A Bidirectional Series Z-Source Circuit Breaker

A Z-source series circuit breaker topology, which allows bidirectional power flow and has the ability to autonomously disconnect dc faults, is introduced. This topology allows current flow in the forward and reverse directions through the use of a diode bridge. The diode bridge allows response to faults on either the source or load side with only a single controlled switch. No additional passive components are required when compared with the unidirectional series Z-source circuit breaker topology. Analysis is performed to find the fault conditions that cause the bidirectional circuit breaker to trip when operating in a single-load power system. Then, using the simulation platform MATLAB/Simulink, operation of the bidirectional circuit breaker is evaluated for both source- and load-side faults. To experimentally validate the findings, an experimental prototype has been implemented. This prototype is used to confirm the circuit breaker's function in both the forward and reverse directions in addition to its response to source-side faults.