Overhead Power Lines: Magnetic Field Simulation Near Residential Areas

Physixfactor provides magnetic field simulation for overhead power lines, transformer stations, and underground cables, helping verify compliance with the RIVM‘s 0.4 microtesla exposure limit for residential areas in the Netherlands.

Overhead high tension power line in the Netherlands
Overhead Tension Lines

Transformer Station Magnetic Field Overview

In the right picture an overview is given of a typical situation around a transformation station. Due to the ever increasing demand of electricity many stations need a dramatic upgrade. In existing stations it is a challinging task to do this, if permanent residence is in the neighbourhood. The transformation stations are connected to the overhead power grid for the distribution of electricity power.

Schematic layout of transformer station electrical cables
Electrical cable layout
High tension pylons in Dutch landscape
Pilons in Dutch Landscape

High Tension Masts and RIVM's 0.4 Microtesla Limit

In the Netherlands many masts decorate the landscape transporting the electricity to other locations.

If residential areas are located too close to the high tension lines then in the Netherlands one should do a verification of the magnetic field strength of the lines. Residential areas are not allowed to be developed when the averaged magnetic field during 1 year is higher than 0.4 microTesla. 

Cross-Section Magnetic Fields of Underground Cables

When cables are underground the right picture shows the magnetic field lines 2.45 meter underneath the surface. The software is capable of producing many configurations taking into account the 3 phases.  The red contour indicates the 0.4 microTesla intensity line, which in the Netherlands is the value where residential building can be built as long as the exposure is lower than this value.

Magnetic field cross-section around underground power cables.
Magnetic fields around underground cables
Magnetic field intensity

Magnetic Fields in Twisted Sea Cable Links

Sea cables are important for the transportation of electricity. The relatively strong magnetic fields should be investigated prior to operation. Energy losses should be kept minimal.

With Comsol the magnetic fields are investigated as well as the energy losses with certain configurations.