A DC Circuit Breaker with Artificial Zero Current Interruption

A method for inducing a forced DC crossing applied to a Direct Current Circuit Breaker (DCCB) for High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) applications is described. A low voltage prototype was developed, and theoretical analysis was done on the circuit to derive an expression for the fault clearance time. The circuit was modelled on PLECS for verification of the working principle. Hardware was fabricated for a 40 VDC, 2 A continuous current rating; the ideal analytical expression for fault clearance time was verified from the experimental value, which was observed to be 62.76 mu S. Work described is covered by US Patent Publication No. 2017/0345587.