Rectifier Fault Currents

Abstract

CURRENTS in excess of normal, or fault currents, flow in rectifier circuits under conditions of arc-back or d-c short circuit. In normal service, faults are imposed on rectifiers by both the arc-backs that occur in the rectifier itself and the short circuits that occur in the external d-c system. Rectifier units must, therefore, include suitable protective switchgear to limit the magnitude and duration of the fault currents in order to 1. Prevent damage to the rectifier, transformer, and other parts. 2. Limit the disturbance on the a-c and d-c systems.