Implementation of Fault Current Limiter in West Java 150 KV Transmission System

Fault current limiter (FCL) is a novel approach in protecting equipment from excessive fault current. In this paper, the whole implementation process of FCL devices is presented. There are two families of modern FCL technology, namely superconducting FCL (SFCL) and pre-saturated core FCL (PCFCL), each with its own techno-economic characteristics. The advantages and disadvantages of each technology will be explored and be compared with the conventional current limiting device, i.e. series reactor. Sizing and calculation processes, as well as design criteria of each equipment, will be presented. We hypothesized that series reactor as the cheapest current-limiter device would be able to mitigate the fault current problem while maintaining the system’s reliability and efficiency. This hypothesis is based on our observation that in West Java 150 kV system, large fault current flows through bus-tie. On the other hand, no significant current flow through bus-tie was observed in normal condition. Lastly, we present the challenges and lessons learned in implementing FCL from a design project executed together by PLN Enjiniring and PLN TJBB in West Java 150 kV transmission network.