FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS OF SUPER CONDUCTING FAULT CURRENT LIMITER IN SMART GRID USING SIMULINK

Abstract

Interconnecting Distributed Generation (DG) to an existing distribution system provides various benefits as DG provides an enhanced power quality, higher reliability of the distribution system and can peak shaves and fill valleys. However, the integration of DG into existing networks has associated several technical, economical and regulatory questions. Penetration of a DG into an existing distribution system has many impacts on the system, with the power system protection being one of the major issues. DG causes the system to lose its radial power flow, besides the increased fault level of the system caused by the interconnection of the DG. In a smart grid, various kinds of Distributed Generation Sources (DGS) could be connected into the main power grid in order to enhance the reliability of power system. Increase in power generation capacity of electrical power systems has led to increase in the fault current level which can exceed the maximum designed short-circuit ratings of the switchgear. Superconducting Fault Current Limiter (SFCL) is optimal equipment which has the capability to reduce fault current level in power system. The application of SFCL for smart grid is reduction of abnormal fault current and the suitable location in the micro grids. In this work, a resistive type SFCL model was proposed using Simulink tool. The designed SFCL model could be easily utilized for determining an impedance level of SFCL according to the fault-current-limitation requirements of various kinds of the smart grid system. Finally, implementation of SFCL technique in the conventional grid interconnected with wind farm has been carried out to find its optimal location in smart grid having DG.