PowerFactory 2023

P R O D U C T S P E C I F I C AT I O N
F2023

POWER SYSTEM SOLUTIONS

MADE IN GERMANY
BE A PART OF
THE ENERGY
SUPPLY OF
THE FUTURE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Base Package
Load Flow Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Outage Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Short-Circuit Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 PowerFactory Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Sensitivities / Distribution Factors . . . . . . . . . . 4 Network Diagrams and Graphic Features . . . . . . . 6

Basic MV/LV Network Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Results and Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Power Equipment Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Data Converters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Network Representation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 General Software Information . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Network Model Management . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Advanced Functions
Contingency Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Reliability Analysis Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Quasi-Dynamic Simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Optimal Power Flow (OPF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Network Reduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Unit Commitment and Dispatch Optimisation . . . . 13

Protection Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 State Estimation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Arc-Flash Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) . . . . . . . . . . 13

Cable Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) . . . . . . . . . . 15

Power Quality and Harmonic Analysis . . . . . . . . 9 Motor Starting Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Connection Request Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Small Signal Stability (Eigenvalue Analysis) . . . . . 15

Transmission Network Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 System Parameter Identification . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Distribution Network Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Scripting and Automation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Economic Analysis Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Artificial Intelligence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Probabilistic Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package
BASE PACKAGE
LOAD FLOW ANALYSIS
 Balanced and unbalanced load flow for coupled AC and DC grids
 Meshed DC supergrid load flow analysis
 State-of-the-art numerical solvers for fast and robust
­convergence from arbitrary starting-points
 Active/reactive power and voltage regulation options, such as
SVC, shunt and tap controllers
 Station- and network control features, including Q(U)-, cosphi(P)-,
Q(P)-, and droop characteristics
 Local- and remote control options
 Secondary and primary control, inertial response
 Distributed slack by load and generation, including ­interchange
schedules
 Consideration of active and reactive power limits, including
(voltage-dependent) generator capability curves
 Accurate modelling of induction machines
 Voltage dependent load models
 User-definable load flow controller models
 Simple load/generation scaling, as well as automated feeder
load scaling (balanced and unbalanced)
 Determination of “power at risk”
 Consideration of temperature dependency
 Reporting against continuous and short-term thermal ratings,
which can optionally include dependencies on ambient
temperature, wind speed or solar irradiance NEW
SHORT-CIRCUIT ANALYSIS
 Support of IEC 60909 (including 2016 edition), IEEE 141 / IEEE
551 / ANSI C37, VDE 0102/0103, G74 (including Issue 2) and IEC
61363 norms and methods
 Calculation of short-circuit currents in DC grids according to IEC
61660 and ANSI / IEEE 946
 Complete superposition method, including dynamic voltage
­support of generators connected via power electronics
 Fast multiple fault analysis of any kind of fault including
­single-phase interruption, inter-circuit faults, broken conductor
event, fault sweep along lines, customisable short-circuit sweep
diagrams, etc.
SENSITIVITIES / DISTRIBUTION FACTORS
 Comprehensive range of voltage and branch flow sensitivity
calculations
 Transformer and booster sensitivities (continuous and discrete)
1 Requires Contingency Analysis licence
4
 Standard distribution factors (PTDF, LODF, OTDF, PSDF and TCDF)
 Single and multiple sensitivities
 Consideration of contingencies1
 Flexible reporting options
 Modal analysis for identifying strong and weak parts of the
network
BASIC MV/LV NETWORK ANALYSIS
 Voltage profile plots for single and multiple feeders
 Feeder analysis tools, including feeder load scaling for simple
and meshed feeders
 Automated schematic visualisation of feeder topology
 Radial feeder tools, including voltage and phase technology
change tools
 Backbone calculation determining the main connections
between meshed feeders
POWER EQUIPMENT MODELS
 Large and comprehensive Equipment Type Library, fully
version-controlled with regular model updates
 Synchronous machines: motor/generator, selectable complexity
(classical, standard (2.2), Model 3.3, asynchronous starting,
permanent magnet synchronous machine NEW )
 Asynchronous machines: motor/generator, standard (single- or
double-cage IM), saturable (single-cage IM) and doubly-fed IM;
machine parameter identification
 Static generator for generic modelling of wind- and
PV-generators, fuel cells, micro-turbines, batteries, general
storage devices, etc.; support of wind power curve for wind-ge-
nerators in load flow
 Dedicated PV system model with integrated power calculation
based on solar radiation (for Load Flow and Quasi-Dynamic
Simulation)
 External grid model for simple representation of external supply
system
 Simple and complex load models, special MV and LV load
models, including input based on yearly energy values and load
profiles
 Moving train model for the simulation of railway systems in
single phase AC systems and in DC systems
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package
 AC or DC overhead lines (OHL): definition using electrical data
or tower geometries, support for line couplings with shared
rights of way (including AC/DC towers), electrical parameter
calculation for tower geometry, lumped- (PI) and distributed
parameter models (options include: constant parameter,
frequency dependent modal domain, frequency dependent
phase domain), support for all calculation functions (load
flow, harmonics, RMS, EMT, etc.) and power systems studies
(power flow, transient stability, TRV, OHL energisation, reactor
switching, lightning, etc).
 AC or DC cable systems: definition using electrical data or cable
geometry (single- or multi-core), support of cable couplings
(including AC/DC cable systems), lumped- and distributed
parameter models (constant parameter, frequency dependent
phase domain), support for all calculation functions (load flow,
harmonics, RMS, EMT) and power systems studies (power flow,
transient stability, TRV evaluation, cable energisation, etc.).
 Busbar trunking systems: simplified and detailed diagrams,
single, double and 1½ busbar system, with/without tie breaker,
with/without bypass
 Transformers: 2-, 3- and 4-winding transformer/auto transformer,
booster transformer
 Modelling of HVDC systems: line-commutated converters (LCC),
capacitor-commutated converter (CCC), two-level (2L) voltage
source converter (VSC), half- (HB) and full-bridge (FB) modular
multilevel converter (MMC), pulse generator
 Support of HVDC-MMC models type 3 (highly detailed, based
on simplified switchable resistances) up to 7 (RMS-load flow)
according to CIGRE (TB 604)
 Representation of various power electronics (PE) based
equipment using built-in models: PWM Converter, line
commutated rectifier/inverter, motor soft-starter, DC-DC
converter
– EMT modelling of any user-defined PE topology using
individual components (AC-DC interconnector, diode,
IGBT, thyristor, half- and full-bridge MMC valves, inductive
DC-coupling)
– Containment of EMT user-defined PE equipment models
within sub-models, allowing simple and unified single line
diagrams with all other calculation functions
 Static var compensation (SVC), thyristor controlled series
compensation (TCSC), static synchronous series compensation
(SSSC) NEW , shunt/filter models, and harmonic filters (single-
and d­ ouble-tuned, high pass)
 Other network branch models: step-voltage regulator, series
reactor, series capacitor, common impedance, circuit breaker
model (TRV curve, SF6 arcing model), fault-current limiter,
duplex reactor NEW , etc.
 Further network models: AC/DC voltage/current sources, DC
Battery, DC machine, DC load, Fourier and harmonic signals,
impulse current source
2 Requires FMU Model Export licence
 Support of discrete-time modelling using the Modelica
Simulation Language
 FMU export of Modelica models2
 Signal analysis models: Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis
 Protection devices: highly customisable relay models with over
30 basic function blocks; comprehensive relay library for static
and dynamic calculation functions
 Controller models such as station and secondary controller
including various control methods, transformer tap controller,
virtual power plants, load flow capability curves for generators
 Time and Time-Profile Characteristics for simplified modelling of
(recurrent) time series
 Parameter characteristics (scaling factor, vector, matrix, files)
for modelling of load profiles, wind/PV infeed, temperature
dependencies, etc.
 Composite models for branch and node models, including
­template library for handling composite models
 Grid organisation and element grouping (zones, areas,
­boundaries, circuits, routes, feeders, operators, owners, etc.)
NETWORK REPRESENTATION
 Support of any kind of meshed/radial 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-wire AC
and DC networks with combined AC and DC modelling for all
available analysis functions
 Single-phase, two-phase, bi-phase and three-phase technology
with/without neutral
 Hierarchical data model including sites, substations, bays,
primary and secondary equipment
 Detailed primary and secondary substation models (single/
double busbars with or without tie breaker, 1½ busbar, bypass
busbar), extendable for user-specific busbar configurations,
including protection schemes
 Switches and substation equipment such as CB, fuse,
disconnector, load break switch, grounding switch, NEC/NER,
CT, VT, CVT, combined CT/VT, etc.
 Running arrangements and switching rules for substation
­automation
NETWORK MODEL MANAGEMENT
 User-friendly and powerful Data Manager, including address line
for fast navigation
 Network Model Manager with spreadsheets for convenient
management of network equipment data and results
 Flexible grouping and filter functionality
 Grid Variations management with time-stamped grid ­Expansion
Stages and Variation Manager tool
 Highly flexible Study Case concept with definable Operation
Scenarios, Variations, Grids and Triggers
5
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package

