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Power flow analysis and optimal locations of resistive type superconducting fault current limiters.

Published version
Peer-reviewed

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Authors

Zhang, Xiuchang 
Ruiz, Harold S 
Geng, Jianzhao 
Fu, Lin 

Abstract

Based on conventional approaches for the integration of resistive-type superconducting fault current limiters (SFCLs) on electric distribution networks, SFCL models largely rely on the insertion of a step or exponential resistance that is determined by a predefined quenching time. In this paper, we expand the scope of the aforementioned models by considering the actual behaviour of an SFCL in terms of the temperature dynamic power-law dependence between the electrical field and the current density, characteristic of high temperature superconductors. Our results are compared to the step-resistance models for the sake of discussion and clarity of the conclusions. Both SFCL models were integrated into a power system model built based on the UK power standard, to study the impact of these protection strategies on the performance of the overall electricity network. As a representative renewable energy source, a 90 MVA wind farm was considered for the simulations. Three fault conditions were simulated, and the figures for the fault current reduction predicted by both fault current limiting models have been compared in terms of multiple current measuring points and allocation strategies. Consequently, we have shown that the incorporation of the E-J characteristics and thermal properties of the superconductor at the simulation level of electric power systems, is crucial for estimations of reliability and determining the optimal locations of resistive type SFCLs in distributed power networks. Our results may help decision making by distribution network operators regarding investment and promotion of SFCL technologies, as it is possible to determine the maximum number of SFCLs necessary to protect against different fault conditions at multiple locations.

Description

Keywords

Distributed power system, Optimal location, Short-circuit current, Superconducting fault current limiter

Journal Title

Springerplus

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2193-1801
2193-1801

Volume Title

5

Publisher

Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Sponsorship
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EP/K029940/1)
This work was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), project NMZF / 064. X. Zhang acknowledges a grant from the China Scholarship Council (No. 201408060080).