Multi-target fault ride-through strategy for transformerless MMCs under asymmetric grounding faults in AC/DC hybrid distribution networks

Abstract

In AC/DC hybrid distribution networks (HDNs), when asymmetric grounding faults occur, transformerless multiterminal modular multilevel converters (MMCs) should achieve three key targets of fault ride-through (FRT): 1) limiting the unbalanced fault currents; 2) injecting currents to support grid voltages in case of disconnection from grids; and 3) eliminating the zero-sequence circulating currents (ZSCCs) from fault networks through MMCs to nonfaulted networks. However, in medium voltage-level HDNs, the line impedances are mainly resistive-inductive, and traditional current injection methods are no longer effective. Moreover, in neutral nondirect grounding networks with multiple AC voltage levels, the voltages of nonfaulted phases rise, and it is difficult for MMCs to achieve fault current control. To solve the above issues, this manuscript proposes a multi-target FRT strategy. First, negative-sequence current controllers are used to eliminate the negative-sequence fault currents. Then, to support the positive-sequence voltages of grids, optimal and suboptimal active-reactive current references based on the line impedance ratios are proposed. To help transformerless MMCs with low modulation indices eliminate zero-sequence circulating currents, two zero-sequence voltage compensation modes and an improved zero-sequence current eliminator are proposed. Finally, the proposed fault current control is verified in MATLAB/Simulink.