 Operation Scenario Manager for displaying and editing  Geographic Diagrams (GPS-based) with background maps
Operation Scenario data  Background Maps representation automated via mapping server
 Project Overview window and Study Case Manager for simplified interface (e. g. Open Street Map, Google Maps4, Esri ArcGIS5)
management of Study Case configuration  Area Interchange Diagrams
 Data (Model) Extension concept for user customisation with  Graphic search option for network elements in diagrams,
user-defined classes and attributes ­including geographic search
 Flexible parameter characteristics  Flexible diagram layer concept with opacity settings for
 Project versioning customisable layer combinations, including annotation layers for
 Database undo and rollback function enriched visualisation options (network diagram, maps, images,
texts, plots, etc.)
 Master and derived projects with merge tools
 Single line diagram handling across Variations and Expansion
 Project combination and project connection assistant
Stages
(horizontal/vertical)
 Automated drawing of Site and Substation Diagrams
 Data encryption for local database3
 Diagram Layout Tool for auto-drawing or assisted drawing of full
or ­partial network, feeders, protection devices (CTs, VT, relays),
OUTAGE MANAGEMENT
branches, site and substation diagrams as well as auto-ex-
 Tool for management of planned outages pansion of diagram
 Schedule supports various recurrence patterns  User-definable symbols and composite graphics
 Support of associated remedial actions  Global template libraries (e. g. for substation configurations,
 Action macro recorder to facilitate definition of remedial action WTGs, PV systems)
events  Numerous diagram colouring and result visualisation modes
 Integrated functions to apply and reset planned outages  Flexible Heatmap background colouring scheme
 Tabular reports and Gantt diagrams with various filter options  Navigation Pane facility
 Graphical visualisation of outage and remedial actions, including  View Bookmarks for quick navigation between zoom areas
affected regions  Diagram export and printing functionality with comprehensive
print configuration options
POWERFACTORY ADMINISTRATION  Tabbed window with browser-like navigation
 User accounting, data access and function access rights  Interactive split views for working simultaneously in multiple
 User authentication via PowerFactory user administration, diagrams or plots
including password policy settings, or via external authenti-
cation services, such as LDAP or Microsoft Active Directory RESULTS AND REPORTING

