The utility requirements for a distribution fault current limiter

The need for a distribution current limiting device (DCLD) by the utility industry is addressed. An evaluation was made of what specifications would be acceptable and what DCLD technique would fill the utilities' needs. Using this survey and a distribution system analysis, a DCLD that could limit a 20 kA fault to 10 kA in a 15 kV circuit was shown to be the primary candidate for further development. The study showed that gate turn-off thyristors (GTOs) are the best technology available that could be developed into a practical DCLD. A recommendation was made to develop a DCLD using GTOs.<
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