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Transverse-field vacuum interrupter. Volume 2. Development of a vacuum arc current limiter. Phase III: the conceptual design and rating of a 145-kV FCL. Final report

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6461886

Phase 3 of this research project developed a conceptual design and rating for a 145-kV fault current limiter (FCL). The design uses two 72-kV modules in series, each of which in turn uses two commutation devices and a conventional vacuum interrupter in series. These three devices are paralleled by a 25 ..mu..F capacitor and a metal oxide nonlinear resistor having a clamping voltage of 62.5 kV. This arrangement has a capability extrapolated from experiments of commutating currents greater than 16 kA (instantaneous). Analyses involving assumptions about the sensor and actuator characteristics indicated tht the 145-kV FCL could limit the worst fault from a source capable of producing 15-kA rms fault current. In the event of failure to limit the first loop of fault current, the presence of the series-connected vacuum interrupter assures a first current zero limitation of the fault. Application and system analysis showed that no source feeding a 145-kV/15-kA FCL is likely to exceed 15-kA rms fault current. The design parameters of the major components are specified, and their embodiment into a 145-kV/15-kA FCL are described. While an FCL could now be built for field testing, it is recommended that a Phase 4 program be carried out to simplify the commutation device and to optimize the cost effectiveness of the 145-kV FCL.

Research Organization:
Westinghouse Electric Corp., Pittsburgh, PA (USA). Research and Development Center
OSTI ID:
6461886
Report Number(s):
EPRI-EL-2890-Vol.2; ON: DE83901936
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English