Application of Superconducting Fault Current Limiter (SFCL) in Power Systems: A Review

The fault current levels of an interconnected power network have witnessed a general rise due to increase in power demand. This rise in fault current if not properly mitigated may exceed the maximum ratings of the switchgear. Many conventional protective devices such as series reactors, fuses, high impedance transformers, etc. have high cost, increased power loss and loss of power system stability, which may ultimately cause lower reliability and reduced operational flexibility. Superconducting Fault Current Limiter (SFCL) is a flexible alternative to the use of conventional protective devices, due to its effective ways of reducing fault current within the first cycle of fault current, reduced weight and zero impedance during normal operation. This paper reviews various concepts of SFCLs and its applications in power systems.