B4 – DC systems and power electronics

Mission

To facilitate and promote the progress of engineering and the international exchange of information and knowledge in the field of direct current systems and power electronics. By synthesising contemporary practice and developing recommendations, to add new value to the existing knowledge in this field.

Areas of application

• Equipment for direct current systems, including converter and semiconductor technologies.
• Power electronics for alternating current systems, as well as the improvement of electrical power quality, advanced power electronics and its application.

Scope

Within its technical scope, Study Committee B4 addresses asset management topics throughout the life-cycle phases of equipment; from conceptual solutions, through research, development, design, manufacturing, installation, operation and end of life. In all phases, technical, safety, economic, environmental and social aspects are considered, as well as the interactions and integration with the continuously developing power system and the environment. Also included are all aspects related to performance, specifications, testing and the application of test methods, with particular emphasis on the impact of changing interactions and requirements caused by the development of the power system. Life-cycle assessment techniques, risk management techniques, education and training are also important aspects of the scope.

Within this framework, additional specific areas are:

• Theory, principles and concepts, functionality, technological development, design, performance and application of materials and efficiency.
• Manufacturing, quality assurance, application of guidelines, planning, siting, construction, installation and assembly.
• Reliability, availability, safety, maintainability and maintenance, service provision, condition monitoring, diagnostics, restoration, repair, loading, upgrades and improvements.
• Reconstruction, reuse/reinstallation, ageing, dismantling and disposal.