Fault Current Limiter Research Articles

System Studies of DC Reactor Type Fault Current Limiter in Distribution Grid

A DC reactor type fault current limiter (FCL) in series with a downstream circuit breaker can be a solution to control fault current levels in electrical distribution systems. In order to integrate the DC reactor type FCL in to power grid, the performance of the DC reactor FCL should be studied. In this paper, short circuit analysis, based on the electromagnetic transient program (EMTP), has been used to investigate the behavior of the DC reactor type FCL installed in an electrical distribution grid. System studies show that the DC reactor type FCL can not only limit the fault current to an acceptable value, but also can mitigate the voltage sag. The Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) could be damped in the presence of the DC reactor type FCL during fault clearing period, too

An asymmetric stabilizer layer structure of REBCO superconducting tapes for resistive superconducting fault current limiters

Used in resistive superconducting fault current limiters (R-SFCLs), REBCO tapes are required to have both large current limiting resistance and high over-current bearing capacity. The contradiction between high resistance and large over-current is the main difficulty in the design of REBCO-tape structure for R-SFCLs. In this paper, an asymmetric stabilizer layer structure of REBCO tapes has been proposed, fabricated and tested for R-SFCLs. Comparing to traditional tapes with a symmetric stabilizer structure, the REBCO tape with new structure showed a 59 % improvement in over-current bearing capacity: the peak current increased from 1020 A to 1620 A while keeping the same total resistance. Simulation calculation on the current distributions in every layer showed that the asymmetric structure is superior to the symmetric structure.

Conceptual design and simulation of a thermal matrix-type SFCL

Simultaneous quench is a prerequisite for achieving high-rated voltage and current in superconducting fault current limiters (SFCLs) based on superconducting thin films. In this article, we propose the T-MSFCLs, i.e. the matrix-type SFCLs (MSFCLs) with thermally-assisted simultaneous quenches, to mitigate hotspot and dielectric breakdown problems. We present the typology of the non-isolated and isolated T-MSFCLs and develop a computational model for evaluating their quench performances. The short-circuit simulation results demonstrates that the quench propagation between SFCL elements is easy to establish and is self-sustaining in the non-isolated and the isolated T-MSFCLs due to an electric-thermal coupling. The effects of Jc distribution and shunt layers on quench properties are studied. We find that T-MSFCLs always produce global quench despite having poor global uniformity ΔJc/Jc . The quench activation, quench development and the current-limiting properties of T-MSFCL are relevant to the parameters of shunt layers and the weakest SFCL element. The design parameters of the shunt layers are the main conditions for the maximum tolerance voltage and the maximum response rate of the T-MSFCL. By generalizing these findings, a method for capacity design of T-MSFCL is presented.

Inexpensive short-circuit current limiter and switching device based on one commutation circuit for a three-phase system

The escalating levels of fault currents resulting from short circuits, particularly in the context of distribution generators, have presented a critical need for the widespread implementation of fault current limiters (FCLs) in power systems. Despite their evident advantages, the extensive adoption of FCLs has been hindered by the high production costs associated with these devices. To address this challenge, a comprehensive study was conducted to develop a cost-effective FCL tailored specifically for three-phase power systems. This paper proposes a novel approach based on a single commutation circuit for the FCL and offers detailed insights into the construction of the FCL circuit, with a particular focus on efficient current interruption. Additionally, the study comprehensively discusses the logic controller and measurement system employed in conjunction with the proposed FCL, ensuring precise fault detection and rapid response to disturbances within the power grid. The integration of an artificial zero-crossing circuit within the FCL design further enhances its capability to limit short-circuit currents proactively, even before the occurrence of the first peak, thereby bolstering overall system reliability and stability. The study's significant contribution lies in achieving cost-effectiveness through the simplicity of the FCL's design, eliminating the need for extensive upgrades to various network components.

A Novel Scheme to Protect Distribution Networks in Presence of Inverter-Based Distributed Generation

One of the most important challenges of distributed generation (DG) development in distribution systems is their protection. It is necessary to have a scheme for keeping the protection settings unchanged. In this paper, adverse impacts of the inverter based distributed generation (IBDG) are evaluated, and an algorithm is proposed to limit the fault current, feed, which is generated by IBDGs. This algorithm is only implemented on the inverter controller and other elements are not used in fault current limitation. The simulation results are provided to verify the proposed control scheme.

Research on the dynamic characteristics of the electromagnetic repulsion mechanism of a self-driving fault current limiter

A fault self-driven current limiter is proposed in the paper, which uses a special fault current direct-driven electromagnetic repulsion mechanism to realize the first half-wave of the fault current over the zero point into the current-limiting reactance. The paper analyzes the working principle of the self-driven electromagnetic repulsion mechanism, establishes the equivalent model of the mechanism, and simulates the dynamic characteristics of the electromagnetic repulsion mechanism through the calculation of the double-layer iterative algorithm in time and space. The LC oscillation loop test platform is built, and the stroke–time curve of the prototype is measured. In the test, the prototype is driven by a 3 kA current, and the first half-wave stroke (FHWS) is 3.55 mm past the zero point, which is consistent with the simulation and test results. The effects of structural parameters such as the radius, thickness, and number of turns of the self-driven electromagnetic repulsion mechanism on the dynamic characteristics of the electromagnetic repulsion mechanism are investigated, and it is found that the first half-wave stroke can be significantly improved by increasing the number of turns and outer diameter of the coil. The optimum height of the dynamic repulsion coil is approximately 3 mm.