Team Edition  Extremely rich set of calculation quantities

 Multi-User database with team working functionality and  Comprehensive reports library for all calculation functions
support of simultaneous user sessions  Support of various report formats such as PDF, together with an
 Database housekeeping mechanisms inbuilt PDF viewer NEW

 Project archiving  Powerful Report Designer, for customised reports NEW

 Offline Mode via locally cached database and possibility for
synchronisation with multi-user database when connected to the
network (requires Network Licence with Floating Licence)
NETWORK DIAGRAMS AND GRAPHIC FEATURES
 Simplified single line diagrams for schematic and design views
with diagram conversion options
 Detailed single line diagrams showing full switch and component
model including primary and secondary equipment
 Graphical representations of sites, substations and bays
 Intelligent Overview Diagrams supporting node and branch views
 Inbuilt tabular reports for specific functions
 Tabular result views via configurable Flexible Data pages
 Export of results to standard data formats
 Flexible reporting and result visualisation in network d­ iagrams
 Interactive output window with flexible filter functionality
 Numerous interactive plots for result visualisation (differential
and t­ ime-over current protection, harmonics, stability and
transients, ­eigenvalue analysis, etc.)
 Easy-to-use plot navigation (e. g. scaling, zooming, moving/
sliding, stretching/compressing, etc.)

3 DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted databases. In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details of an encrypted
database are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
4, 5 Upon request: additional licence agreements with map service providers apply

6
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Base Package

 Highly customisable plot layouts and styles, including curve  Integrated Report Designer tool NEW
representation, axis and labels, gridlines, title, and legends  User profiles with customisable toolbars, dialogs and context
 Intelligent Plots with statistics functionality menus
 Digital Signal plot and Fault Recorder view  Functional integration for all power system applications,
 Powerful results comparison mode including transmission and distribution, ­industry, renewables
and smart grids
DATA CONVERTERS  Various interfaces for communication and data exchange with
third-party systems
 Support of various data conversion and interfacing options for
 Fully supports Unicode (UTF-8) for text encoding NEW
bi-­directional data exchange
 Fully compatible with MS Windows 64-bit version
 DGS interface: Bi-directional, flexible DIgSILENT data exchange
format (ASCII, XML, CSV, ODBC) supporting GIS and SCADA  Compliance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)
interfacing  Data management and persistent database storage
 Data import converter:
– PSS/E, PSS/U, PSS/ADEPT HUB (Siemens/PTI)
– Sincal (Siemens)
– UCTE (ENTSO-E)
– CIM data exchange tools6 (ENTSO-E Profiles 2009, CGMES
2.4.15 certified and CGMES 3.0), including CIM model editor
and validator
– Neplan
– Integral 7 (FGH)
– Elektra
– ISU (SAP)
– Reticmaster (Inspired Interfaces)
– PRAO7
– ANAREDE and ANAFAS
 Data export converter:
– CIM8 (ENTSO-E Profiles: 2009, CGMES 2.4.15 certified and
CGMES 3.0)
– UCTE (ENTSO-E)
– PSS/E9 (Siemens/PTI)
– Integral 710 (FGH)
– ANAREDE and ANAFAS11

GENERAL SOFTWARE INFORMATION

 Comprehensive examples including linked demo videos on the

DIgSILENT YouTube channel
 Interactive introductory tutorial and various advanced f­ unctions
tutorials
 Complete and well-structured User Manual (1400+ pages)
 Detailed Technical References for all Power Equipment models
 User-friendly GUI with new modern appearance, available in
multiple languages
 Output window including icons, colours, tabs and filters for
­categorisation and visualisation
 Integrated script editor

6 – 11 Not part of the Base Package; this function has to be requested separately

7
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
CONTINGENCY ANALYSIS  Regional equivalent method for flexible reduction of
neighbouring systems
 AC, DC and AC linearised analysis methods, including r­ egional
assessment  Network Reduction for Dynamic Equivalent, to support b­ alanced
RMS simulations14
 Outage levels: n-1, n-2, n-k
 Numerous options for aggregation of non-linear elements
 Fast contingency screening with recalculation of critical cases
using AC method  Capturing of reduction via Variation for convenient toggling
between original and equivalent grid
 Single and multiple time phase consideration
 Dynamic contingencies option for creating fault cases
PROTECTION FUNCTIONS
“on the fly”
 Remedial Action Schemes for flexible and dynamic analysis of  Comprehensive relay library with relay models suitable for
post-fault actions steady-state, RMS and EMT calculations15

 Substation automation via switching schemes  Synchronisation with DIgSILENT StationWare

