30 January 20254 min read

Z-tool: Open-Source Frequency-Domain Analysis Toolbox for EMT Models

A Python-based implementation for the stability analysis of converters


Etch - The Energy Transmission Competence Hub - have released an open-source Python-based implementation for the stability analysis of AC/DC power systems.

The PSCAD-based tool is available to download free here

The core functionalities are impedance/admittance characterization and small-signal stability assessment. The analysis relies on an existing system model in the EMT simulation software PSCAD.

The following features are currently implemented and validated:

  • Voltage perturbation-based admittance scan at several nodes, including MMC-based systems and black-box components
  • Stability assessment via Generalized Nyquist Criteria applicable to standalone-stable MIMO systems
  • Oscillation mode identification via eigenvalue decomposition (EVD) and bus participation factors
  • Passivity assessment and Singular Value Decomposition functions

The flowchart below summarizes a common usage of the tool for stability studies, including frequency-domain system identification (frequency_sweep) and several stability analysis functions (stability_analysis):

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Image credits: Etch

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