Modelling and Comparison of Common Functionalities of HVDC Circuit Breakers

Abstract

The performance of AC circuit breakers (CBs) has been well analyzed and standardized, but current interruption with HVDC CBs is very different and therefore its functionalities will be different. Considering also that several fundamentally different HVDC CB technologies are emerging (IGBT-based hybrid, thyristor-based hybrid and mechanical), there is a need for a universal set of modelling requirements. This paper investigates a simulation test circuit set up and a set of PSCAD-simulated scenarios which reveal essential performance for most common HVDC CB technologies. Universal test circuit and tests will enable comparisons between technologies and set the ground for interoperability and standardization. Demonstration of low current interruption is required since it leads to longer interruption time for some DC CBs. Not all DC CBs are capable of interrupting reverse current, while others have different performance compared with positive current interruption. The study shows that various DC CBs respond differently under high current in circumstances where there is no trip signal from the protection system in which case its self-protection activates. DC CBs may respond differently with change in system parameters like different cable.