Parameter optimization design method for a fast-switch-based fault current limiter and circuit breaker

Abstract

With the continuous expansion of ultrahigh-voltage power grids, the short-circuit current level is drastically rising, and the hidden dangers of an insufficient circuit breaker (CB) interrupting capacity can seriously threaten the safety and stability of power systems. Fast-switch-based fault current limiters (FSFCLs) can play a vital role here. However, FSFCLs also affect the transient recovery voltage (TRV) of a CB. Hence, for reliable CB interruption, it is necessary to solve the matching problem between the FSFCL and the CB. In this paper, considering different fault conditions, a mathematical model of a CB connected to an FSFCL is established for a CB interruption characteristic analysis. On this basis, using the TRV indicators, the FSFCL withstand voltage and the short-circuit current level as the objective function, a parameter optimization design model for the FSFCL and CB is established. Furthermore, in combination with a genetic algorithm (GA), a parameter optimization design method for the FSFCL and CB is proposed. The practicability and accuracy of the proposed method are validated using Simulink.