This patent describes a circuit breaker and a branch for fault current management, specifically designed for energy transmission applications using Direct Current (DC). This system is particularly useful in meshed DC networks, multi-terminal HVDC networks, or HVDC lines.
The device aims to:
- Electrical System Protection: The primary function of the circuit breaker is to protect energy transmission systems against overvoltages and fault currents, ensuring the safety and integrity of the electrical system.
- Overvoltage Suppression: The inclusion of a pre-chargeable capacitor helps suppress overvoltage that can occur when the breaker opens, preventing damage to system components.
- Operational Efficiency: The system design, which includes charge and discharge sub-branches, optimizes energy management, allowing the capacitor to be charged before breaker operation and quickly discharged to the transmission line when needed.
- Flexibility in HVDC Applications: The system is adapted to work in different HVDC network configurations, enhancing versatility and efficiency in energy transmission applications.
- Reliability: The use of controlled semiconductor switches for managing the capacitor's charging and discharging contributes to more reliable and efficient operation, minimizing the risk of system failures.
The patent offers an innovative solution for fault current protection and management in DC energy transmission systems, increasing the safety and efficiency of operations in HVDC networks.
Publications:
- WO2017025927A1, February 16, 2017 (filed on 08/11/2016 - PCT/IB2016/054850)
- EP3335287B1, June 10, 2020 (filed on 08/11/2016 - EP16767016.5A)
- US10840699B2, November 17, 2020 (filed on 08/11/2016 - US15/751,971)
