart from materials loss due to silt particle impingement,
there are reports on cavitation-erosion too. Cavitation erosion takes place due to
explosion of air bubbles on the component surface and that may lead to generation
of high tensile stress and materials removal from the underwater components. To
counter cavitation-erosion, the material must have high co-efficient of work-
hardening.
These 3 new alloys were designed to have 2 phase structures or multi-phase
structures because these structures can have high hardness in combination with
good work hardenability. The castings appear to sound without any visible defects.
After castings into rectangular blocks, those were homogenized in a furnace with
normal atmosphere at 1050-11000
C. Time for homogenisation at that temperature
has been decided based on the size of the block. After homogenisation, these were
water cooled. Turnings were taken from the blocks and wet chemical analysis was
carried out to ascertain its actual composition. The evaluation of mechanical and
erosion properties of alloy-7 and alloy-8 were carried out.
Tensile Testing:
Flat specimens were fabricated for tensile tests following the ASTM standard E 8M-
85 from the as heat treated samples. The entire tensile tests were performed with
the help of an Instron (model-8501).
Erosion Testing:
Erosion set-up is made as per ASTM G-32 and Characterization of Heat 2 and Heat
3. The activities concerning (i) Various heat treatment parameters on silt 7 and 8
have been under way to optimize erosive wear property (ii) Slurry erosive wear
studies for benchmarking of 13Cr-4Ni steel has been completed with the set-up of
IIT-Roorkee. Flow Modelling through CFD analysis has been initiated. The
mechanical property of the material was investigated through automated Ball
Independent technique developed at NML.

Patent Ref: 0384/2011
Application for patent is in process with NML.
Title:
An erosion resistant steel for underwater components of turbine hydro generators
and process for producing the same.
National effort to develop technology
for custom power devices (STATCOM)
Development of four 500kvar STATCOMs for
application at: IT – Park, Trivandrum.
Project implementing organization: C- DAC, Trivandrum.
Objective:
To develop four 500kvar STATCOMs.
Progress:
In this project four 500kvar STATCOM’s have been designed, developed and
implemented at IT park, Thiruvananthapuram. Due to single-phase non-linear
loading in IT parks, large amount of currents tend to flow in the neutral, causing
transformer heating and low power factor, malfunctioning of protective relays, poor
utilization of the network and poor voltage regulation etc. The developed STATCOM
has special power circuit configurations and control functions for compensation in
the unbalanced load conditions as well as harmonic compensation.
The project execution has been carried out in two aspects:
Simulation studies
Instantaneous current and voltage control method is selected to compensate the
neutral current and unbalanced current in the site. The control algorithm was
developed and validated by simulating in PSIM software. The control law is
validated with different load combinations.
The priority for compensation also incorporated in this simulation with following
order:
Neutral current compensation.
Unbalance compensation.
Reactive power compensation.
Harmonic compensation.

Hardware development
Design of the 500kvar converter module. Testing of power and control module
of the Lab Proto unit - Inverter mode of operation and STATCOM mode of
operation in lab proto model.
Design and development of power hardware for 4 numbers of 500kvar
STATCOM’s. Fabrication and assembly of 4 numbers of 500kvar STATCOM’s.
Validation of control algorithms and apply to the field trial units and test the
performance with typical unbalance load.
Conducting the field trials with neutral current compensation and reactive
power compensation.

Development of technology for custom power devices
(Static compensator STATCOM) and 2.5 MVAR
STATCOM for Bhilai Steel Plant by BHEL
Project implementing organization: BHEL, Hyderabad.
Objective:
To develop technology for custom power devices (Static Compensator STATCOM):
Development of 2.5 MVAR STATCOM for Bhilai Steel Plant by BHEL.
Progress:
The project execution covers development and deployment of Insulated Gate
Biploar Transistor (IGBT) based ± 2.5 MVAR STATCOM for an electric arc furnace
operating at forging shop of Bhilai Steel Plant. Under this project a 2.5 MVAR IGBT
based STATCOM for compensating voltage flicker, unbalance and harmonics
caused by arc furnace in Bhilai steel plant has been designed, developed and
installed. High power inverter for multi-megawatt capacity and DSP based
Controller for Dynamic VAR compensation has been developed. Power quality
problems associated with arc furnace:
Voltage flicker.
Harmonics distortion.
Unbalanced loading.
Use of STATCOM led to:
Reduced flicker level.
Improved Pf at point of common coupling.
Productivity increase.
Decrease in specific electrode consumption.
Decrease in specific energy consumption.
Load balancing.
Harmonics compensation.

