An Overview of Multifunctional Saturated Core Fault Current Limiter: Towards the Application of Better Operational Efficiency

In HVAC system, fault current limiter (FCL) is the most effective way to limit the short-circuit current. The saturated core type FCL (SCFCL) is the most widely used of all FCLs, which has the characteristics of fast response, high reliability and low cost, and is suitable for use in ultra-high voltage systems. However, in actual operation, the SCFCL has the single function of the FCL. Firstly, the research status and development history of multi-function saturated core fault current limiter (MFCL) are reviewed. Secondly, the topologies and working principles of six kinds of multi-function fault current limiter are introduced.. Finally, it is clear that parameter optimization design method and magnetic material optimization are the core issues of MFCL further development. The future development direction of MFCL is also prospected.