Optimum design of matrix fault current limiters using the series resistance connected with shunt coil

Abstract

In this paper we described the improved design for the matrix fault current limiters (MFCL). To do this, we used thin film-type superconducting elements. therefore it means that we can make the MFCL with minimized size and high switching speed because of the high current density and the high indexing value of superconducting thin film. Also we could minimize the bulky shunt coil using the connection of a series resistance with a shunt coil. Also we could effectively block up a leakage current in shunt coils under no-fault condition and simply control total impedances of a current-limiting part using this method. After we designed an appropriated 1×2 basic MFCL module with an applied voltage of 160V, we enlarged it to a 2×2 MFCL module and a 3×2 MFCL module where applied voltages were 320V and 480V, respectively. Experimental results for our MFCL were reported in terms of various fault currents, variation of series resistance and so on. We think that these methods will be useful in the optimum design of an m×n MFCL.