Computer analysis of transient performance of grounding grid element based on the finite-difference time-domain method

It is important to study the transient performance of grounding systems for lightning surges in order to realize electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of sensitive electronics, such as information devices and digital relays in substations and/or residential houses. Grounding grids of buried conductors are considered as the most effective solution for grounding systems of high-voltage substations and large plants, and buried earth rings are effective solutions for grounding systems of communication buildings and residential houses. In this paper, computer analysis based on the finite-difference time-domain (FD-TD) method and experimental results of the transient performance with respect to a grounding grid element, which is also considered as a buried earth ring, are presented and it is confirmed that the novel simulation method is practical for analyzing the transient performance of the grounding grids through comparison of experimental and analytical results.