An Optimal Design Approach for Resistive and Inductive Superconducting Fault Current Limiters via MCDM Techniques

The design process of a superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) requires simulation and definition of its electrical, magnetic and thermal properties in form of equivalent circuits and mathematical models. However, any change in SFCL parameters: dimension, resistance, and operating temperature can affect the limiting mode, quench time, and restore time. In this paper, following the simulation of electrical and thermal behavior of resistive and inductive SFCLs and investigation on their performance variation responded to change parameters, the best design cases will be selected by using multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) techniques. As a case study, to evaluate proposed MCDM approaches in design of superconducting fault current limiter, a model in which a SFCL is located at an outgoing feeder in a 20 kV distribution substation will be considered and best designs will be presented for both resistive and inductive type.