APPLICATIONS OF FCL FOR FAULT CURRENT REDUCTION

Abstract

Interconnection of networks, increased generation and industrial motor loads has caused large increase in prospective fault current levels. Traditional current limiting techniques have their own limitations. Replacing of entire power system equipment with higher ratings is not an economical solution. A fault current limiter (FCL) is a revolutionary power system device that addresses the problems due to increased fault current levels, by limiting the magnitude of fault current. It can also be employed to prevent tripping of grid connected renewable energy sources by limiting their current contributions to a fault. The utilisation of fault current limiters (FCLs) in power systems could provide an effective way to suppress fault currents. In the present report Control strategy, Modelling techniques, applications, and simulation of a Non-Superconducting Fault Current Limiter is discussed. In a loop transmission or distribution system, the advantages would greatly depend on the number and locations of FCL installations so this report proposes a method to determine the optimum number and locations for FCL placement in terms of installing smallest FCLs circuit parameters to restrain short-circuit currents under circuit breakers' interrupting ratings. The test results demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.