Models for Fault Current Limiters based on Superconductor Materials

The present paper introduces the main electric applications of superconducting materials, focusing on Superconducting Fault Current Limiters (SFCL). In recent years, short-circuit current values have increased, mainly due to a higher penetration of distributed generation. Fault Current Limiters (FCL) based on superconductor materials can provide one of the most promising solutions for limiting those fault currents. Nowadays, research focuses mainly on resistive SFCLs, because of size, cost and product maturity. Several modelling approaches for resistive type current limiters, as proposed in the literature, are reviewed hereby.

Mitigating commutation failures in HVDC systems with SFCL deployment

Commutation failures represent a prevalent issue encountered in line-commutated-converter high voltage direct current (LCC-HVDC) systems. As the widespread deployment of HVDC systems continues, the risk associated with commutation failures increases, posing a growing threat to power grids due to their potential to trigger severe consequences, including cascading failures and widespread blackouts. This research paper aims to address the significant issue of commutation failure within direct current (DC) systems through advocating for the use of resistive-type Superconducting Fault Current Limiters (R-SFCLs). To substantiate the efficacy of this proposed strategy, an array of simulations are executed using the PSCAD/EMTDC software. This comprehensive study investigates the performance characteristics of R-SFCLs configured with varying resistance values, scrutinizing their response under diverse fault resistance scenarios and distinct fault initiation times within the LCC-HVDC system. The outcomes of these simulations are that SFCLs confer significant advantages for mitigating commutation failures, surpassing traditional mitigation methods in terms of effectiveness. Consequently, SFCLs emerge as an optimal solution to prevent commutation failures in the HVDC systems.

Transient performance improvement of DFIG‐based wind farm by H‐bridge fault current limiter

AbstractDespite the unique advantages a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) offers to the grid‐integrated renewable energy systems, they have a limitation of being susceptible to grid fault as their stator windings are directly connected to the grid. The fault current limiters (FCLs) provide a sustainable solution by enhancing the fault ride‐through capability and thus it improve the transient performance of a DFIG. In this work, a multi‐inductor‐based H‐bridge fault current limiter (HBFCL) is proposed to augment the transient performance of a DFIG. The operational efficacy of the HBFCL is evaluated through the administration of both symmetrical and asymmetrical fault scenarios. The effectiveness of the HBFCL is further investigated by comparing the performance of the HBFCL with that of the bridge‐type series dynamic braking resistor (BSDBR). Both the graphical and numerical interpretations of the simulation result assert that the HBFCL improves the transient performance of a DFIG‐based wind farm and outweighs the performance of the BSDBR in all aspects.

Research on optimal configuration of fault current limiter based on reliability in large power network

Research on optimal configuration of fault current limiter based on reliability in large power network

Fault Current Limiting and Grid Code Compliance for Grid-Forming Inverters—Part II: Solution

Fault Current Limiting and Grid Code Compliance for Grid-Forming Inverters—Part II: Solution

Current Limit Transfer and Recovery Characteristics of Resistive-Inductive Type Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Current Limit Transfer and Recovery Characteristics of Resistive-Inductive Type Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Research on the Arc Characteristics of a New Self-Driving Fault Current Limiter

Research on the Arc Characteristics of a New Self-Driving Fault Current Limiter

The Research of Novel Saturated Core Fault Current Limiter Considering the Short-Circuit Current Transient Component

The Research of Novel Saturated Core Fault Current Limiter Considering the Short-Circuit Current Transient Component

Optimizing Grid Stability through the Integration of Wind Energy

It has become increasingly apparent that wind energy can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and reducing fossil fuel reliance. In spite of this, wind's intermittent nature makes it challenging for grids to maintain stability. The objective of this paper is to review the current state of wind energy integration, highlighting key research findings on the potential of wind power, turbine performance, and approaches to enhance grid stability. A particular part of the research focuses on the modelling of DFIG systems, which includes the rotor control mechanism as well as the grid control mechanism at the grid side of the generator. Voltage fluctuations, transients in the power system, and reactive power management are among the technical challenges associated with wind power integration. SFCLs (Superconducting Fault Current Limiters) are also explored in the paper as innovative solutions for improving grid stability. As a result of simulations, it is demonstrated that SFCLs can mitigate power deviations and improve overall system stability to an extremely high degree.

Simulation Analysis and Steady-state Operation Tests of Magneto-biased Superconducting Fault Current Limiter on a 66kV Power Substation in China

Simulation Analysis and Steady-state Operation Tests of Magneto-biased Superconducting Fault Current Limiter on a 66kV Power Substation in China

Two-Stage DC Fault Current Limiter Combining Hybrid Magnetic Materials and Active Flux Coupling Coils

Two-Stage DC Fault Current Limiter Combining Hybrid Magnetic Materials and Active Flux Coupling Coils

Application of Electrical Industry Standards to Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Application of Electrical Industry Standards to Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Comparing Copper With Stainless Steel as a Stabilizer Layer in Resistive Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Comparing Copper With Stainless Steel as a Stabilizer Layer in Resistive Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Fault Current Limiter Principle by Switching Magnetic Circuit

Fault Current Limiter Principle by Switching Magnetic Circuit