A New Protection Scheme for MMC-Based MVdc Distribution Systems With Complete Converter Fault Current Handling Capability

Abstract

DC fault handling is a critical aspect for designing and operating dc distribution systems. DC distribution protection must be rapid to avoid the damages caused by the fast growth of dc fault currents. For medium-voltage dc (MVdc) distribution systems, low-cost high-speed dc breakers are still challenging. A hybrid modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based dc fault protection and restoration method is proposed for a cost-effective dc fault protection solution for MMC-based MVdc systems. In the proposed protection solution, the converter topology and associated fault handling can bypass and interrupt the fault currents from both ac and dc sources, and thus allowing fast dc fault isolation by low-cost no-load dc disconnectors. Furthermore, the proposed dc protection solution facilitates converter fault ride-through and system restoration after fault removal. Simulation results of the pole-to-pole fault protection show the satisfactory performance of the proposed protection solution and scheme.