Dynamic reactive power compensation system at Jankovci traction substation (EVP)
As part of the electrification efforts for the Vinkovci–Vukovar railway line, KONČAR – Engineering is delivering essential technologies for the main contractor, COMSA, and investor HŽ Infrastruktura.
Several KONČAR entities are involved, with our team providing static converters for dynamic reactive power compensation at the Jankovci traction substation (EVP). This project builds on the successful 2018 trial installation of our state-of-the-art static converters for dynamic reactive power compensation at two traction substations—EVP Mrzlo Polje and Oštarije. In these trials, the existing fixed capacitor bank compensation system was upgraded with KONČAR’s IGBT-based dynamic converters, the KONTRAC PN225AC, capable of adjusting to the variable reactive power demands imposed by train load variations and operational characteristics.
Over years of consistent operation, these newly developed systems have established themselves as a cost-effective technical solution, enhancing energy efficiency and generating substantial financial benefits. Based on the proven reliability of our dynamic compensation systems, HŽ Infrastruktura has chosen our technology for the construction of a reactive power compensation plant at the 110/25 kV Jankovci traction substation. The system will consist of four static converters for dynamic compensation, without requiring fixed compensation components. Each converter provides compensation between 225 kVar capacitive and 225 kVar inductive, offering a total capacity between 900 kVar capacitive and 900 kVar inductive. These converters feature power circuits built from robust components used in railway vehicle converters, ensuring the KONTRAC PN225AC is well-suited to the voltage conditions typical of railway overhead lines.
The converters will be connected via a 1000 kVA power transformer. After successfully completing the final factory tests in April 2022, including parallel operation simulations and full-load testing at nominal power, the converters were delivered and installed at the Jankovci traction substation. The expertise of KONČAR – Institute for Electrical Engineering was instrumental in both the testing phase and the project’s overall realization.
The 18.71 km modernization and electrification of the Vinkovci–Vukovar railway line will not only increase freight transport capacity and improve cargo handling at the port of Vukovar but also enhance passenger rail connectivity between Vukovar-Srijem County and key European transport routes. With train speeds rising to 120 km/h, travel times will be reduced by 50%. This project is co-financed by the European Union under the Operational Programme "Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014–2020" through the Cohesion Fund.