Impact Theoretical Analysis of Resistive FCL on the Rate of Rise of Recovery Voltage Across Circuit Breaker

The utilization of fault current limiters (FCLs) results in a decrease in short‐circuit levels. However, as FCLs are integrated within the fault loop circuit, they may exert a significant influence on the transient recovery voltage and rate of rise of recovery voltage (RRRV) across the circuit breaker (CB) and its interruption duty. This paper investigates analytical formulas for the RRRV in the presence of a resistive FCL (RFCL) in which an improved model incorporating two stray capacitors is proposed to better represent the distributed nature of the RFCL. Furthermore, both terminal faults and short‐line faults are analysed for various topologies, including downstream and upstream connections to the CB, and considering different limiting factors. Computational analysis is conducted on a 20‐kV distribution feeder under a three‐phase fault using the EMTP‐RV environment to assess the most severe transient conditions impacting the CB. The discussed findings present crucial considerations for the appropriate design and implementation of RFCLs to ensure reliable operation of the CB and successful interruption of fault currents.