 User-configured time-sweep analysis with parallelisation option  Highly-detailed spreadsheet reports for protection settings
(overcurrent, distance, voltage, frequency protection)
 Generator effectiveness and quad booster effectiveness
 Graphical visualisation and editing of fuses, relays, CTs and VTs
 Enhanced Fault Case management
including auto layout functionality
 Comprehensive spreadsheet reporting features, including
 Protection Audit
graphical ­visualisation of critical cases
– Validation tool for protection settings and configurations
 Tracing of individual contingency cases
– User-configurable fault types assessments
 Contingency comparison mode
– Automatic determination of protection topology
 Parallelised Contingency Analysis using multiple cores
– Automatic short-circuit calculation
QUASI-DYNAMIC SIMULATION – Multiple predefined reports with auto-identification of critical
pro­tection settings (device coordination, device tripping times,
 Medium- to long-term simulations based on steady-state fault clearing times)
analysis
– Short-Circuit Trace functionality for steady-state simulation of
 Time and Time-Profile characteristics for simplified modelling of fault c­ learance and relay responses
(recurrent) time series
 Consideration of planned outages, network Variations and Time-Overcurrent Protection
Expansion Stages  Overcurrent-time diagram with drag & drop functionality
 Flexible definition of simulation time range with arbitrary ­including auto-generated graphical legend
resolutions  Cable and transformer damage curves
 Simulation plots and tabular reports including statistical analysis  Motor starting curves
 QDSL-language for user-definable models (load flow and  Automatic display of measured currents
quasi-dynamic equations)  Steady-state response checks
 QDSL model encryption functionality12  Steady-state short-circuit simulation with tracing of individual
 Parallelised simulation using multiple cores steps
 Use of neural networks for fast approximation of results13  Steady-state tripping times for transient or sub-transient current/
voltage values
NETWORK REDUCTION  Transient response checks16

 Flexible definition of boundaries with Boundary Definition Tool  Protection Graphic Assistant

 Calculation of (AC or DC) load flow and short-circuit ­equivalent – Customisable short-circuit sweep diagrams including
visualisation of protection settings
 Support of load, Ward, extended Ward and REI-DIMO
­equivalents

12  Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models.
In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
13 Requires Artificial Intelligence licence
14 Requires RMS Function licence
15, 16 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence

8
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

 Protection Coordination Assistant  Automated preparation of Arc-Flash labels

– Automatic calculation of overcurrent protection settings  Automatic protection-based fault clearing time ­determination19
– Support of various coordination methods and setting rules,  Calculation of arcing-current energy
including user-defined rules
 Protection Model Features CABLE ANALYSIS
– Fuses and low-voltage circuit breakers
Cable Sizing
– Positive-, negative-, zero-sequence inverse and definite time
characteristics  Automatic cable sizing based on IEC 60364-5-52, NF C15-100,
NF C13-200, BS 7671, and VDE 0100-520, etc.
– Thermal overload characteristics
 Cable reinforcement optimisation
– Directional elements supporting cross-, self- and memory
polarising, Wattmetric method  Verification of global and/or individual thermal & short-circuit
constraints
– Differential unit with harmonic blocking for multiple h­ armonic
orders  Verification of user-defined voltage drops per terminal and/or
feeders
– Generic and detailed manufacturer-specific recloser units
 Balanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced calculation with
– Signal transmission between relays, inter-tripping,
support of all phase technologies (1-, 2- and 3-phase systems,
interblocking schemes
with or without neutral conductor)
– Detailed CT, VT, combined CT/VT, and CVT models i­ncluding
 System phase technology and cable type consistency checks in
­saturation
the feeder
– Over-, under-voltage inverse and definite time ­characteristics
 Various verification reports and automatic modification of cable
– Programmable logic unit types in the existing network via network Variations
– Over-, under-frequency and df/dt inverse and definite time
characteristics17 Cable Ampacity Calculation
 Cable Ampacity calculation based on IEC 60287 or
Distance Protection ­Neher-McGrath method
 Includes full “Time-Overcurrent Protection” module  Evaluation of maximum allowable current for cables based on
 P-Q diagrams and R-X diagrams with support of the display of cable material, laying arrangement and environmental data
­measured impedance trace including presence of external heat sources
 Time-distance diagrams, with metric or calculated display of  Convenient cable layout modelling capabilities, supporting all
zone reach in forward and reverse direction laying arrangements of single and multi-core cables
 Protection Graphic Assistant  Rich reports and automatic modification of cable derating
– Reach of protection zones colourings in diagrams factors in the existing network via network Variations

– Protection Coordination Assistant

– Automatic calculation of distance protection settings
– Support of various coordination methods and setting rules, Harmonic Load Flow
including user-defined rules
 Protection model features
– Generic and detailed manufacturer-specific Mho, polygonal
distance zones and distance starting units
– Out of step detection and power swing blocking unit18
ARC-FLASH ANALYSIS
 Arc-Flash calculation for AC systems in accordance with IEEE
1584-2002 and -2018, NFPA 70E-2021 and DGUV 203-077
 Arc-Flash calculation for DC systems in accordance with NFPA
70E-2021 and DGUV 203-077 NEW
 Incident Energy, Flash-Protection Boundary and PPE Category on
the single line diagram
POWER QUALITY AND HARMONIC ANALYSIS
 Harmonic voltage and current indices (IEC 61000-3-6,
BDEW 2008)
 Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced (multiphase)
model
 Option to consider n-1 / n-k contingencies20 NEW
 Unbalanced harmonic sources with consideration of phase
angles
 Non-characteristic and inter-harmonics
 Multiple harmonic injections: current and voltage sources,
thyristor ­rectifiers, PWM-converters, SVS, non-linear loads,
Norton equivalents
 Background distortion frequency-dependent R and L values

17 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) licence

18 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence
19 Requires Protection Functions licence
20 Requires Contingency Analysis licence

