A static fault current limiting and interrupting device

A new fault current limiting and interrupting device (FCLID) is proposed and analyzed. The proposed FCLID can limit the fault current as well as being able to interrupt it. The proposed device has a simple structure, fast response, and is well suited to the duty required. In this device, the GTO thyristors contribute to the current limiting action, and the parallel impedance is replaced by a nonlinear resistor (varistor). The FCLID offers the following additional advantages. It can be designed to do a self-testing routine periodically, thus its reliable operation can always be checked and maintained. The FCLID can be designed to close or reclose each phase of the circuit (after complete fault interruption) at the suitable instant which produces minimum transients. In addition, the FCLID offers the ability to switch the power circuit ON and OFF via a remote control signal. Finally, the deployment of varistors across the GTO thyristors facilitate GTO series connection which is necessary for high voltage applications