Segmented Shielding Pipe Connectors for HVDC Transformers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatus for electrically connecting multiple conductors and shielding pipes in transformers and inductors are complex and costly, with sharp edges and high electrical field strengths posing challenges for efficient and safe operation under high voltages.
Innovation Solution
A simplified design using pipe connection pieces bonded to shielding pipes via material-bonded connections, such as soldering or welding, eliminates the need for a complex housing, allowing for separate production and assembly, and incorporates paper insulation and a pressboard barrier system to enhance electrical insulation and prevent high electrical field strengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a connecting element with housing, openings, cavity and inner electrode is used to join shielding pipes, then the electrical connection of conductors is achieved, but the design becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is segmented into multiple pipe connection pieces, each independently connected to a shielding pipe. This segmentation eliminates the need for a complex housing structure while maintaining the electrical connection function. Each pipe connection piece can be manufactured separately and then assembled, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing, openings, cavity and inner electrode are extracted from the connecting element design. Only the essential pipe connection pieces remain, which are directly connected to the shielding pipes. This extraction removes unnecessary structural complexity while preserving the core electrical connection functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a complex housing structure is used to join shielding pipes, then the conductors can be connected, but sharp edges and high electrical field strengths cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe connection pieces are designed with curved surfaces instead of sharp edges or corners. This curvature eliminates concentrated electric field points, preventing high electrical field strengths that could lead to breakdown or discharge. The smooth transitions in the pipe connection pieces ensure uniform electric field distribution.
3Productivity
If a complex housing is used to hold shielding pipes, then the electrical connection is achieved, but production and assembly become time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into separate pipe connection pieces that can be manufactured independently using standard piping components. This segmentation allows for parallel production of multiple pieces and simplifies assembly, as each piece can be attached to its corresponding shielding pipe without requiring complex housing assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe connection pieces serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical support for the shielding pipes, establish electrical connections between conductors, and eliminate the need for specialized housing structures. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components and simplifies both production and assembly processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution reduces costs, prevents sharp edges and high electrical field strengths, enabling the apparatus to handle higher voltages while improving electrical insulation and monitoring capabilities, making it suitable for high-voltage applications like HVDC transformers.
Implementation Method 1
Each pipe connection piece is expediently connected to the respective shielding pipe by means of soldering or welding
Implementation Method 2
Each pipe connection piece is expediently connected to the respective shielding pipe by means of soldering or welding
Implementation Method 3
The connecting element and each shielding pipe advantageously have a paper insulation on the respective outer side... each shielding pipe and the connecting element are surrounded by a barrier system made of pressboard... the insulation capability of the apparatus according to the invention is improved
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for electrically connecting at least four electrical conductors includes a connecting element and at least four shielding pipes, which are each provided for receiving at least one conductor. In order to enable a simple and economical connection, the connecting element forms pipe connection pieces and each connection piece is integrally joined or materially bonded to a respective shielding pipe.