9
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
 Various harmonic distortion indices such as THD, HD, HF, THF,
TAD, TIFmx, total RMS currents and voltages, loadings and
losses (defined according to IEEE and DIN/IEC standards)
 Harmonic distortion plot with pre-defined distortion limits
according to international standards
 Waveform plots
 Calculation of K-Factors and Loss Factors for 2-winding
transformers (UL1562, EN 50464-3 (replaces BS 7821), EN
50541-2, IEEE C.57.110-1998)
Flicker Analysis
 Flicker Assessment (IEC 61400-21)
– Short- and long-term flicker disturbance factors for continuous
and switching operations
– Relative voltage changes
 Flickermeter (IEC 61000-4-15)
– EMT or RMS signals
– Support of multiple file formats such as COMTRADE, CSV,
­user-defined, etc.
Frequency Sweep
 Automatic step size adaption or constant step size
 Balanced (positive sequence) and unbalanced network model
 Option to consider n-1 / n-k contingencies21 NEW
 Self and mutual impedances/admittances (phase and s­ equence
­components)
 Frequency-dependent R and L values and line/ cable models
 Spectral density of voltage amplitude/angle
 Risk assessment of sub-synchronous oscillations using radiality
factors
Filter Analysis
 Various filter models
 Design and layout parameters
 Filter sizing and verification reports
 Ripple control analysis
CONNECTION REQUEST ASSESSMENT
 According to:
– D-A-CH-CZ guidelines Editions 2 and 3 NEW
– BDEW 2008, 4th Supplement
– VDE-AR-N 4105 guidelines (2011 and 2018)
– VDE-AR-N 4100 guidelines (2018) NEW
– VDE-AR-N 4110 guidelines (2011 and 2018)
 Assessment of:
– Voltage changes and flicker
– Voltage imbalance
21 – 23 Requires Contingency Analysis licence
10
– Loadings and short-circuit currents
– Harmonics, interharmonics, audio-frequency ripple control
– Commutation notches
– Interharmonic voltages
– HV resonances
TRANSMISSION NETWORK TOOLS
PV curves calculation
 Voltage stability assessment by determination of critical point of
voltage instability
 Support contingency analysis, i.e. detection of “limiting
­contingency”22
QV curves calculation
 Voltage stability limit assessment by evaluating the bus voltage
change w.r.t. variation of injected reactive power
 Evaluating of stable operating points for various system loading
­scenarios, including contingencies23
 Determination of reactive power compensation by superposition
of ­capacitor characteristics in QV plots
Power Transfer Distribution Factors
 Analysis of the impact of a power exchange between two
regions
 Various load and generation scaling options
Transfer Capacity Analysis
 Determination of maximum power transfer capacity between
two regions
 Various load and generation scaling options for exporting and
importing region
 Thermal, voltage and contingency constraints options
Flow Decomposition NEW
 Calculation of loop flows, transit flows and import/export power
flows
 Identification of HVDC- and phase-shifting transformer induced
cycle flows
DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TOOLS
Low Voltage Load Flow Calculation NEW
 Load flow calculation which takes into account the stochastic
consumption behaviour of loads
 Use of coincidence curves linked to LV loads
 Optional scaling and coupling
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
Hosting Capacity Analysis
 Evaluation of the maximum distributed energy resources (DER)
and/or spare load capacity of a network
 Consideration of thermal, voltage, protection24 and power
quality limits25
 Graphical visualisation of maximum, minimum and average
­capacity of the system
 Tabular reports of the maximum capacities and limiting
­components for feeders and terminals
 Parallel computing using multiple cores
Tie Open Point Optimisation
 Optimisation of tie open point positions subject to loss minimi-
sation, i­mprovement of system reliability, or minimisation of
switching actions
 Support of balanced/unbalanced systems including consideration
of thermal and voltage limits and voltage drop / rise
 Simultaneous optimisation of single or multiple scenarios and
time periods
 Branch and boundary flow limits, absolute voltage, and voltage
drop/rise constraints
 Enhanced reporting features and graphical visualisation,
including a­ utomatic identification of tie open points
 Various methodologies, such as mesh exploration heuristic,
­genetic algorithms, and simulated annealing
Voltage Profile Optimisation
 Verification and optimisation mode
 Voltage profile optimisation for bi-directional power flows in
systems with a high level of distributed generation
 Determination of optimal distribution transformer tap positions
for p­ roduction and consumption cases (simultaneous or
­independent)
 Combined consideration of MV and LV feeder voltage profiles
with enhanced plotting features
Phase Balance Optimisation
 Automatic reconnection of loads, generators, and/or branch
elements in order to achieve minimal power imbalance
 Minimisation of imbalance at feeding point or average imbalance
in feeder
 High flexibility to also allow for partial reconfiguration
 Capturing of results via Variations for convenient toggling of
original and optimised phase connections
 Various methodologies, such as standard heuristics, genetic
­algorithms, and simulated annealing
Optimal Equipment Placement
 Determination of optimal locations and sizes of new storage
units and voltage regulators
24 Requires Protection Functions licence
25 Requires Power Quality and Harmonics Analysis licence
26 CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately
27 Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence
 Economic assessment to minimise the overall costs including
costs for installation, operation and maintenance
 Optimisation of existing storage units, voltage regulators and
transformers
 User-definable time periods and resolutions
 Consideration of thermal and voltage limits, as well as
equipment-specific constraints
 Automated generation of optimal time characteristics for power
dispatch of storage units and tap positions of voltage regulators
 Numerous reporting facilities and result visualisations
 For standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in
solver
 For solving large-scale problems: integrated interface to external
solvers such as CPLEX and GUROBI26
Optimal Capacitor Placement
 Determination of optimal locations, types, phase technology and
sizes of capacitors
 Economic assessment considering costs of losses against
­installation costs under predefined voltage constraints
 Support of load variation via characteristics
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS TOOLS
Techno-Economical Analysis
 Economic assessment of network expansion strategies
 Net Present Value method considering costs of losses,
investment costs, economic impact of failure rates (only with
Reliability A
­ nalysis functions), and project schedules
 Efficiency ratio evaluation to determine optimal year of
­investment
 Parallelised execution using multiple cores
 Study Case Comparison tool, for the evaluation and comparison
of different network development strategies
 Reporting options for input data and calculation results
Power Park Energy Analysis
 Economic evaluation of power plants based on load flow
calculations, with three calculation methods for energy analysis
 Basic Analysis:
– Designed for power parks consisting of wind generators
– Simulation of power generation via wind speed distribution
(Weibull) and wind power curves
 Time-series Analysis27:
– Energy analysis of power parks over a user-defined period of
time using the quasi-dynamic simulation
– Highly flexible data input, using characteristics for many
network equipment parameters
11
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
 Probabilistic Analysis28:
– Power park energy analysis, taking probability distributions of
various quantities into account
– Monte-Carlo and Quasi-Monte Carlo methods available
– Range of further statistical evaluation possibilities
– Comprehensive report function: report losses, profits and
costs, energies, full load hours and more
– Selection of relevant plots with predefined variables
PROBABILISTIC ANALYSIS
 Network assessment based on probabilistic input data
 Supports Probabilistic Load Flow and Probabilistic Assessment
of OPF29
 Unlimited stochastic input data modelling with flexible
­distribution curve objects
 Includes probabilistic modelling of generation with PV systems
and/or wind generators, as well as variable load consumption
 Support of numerous distributions, such as uniform, normal,
­­log-normal, Weibull, exponential, geometric, Bernoulli, finite
discrete
 Modelling of dependencies via correlation objects
 Auto-conversion tool to estimate distributions and ­correlations
based on historic profiles/ time series data
 Monte Carlo and fast Quasi-Monte Carlo method
 Determination of statistical results for any calculation ­quantity,
including means and standard deviations (with their confidence
intervals), maxima, minima, higher order momenta
 Rich post-processing and plotting facilities for calculation
­results, i­ncluding their distribution functions, density functions,
­correlations
 Post-assessment of critical worst-case or average cases via
­Probabilistic Analyser
RELIABILITY ANALYSIS FUNCTIONS
Failure Models
 Line/cable, transformer, distribution transformer, busbar and
circuit breaker failures
 Generator failures with stochastic multi-state model
 n-1, n-2 and common mode failures (n-k)
 Double earth faults
 Independent second failures
 Protection/circuit breaker failures
 Protection over-function
28 Requires Probabilistic Analysis licence
29 Probabilistic assessment of OPF also requires Optimal Power Flow licence
12
Optimal Power Restoration
 Failure effect analysis (FEA)
– Automatic protection-based fault clearing
– Intelligent high-end system restoration with potential network
­reconfiguration and load-shedding
– Support of branch and boundary flow limits, absolute ­voltage,
and voltage drop/rise constraints
– Sectionalising (remote controlled switches, short-circuit
­indicators, manual restoration)
– Substation automation with switching rules
 Animated tracing of individual cases
 Detailed reports for restoration action plans
Reliability Assessment
 Fast state enumeration for balanced/unbalanced systems,
including optimal power restoration techniques
 Calculation of all common reliability indices (IEEE 1366)
 Contribution of components to reliability indices
 Support of load variation, including load distribution curves
 Support of generation dispatch profiles
 Consideration of maintenance schedules
 Support of various tariff and cost models
 Parallelised Reliability Assessment using multiple cores
Optimal Remote Control Switch (RCS) Placement
 Determination of optimal number and locations for RCS
­installation for improvement of system reliability
 Economic assessment for various objective functions
Optimal Manual Restoration
 Calculation of optimal switching scheme for manual power
­restoration phase
Optimal Recloser Placement
 Optimal locations for reclosers, to improve reliability indices
Generation Adequacy Analysis
 Stochastic assessment of system supply capabilities (loss of load
probabilities, capacity credit, etc.)
 Consideration of generator outages and maintenance s­ chedules
(Monte Carlo), as well as load variation
 Enhanced probabilistic models for wind generation
 Rich suite of reporting and plotting tools
Loss of Grid Assessment
 Risk assessment for loss of grid supply to critical power stations
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

