New Algorithm for Electronic Short-Circuit Detection

New technologies and algorithms for an electronic short-circuit detection in low-voltage switchgears aiming for improvements in current limitation will be presented. For early short-circuit detection, the new "Cubical-Criterion" has been invented. The criterion uses the instantaneous values of current, current rise and current's 2nd derivatives with respect to time as a combined criterion. Combined network and switchgear simulation results will be presented. These simulations show achievable detection times and rates of current-limitation using the new criterion. The implementation of such algorithms in switchgear along with fast actuators can lead to additional current-limitation and therefore to improvements in power system and load protection.