Fault Current Limiting Using Continuously Variable Series Reactor

Abstract

The University of Central Florida invention is a novel device and method for fault current limiting using a Continuously Variable Series Reactor (CVSR). Fault currents are excessive, unwanted currents created by electrical short circuits. They are triggered by events such as damaged power lines or lightning, for example. These excessive currents in an electrical system can cause one or more parts of the system to fail. Traditionally, power companies use fault current limiters (FCLs) to manage such incidents and prevent interruptions to electrical systems. Though FCLs are cost-effective and low maintenance, they are bulky and lack flexibility. In addition, they can decrease the power factor due to constant reactive power loss and may thus create voltage problems.

UCF's CVSR invention provides a novel method for limiting fault current. A CVSR is a device that can vary the reactance in an alternating current (AC) circuit using the magnetizing characteristic of its ferromagnetic core shared by AC and direct current (DC) windings. The DC current bias can vary the CVSR's AC equivalent reactance for a variety of applications in electric power systems, including controlling power flows, balancing loads, filtering harmonics, damping oscillations and, with this invention, limiting fault currents. During fault conditions, the CVSR is automatically reconfigured to present high impedance in the circuit and limit the fault current to a desired level. Simulation results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the method.

Partnering Opportunity: The research team is seeking partners for licensing, research collaboration, or both.

Stage of Development: Proof of principle by computer simulation.

Benefit

Market Application