The developed STATCOM has been installed and commissioned opposite to BSP
substation 13. The field trials are in progress.
Development of High Temperature
Superconducting (HTS) distribution
transformers
Project implementing organization: EMCO, Mumbai.
Objective:
To design, develop and implement HTS 630kVA transformer for application in
distribution system.
Progress:
Under this project High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) 630kVA distribution
system transformer has been designed, developed and preliminary tests were
conducted. The development of 630kVA HTS transformer includes optimization and
reliability aspects. Calculations on electromagnetic and heat losses in the
transformer have been completed and results are satisfactory. Experiments were
conducted on the conductor for their current carrying capacity. Sub-cooled liquid
nitrogen is being used as an insulation and cooling purpose. Protection related to
short circuits, increases in temperature of operation, reductions of liquid level etc
were considered, while designing. The development covers: (i) development of
Three HV and three LV formers (ii) Fabrication of HV & LV copper terminations (iii)
Winding of three set of HV coils (iv) Copper shield heat exchanger development
and (v) Testing of 3 prototype cryostat with new resin.
The following tests were conducted:

Routine tests
Measurement of winding resistance phase to phase & phase to neutral, No load
loss and load loss, voltage ratio & polarity check, induced over-voltage withstand
test and separate source voltage withstand tests were conducted.
Testing HTS transformer
Tests were carried out to evaluate no load losses and load losses as per IS-2026,
IEC 6076 at 77 K, bath cooled with liquid nitrogen. The results observed were
satisfactory. The test results of over potential test, separate source test, resistance
test and ratio test etc were carried out. The application of HTS technology in power
sector is a step in the direction of reducing CO2 & CDM (Clean Development
Mechanism) emission.

Patent filed:
The research work carried out is jointly filed patent for ‘A natural convection
cryogenic cooling system for superconductor transformer’. No: 2750/MUM/2009.
Field implementation aspects are in progress.
To develop a prototype of 132 kV
optical current transformer for use in
the 132 kV system
Project implementing organization: ERDA, Vadodara.
Objective:
To develop optical current transformer using optical fiber as a sensor medium. It is
a new attempt to develop an optical transformer using Faraday effect. If an optical
fibre carrying a polarized laser beam is wound over the conductor, then there will
be a change in the polarizing angle due to the presence of the parallel magnetic
field. By measuring the change in the angle, the current passing through the
conductor can be obtained.
Progress:
The results of optical current transformer with half cycle current & half second
current is obtained, thus the principle of the OCT based on Faraday effect is
proved. Half second reading is more reliable. Now, signal conditioning to convert
detector signal into equivalent current signal is in progress. Results of optical CT
and that of conventional CT were compared and agreement between the two was
observed to be very good.

Application of the polarization principle in the field of power system is well known,
and for better understanding the principle in presence of magnetic field number of
experiments has been conducted. The experiments were extended using optical
fibre as a sensor instead of a quartz crystal.
Demonstration of the Faraday principle using quartz rod and laser source is
completed.
Development of silt erosion resistant
nano-composite coatings
Project implementing organization: IIT – Roorkee.
Objective:
To develop a nano-composite PVD coating having high yield strength, hardness
and toughness for use in hydro turbine components.
Study feasibility of coatings for turbine components on samples of 75 X 75 X 6
(dimensions in mm) dimensions with the help of BHEL R&D, Hyderabad.
Develop a coating profile which will be established by sputtering technique on a
small (3 to 5 inch dimension) hydro turbine blade fabricated as per actual
design and then establish the suitability of the technique for turbine
component coatings.
Progress:
Work of coatings on deposited nano-ceramic thin film “W-Zr-N” on Si (100) p type
substrate through direct/radio frequency (DC/RF) reactive magnetron sputtering
has been developed. The effect of varying deposition parameters on the structural
properties of W-Zr-N has been investigated through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field
Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectra
(EDS) etc. With increase the percentage of nitrogen following observations are
seen through different techniques.
XRD analysis
XRD analysis of the nano-structured sample shows that the preferred orientation
changes of the film deposited at different temperatures ranging from room
temperature to 600 deg temperature.
EDS analysis
Atomic percentage of nitrogen increases in W-Zr-N compound as increases the
nitrogen percentage.
More occupation of the octahedral site by the nitrogen as increases the
percentage of nitrogen which reveals the hardness of film increases.
FE-SEM analysis
Thickness of the film is app. 2 micron.
Topography of 50% N2 film. That shows a very smooth film with very fine
grain structure.

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