OPTIMAL POWER FLOW (OPF)  Optimisation (AC and/or DC) of generator dispatch schemes
including hydro units, batteries and general storage devices, as
 Optimisation of load flow according to user-selected objective well as control units such as phase shifters and HVDCs
functions
 State-of-the-art solutions for performance and memory
 For AC Optimisation, standard solver or IPOPT solver NEW efficiency
 For DC Optimisation, standard CBC or LP solver, or commercial  User-definable time periods and resolutions
solvers such as CPLEX or GUROBI30 NEW
 Hard and soft constraints including branch and boundary flow
Reactive Power Optimisation limits, voltages, as well as ramping, minimum up/down times or
spinning reserves of generators
 Minimisation of total or partial grid losses
 Consideration of contingencies in the optimisation, including
 Maximisation of reactive power reserve
parallelisation option32
 Reactive power optimisation (interior point method)
 Powerful redundant constraint filter methods
 Various controls such as:
 Seamless integration of all market parameters into network
– Generator reactive power model
– Transformer and shunt taps  Numerous reporting facilities, and result visualisations ­including
– Static Var Systems energy plots and dispatch schedules
 Flexible constraints such as:  Post-assessment tools for detailed investigations
– Branch flow and voltage limits  Automated generation of optimal solution scenarios and time
– Generator reactive power limits series

– Reactive power reserve  For standard size optimisation problems: ships with built-in
solver
– Boundary flows
 For solving large-scale problems: integrated optional interface to
Economic Dispatch external solvers such as CPLEX or GUROBI33
 Various objective functions, e. g.:
– Minimisation of losses STATE ESTIMATION

