Radiated Wideband IEMI: Coupling Model and Worst-Case Analysis for Smart Grid Wiring Harness

The fast transition from the conventional electrical-energy infrastructures to the Smart Grid demands for an in-depth analysis of risks associated to Intentional Electromagnetic Interference (IEMI). In line with this aim, this work presents an approach for the prediction of the effects of wideband radiated IEMI in wire harness, based on a worst-case criterion. For a specified bandwidth and energy density, the waveform of the electromagnetic (EM) field is optimized so to maximize the peak value of the common-mode voltage induced at cable terminals. This solution depends on the unknown direction of incidence and polarization angle of the EM field. The worst-case rationale is therefore extended to the search for the extreme value of the induced peak voltage, which is reached in specific, unfavorable conditions of incidence and polarization, here investigated. Moreover, the impact of the main geometrical/electrical parameters of the wiring structure (length, height, impedances) is assessed.