A novel low voltage grid protection component for future smart grids

Automated operation and remote control for high and medium voltage transmission grids is already the state of the art whereas distribution automation in low voltage distribution grids is still in its infancy. Sophisticated software and hardware components are required in order to promote advanced distribution automation concepts such as self-healing grids, MicroGrids, early warning systems, or smart consumption (demand side management). In a consortium of eight industrial and scientific partners, Eaton Industries (Austria) GmbH targets the window of opportunity of developing a novel component within the iniGrid-project, the so-called “SmartBreaker”. The SmartBreaker basically serves to protect electrical power systems, like a conventional low voltage circuit breaker. However, due to its novel design, it also incorporates the protection functionality of a residual current circuit breaker and an overvoltage trip. Furthermore, the SmartBreaker provides remote control functionality in order to switch a circuit on or off remotely. In addition, the device includes Smart Meter functionalities such as power/energy monitoring and load profiling. These newly offered features will perfectly meet the future customer's requirements for an anticipated Smart Grid scenario. This paper will give an introduction to the individual functions of the “SmartBreaker”, such as power electronic, relay, short circuit detection, communication and power/energy monitoring.