Fault Current Limiters

Grid-level superconductor ”surge protectors”

As the workload of transmission networks grows, the potential for higher-level fault currents—as much ten times standard current levels—also grows.

Advancements in high temperature superconductor (HTS) technology promise an entirely new fault current solution for utilities: a grid-level surge protector known as a fault current limiter (FCL).

HTS fault current limiters are designed to limit current spikes and mechanical forces when short circuits cause power surges. Integrated at strategic network locations, FCLs will bring numerous bottom-line benefits to utilities, including:

• Improved system reliability. HTS FCLs can bring high fault currents—a major source of outages on transmission and distribution girds—under unprecedented control. As a result, utilities can experience secure, stable operation of their ever-expanding urban and suburban power grids.
• Improved power quality. HTS FCLs can eliminate the need for line reactors, which can cause voltage drop and AC losses
• Fail-safe operation. “Smart” HTS materials instantaneously become resistive under high current conditions. This property makes FCLs passive devices, requiring no external current sensing to trigger action.
• Reduced system costs. An HTS FCL can reduce potential fault currents from 10-20 times rated current to 3-5 times rated current. Significant reductions in capital expenditures can result:
  • Protection for costly equipment
  • Elimination of the system-wide need to install numerous higher-capacity circuit breakers
  • Lower costs for upgrading current breakers
  • Reductions in the ratings and size of circuit breakers
  • Elimination of the need for line reactors
  • Minimizing clearance requirements in substations

Testing of FCLs is currently underway at a number of substations. The next generation of FCLs, based on AMSC’s 344 superconductors, is expected to result in even more cost-effective systems.
 

Products

• » Second Generation (2G) Wire- 344 Superconductors
• » First Generation (1G) HTS Wire
• » Insulated HTS Wire

Applications

• » HTS Cables
• » HTS Motors and Generators
• » HTS Degaussing Coils
• » HTS Magnets
• » Secure Super Grids™ Technology

More Literature »

Next Steps…

• » Request more information
  
• » Contact us
• » Attend an event/ webinar