Multi-modular bridge-type FCL for enhancing FRT capability of VSC-HVDC connected offshore wind plants during AC faults

Abstract

This paper presents a novel concept Multi-Modular Bridge-Type Fault Current Limiter (MMBFCL) for enhancing the fault ride-through (FRT) capability in Voltage Source Converter (VSC)-based High-Voltage Direct-Current (HVDC) systems. The MMBFCL can be directly connected to HVDC system in ac grid side without series connection of semiconductor switches and series injection transformers. Also, the limiting resistor of each module is determined based on binary arrangements to provide a multi-step insertion resistor BFCL to limit the fault current and enhance the FRT capability under different voltage sag levels. The principle operation and control system of the MMBFCL is described. Then, the performance of the MMBFCL for enhancing the FRT is validated through time domain simulations by PSCAD/EMTDC software in a HVDC integrated wind farm system. Also, the performance of the MMBFCL is compared with the single-modular BFCL (SMBFCL). Simulation results reveal that the MMBFCL compensate the voltage sag for each voltage sag levels without any over voltage at the HVDC terminal. Also, it has superior performance than SMBFCL.