Electromagnetic Pulse and the Electric Power Network

Abstract

This paper defines the nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP)-electric power system interaction problem. A description of high altitude EMP (HEMP) characteristics, source region EMP (SREMP) characteristics, and magnetohydrodynamics EMP (MHD-EMP) characteristics are presented. The results of initial calculations of EMP induced surges on electric power transmission and distribution lines are presented and compared with lightning induced surges. Potential EMP impacts on electric power systems are discussed, and an overview of the Department of Energy (DOE) EMP research program is presented.