– Minimisation of costs (eco dispatch)  P, Q, I and V measurement models

– Minimisation of load shedding
– Optimisation of remedial post-fault actions, e. g. booster tap
changes (pre-to post-fault)
 AC optimisation (interior point method)
 DC optimisation (linear programming)
 Various controls such as:
– Generator active and reactive power
– Transformer, quad booster and shunt taps
 Measurement plausibility checks
 Automatic bad data detection/elimination
 Verification of system observability
 Various options to handle unobservable regions (e. g. pseudo
measurements)
 Consideration of load flow constraints
STABILITY ANALYSIS FUNCTIONS (RMS)

 Static Var Systems  Multi-phase AC networks, DC networks

 Flexible constraints such as:
– Branch flow and voltage limits
– Generator active and reactive power limits
– Active and reactive power reserve
– Boundary flows
 Contingency constraints31 (DC only)
UNIT COMMITMENT AND DISPATCH OPTIMISATION
 Power plant dispatch optimisation for Market Simulation
 Minimisation of redispatch costs, such as operating, emission
and startup costs, including curtailment of renewables / load
shedding
 Support of balanced and unbalanced grid conditions
 Fast, fixed step size and adaptive step size algorithm
 A-stable numerical integration algorithms supporting long-term
stability simulations with integration step sizes ranging from
­milliseconds to minutes, individually selectable for each model
 High precision event and interrupt handling
 Simulation of any kind of fault or event
 Transient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. machines)
 Support of all protection library relays
 Real-time simulation mode

30 CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

31, 32 Requires Contingency Analysis licence
33 CPLEX and GUROBI licences to be purchased separately

13
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
 Simulation scan feature, e. g. frequency scan, loss of synchronism
scan, synchronous machine speed scan, voltage-/voltage
recovery scan, fault ride through scan or common variable scan
 Frequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)
and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range
assessment
 Frequency Response Analysis tool for dynamic models with
Bode/Nyquist plots
User-Defined Dynamic Models (UDM)
 High-level UDM Representation
– Graphical modelling environment for the development of
UDMs
– Support of native models (inbuilt elements, DSL and
Modelica), as well as externally-interfaced models (FMI and
IEC 61400-27)
– Support of highly scalable concepts for deployment of UDMs
in large power networks using Composite Model Frames and
Composite Models
– Access to input/output signals of any network element
– Support of scalar and vector based signals as well as various
signal multiplexing options for easy distribution of signals
from/to many components
– Nesting of Composite Model Frames enabling complex
system architectures e. g. interfacing between dispatch
center controls, power plant controls and subordinated power
equipment components
– Inbuilt support for creation of user-defined power electronics
topologies for EMT Simulation via submodels
– Support of complete power equipment models: easily pack,
export, import and deploy complex UDMs using General
Templates
 DIgSILENT Simulation Language (DSL)
– Graphical modelling environment for development of complex
DSL models
– Large inbuilt library of DSL macros for simplified creation of
block diagrams
– Support of complex non-linear time-continuous control
models including advanced functionality e. g. step size
independent solution, instantaneous event triggering, fast
simulation options
– Inbuilt editor for coding user-defined DSL models using
DIgSILENT Simulation Language
– Large inbuilt standard model library, including IEEE, IEC,
WECC and CIM ENTSO-E models
– Automatic initialisation of complex, non-linear models
– Configuration script for initialisation using DPL
34 Licence for DPL/DSL/QDSL encryption required. Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models.
In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
35 Requires FMU Model Export licence
36 OPC interface licence required
37 C37 Simulation Interface licence required
38, 39 EMT licence required
40 Requires separate Co-Simulation Interface licence
14
– Compilation of DSL models into DLLs for improved simulation
performance
– DSL Encryption function34 for protection of intellectual
property data when using non-compiled (open) DSL models
 Modelica Simulation Language
– Graphical modelling environment for development of complex
Modelica models NEW
– Inbuilt library of Modelica basic blocks for simplified
creation of models containing hierarchically structured block
diagrams NEW
– Support of time discrete (clocked) control models including
array signals and variables, sequential algorithms and
selectable data types
– Inbuilt editor for coding user-defined models using Modelica
Language
– Hierarchical parameter structure for Modelica models NEW
– Configuration script for initialisation using DPL NEW
– Export Modelica model using the FMU Export function35
(FMI 2.0)
 Interfaces for Dynamic Models
– Import external models using Functional Mock-up Interface
(FMI 2.0 for Co-Simulation, FMI 2.0 for Model Exchange)
– Import external models using IEC 61400-27 DLL C-interface
– Communicate with external components using the OPC
interface36 for various applications (e. g. real-time simulation)
– Communicate with external components using the IEEE
C37.118 simulation interface37 for PMU data streaming
Co-Simulation Functionality
 Single domain co-simulation (RMS balanced – RMS balanced,
RMS unbalanced – RMS unbalanced, EMT-EMT38)
 Multiple domain co-simulation (RMS balanced, RMS unbalanced,
EMT39)
 Co-simulation with external solver40 (e. g. third party power
systems s­ imulation program) using FMI 2.0 (Functional Mock-Up
Interface) standard
 Computing supported as built-in for increased performance
 Both accurate (implicit) and fast (explicit) co-simulation m
­ ethods
­available
 Support of multi-port Norton/Thevenin remote network
equivalents for explicit method
 Easy to define co-simulation border using boundary objects
 Any number of co-simulation regions can be defined
 Co-simulation of networks split by regions depending on any
criteria: localisation, voltage levels, etc.
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions
ELECTROMAGNETIC TRANSIENTS (EMT) User-Defined Dynamic Models
 Integrated simulation of electromagnetic transients in
­multiphase AC and DC systems Co-Simulation Functionality
 Fast, fixed step size or adaptive step size algorithm
 Simulation of static var compensations (SVC), thyristor controlled
series compensations (TCSC), FACTS, STATCOM, etc.
 Modelling of HVDC interconnections: line commutated converter
(LCC) HVDC, two-level PWM Converter, half- and full-bridge
MMC converter
 Power electronic devices and discrete components (diode,
thyristor, PWM converter, rectifier/inverter, DC valve, soft starter,
etc.)
 Support of advanced constant and frequency-dependent
distributed parameter models for OHL and cables
– Phase- and modal-domain model types
– Parameter calculation for overhead lines and cables
– Twisting overhead lines and cross-bonding of cables
– Multi-phase single- / multi-core, cable and tubular cable
systems
– Calculation of layer impedances and admittances
 Non-linear elements and saturation characteristics, including
definition of hysteresis
 Series capacitors, including spark gap model
 Surge arrestor models
 Impulse voltage and current source for lightning surge analysis
 Support of AC-DC intercircuit fault events
 Accurate EMT models of renewable generation (wind/PV, etc.)
and storage systems
 Discrete R-L-C elements
 Flexible template definition to create and re-utilise user­specific
models library
 Insulation coordination analysis including temporary (TOV),
switching (SOV) and lightning (LOV) transient over-voltages
 Stochastic switching analysis and point-on-wave (POW)
switching
 Simulation scan feature (variable scan) NEW
 Frequency Analysis Tool, including Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)
and Prony Analysis for single point in time as well as time-range
assessment
 Inrush, ferro-resonance, SSR and TRV studies
 COMTRADE file support
 Sophisticated circuit breaker modelling and switch event options:
DC breaker support, TRV envelope curve, phase scatter upon
switching
41 Requires Quasi-Dynamic Simulation licence
42 Requires Stability Analysis Functions (RMS) or Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) licence
 See RMS module for details
 See RMS module for details
MOTOR STARTING FUNCTIONS
 Single or multiple motor starting
 Transient motor starting (synchr./asynchr. motors), with full
­support of controller models
 Steady-state motor starting
 Various motor starting methods (reactor, auto transformer,
variable rotor resistance, star delta, thyristor softstarter, start at
any speed, etc.)
 Thermal limit check of cables and transformers
 Automatic starting check function, visualised in single line
diagram
 Detailed report
SMALL SIGNAL STABILITY (EIGENVALUE ANALYSIS)
 Full and selective eigenvalue analysis
 Balanced (positive sequence) or unbalanced network represen-
tation, i­ncluding combined AC and DC modelling, with non-­con-
ventional generation such as wind turbines, PV systems, HVDC,
VSC and other FACTS devices
 Interactive and mutually linked eigenvalue, mode bar and mode
phasor plots
 Visualisation of eigenvectors in network diagrams
 Tabular reports of eigenvalues, including damped frequencies,
damping time constants
 Detailed reports of oscillatory modes including participation
factors of state variables, controllability and observability
SYSTEM PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION
 Parameter estimation of non-linear dynamic MIMO-systems fully
­integrated with DSL modelling
 Black box parameter estimation of non-linear systems
 Identification of any calculation relevant parameter (type,
element, control model)
 Multi-parameter identification with flexible upper/lower
limitation
 Various algorithms available (gradient based, swarm
­intelligence, pattern search, global optimisers)
 Support of load flow, Quasi-Dynamic Simulation41,
RMS-simulation (balanced/unbalanced) and EMT-simulation42
 Multiple options for optimisation, using field measurement data
or simulation results
15
 PowerFactory | Product Specification – Advanced Functions

