Study of solid state fault interruption device for medium voltage distribution systems with distributed generators

Solid state fault interruption devices (FID) can interrupt fault currents much faster than the presently available circuit breakers. Due to their current inability to block system level voltages, presently available semiconductor devices are connected in series to increase blocking capability of the fault interrupting device. To verify the ability of the interruption device for use in a medium voltage distribution system, a FID model is subjected to simulated tests for continuous current carrying capability, rated fault current interruption, and lightning impulse withstand tests. A simulation to demonstrate the ability of the FID to interrupt fault currents in a 7.2kV distribution system and to study the effect on system voltages is shown.