This question was asked inGPSC Deputy Executive Engineer (Electrical) Class-2 Master Paper 2026Question 141 of 195 published · Gujarat Public Service CommissionOpen paper
Q141ModerateHVDC Transmission

Consider the following statements regarding firing angle control of HVDC Converter:
1. Increasing firing angle reduces DC output voltage.
2. At 90°, converter operates at zero DC voltage.
3. Firing angle greater than 90° corresponds to inverter mode.
Which options stated above is/are correct?

Answer & step-by-step solution
Correct answer: C. 1, 2 and 3 only
Quick explanation

Line-commutated HVDC uses thyristors and depends on the AC system voltage for commutation, so adequate short-circuit strength and reactive-power support are important. AC voltage disturbances can produce commutation failure, particularly at the inverter. Key relation: LCC reactive demand is a significant fraction of transmitted power and is compensated locally.

Exam focus: Strong AC system and commutation margin matter for LCC. Common trap: LCC cannot normally operate a passive AC network without a voltage source.

Statement-wise Verification

  • Statement 1 - Correct.
    Increasing firing angle reduces DC output voltage.
    AC voltage disturbances can produce commutation failure, particularly at the inverter.
  • Statement 2 - Correct.
    At 90°, converter operates at zero DC voltage.
    AC voltage disturbances can produce commutation failure, particularly at the inverter.
  • Statement 3 - Correct.
    Firing angle greater than 90° corresponds to inverter mode.
    AC voltage disturbances can produce commutation failure, particularly at the inverter.

Core Concept

Line-commutated HVDC uses thyristors and depends on the AC system voltage for commutation, so adequate short-circuit strength and reactive-power support are important. AC voltage disturbances can produce commutation failure, particularly at the inverter.

Formula / Key Relationship

LCC reactive demand is a significant fraction of transmitted power and is compensated locally.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option A is incorrect because it omits correct statement(s) 3. Option B is incorrect because it omits correct statement(s) 1. Option D is incorrect because it omits correct statement(s) 2.

Exam Shortcut / Approach

Strong AC system and commutation margin matter for LCC.

Common Mistake

LCC cannot normally operate a passive AC network without a voltage source.

Quick Revision

Firing Angle and Rectifier-Inverter Operation is linked with Converter Control, HVDC Transmission and Power Systems. Strong AC system and commutation margin matter for LCC.

Exam tipStrong AC system and commutation margin matter for LCC.
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