SCRIPTING AND AUTOMATION

 Python: Integration of Python as programming language with

full PowerFactory data model access and rich function suite
 DPL (DIgSILENT Programming Language):
– C-like syntax supporting unlimited access to PowerFactory
­objects, parameters and their functionality
– Extendable function scope of DPL via C-Interface, thus
allowing access to external data and applications
– Encryption of DPL Scripts43
 Detailed Scripting Reference documentation for DPL/Python
(total of 1500 pages) including function descriptions and
example code snippets
 Add-on Modules: framework for user-extendable function scope
including data model extension concept for user-definable input
attributes and result parameters
 API (Application Interface): C++ interface for full external
­automation of PowerFactory
 Task Automation Tool for parallelised execution of calculation
functions and scripts

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

 Innovative use of neural networks for fast power system analysis

 Automatic generation of datasets for neural network training
 Training of neural networks using GPU capabilites44
 Application of trained neural networks for ultra-fast
Quasi-Dynamic Simulations

INTERFACES

 API-Application Interface (API is part of the module “Scripting

and Automation”, see section above)
 OPC DA/UA Interface45 – SCADA interoperability standard, A/D
signal interfacing
 IEEE C37.118 simulation interface46 – PMU protocol
 Co-Simulation interface47 – Third party EMT/RMS co-simulation
interface based on the FMI 2.0 standard

43 Requires DPL/DSL/QDSL Encryption Function licence. DIgSILENT does not give any express warranties or guarantees for cryptographic security of encrypted models.
In particular, DIgSILENT does not guarantee that the details and functionalities of an encrypted model are secure against all means of access or attack attempts.
44 Requires dedicated NVIDIA GPU with a compute capability of 3.5 or higher
45 Requires OPC Interface licence
46 Requires C37 Simulation Interface licence
47 Requires Co-Simulation Interface licence

16
NOTES
NOTES
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