Laboratory setup for teaching DC grid droop control and protection

Abstract

Low voltage DC grids are gaining attention to replace traditional AC grids in home and office. Especially protection and power congestion management is better utilized in a DC grid. The paper discusses the requirements on a hardware laboratory setup, to teach the basic principles as well the applications of DC grids for home and office applications. Using a laboratory setup, a DC grid can be constructed, where the student can learn the basic topology of the power electronics and also the functioning of the control of the power electronics. Improved protection based on rate of change of current is implemented and can be tested as well as inrush current protection of connected external loads. Secondly, the student can build a DC grid where various types of droop control strategies can be implemented. The learning objectives range from an in-depth understanding of the power electronic circuit to the design and implementation of various strategies for power congestion management. The laboratory exercises are accompanied with extensive online simulation exercises where all aspects of the power electronics, the protection, and the droop control are to be prepared by the student.