Fault current limiter applications on medium and high voltage power distribution system

Electronically triggered fault current limiters have been used in medium and high voltage power distribution systems, and they are used to limit the available short-circuit current to a lower level, so that under-rated switchgear can be operated safely. However, to insure the safe and proper usage of these devices, there are a few major operating parameters which need to be considered: (1) selection of trigger level; (2) selection of di/dt; (3) the effect of the capacitor bank and stray capacitances; and (4) coordination between these devices and phase overcurrent relays at the faulted breaker. This paper examines these major operating parameters and evaluate the performance of the current limiters under various simulated fault conditions, and develop application guidelines for current limiters.