First real-time implementation of DC grid protection strategy

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the performance of a three-terminal DC grid test system modelled in a real-time digital simulator (RTDS) platform at ABB's DC Grid Simulation Center. In this hardware-in-the-loop simulation arrangement, all the converter stations, AC network equivalents, transformers, cables and the DC switchyards including DC breakers are modelled inside RTDS following a dual time-step strategy. However, the entire control and protection system is implemented in the ABB's MACH control and protection platform. The MACH system receives the measurement signals from the RTDS through analog and digital I/O cards and sends switching order to the converter valves and breakers. The selective and time-critical performance of the protection functions in case of DC faults is demonstrated in this paper through real-time simulation.

Current Status and Future Trends in Protection, Control and Communications Testing in Electrical Grids using Real - time Simulation

“…On the other hand, Mathwork´s flagship software, MATLAB, does not fall behind in the incorporation of toolboxes and software solutions for real-time simulation in what is named MATLAB Real-Time Workshop. Experiences of using OPAL-RT Technologies can be reviewed in considerable detail in [41-47, 55, 56] while RTDS can be reviewed in [19,53,[57][58][59][60][61][62][63][64][65][66] and MATLAB Real-Time Workshop can be reviewed in [37,40,59,67,68]. Other references related to this scheme can be found in Table I.…”

“…[36]- [39], [43]- [46], [51]- [53], [56], [62], [63], [66], [69], [70], [72], [73], [78], [83]- [85], [87]- [89], [99], [100]- [116] Use of power hardware in the loop (PHIL) scheme [17], [49], [36], [81], [52], [67], [91], [112], [114], [117]- [120] Use of Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) for measurement, monitoring, and control. [19], [28], [49], [42], [43], [84], [54], [88], [61], [75], [97], [98], [101], [71], [121]- [123] Use of power amplifiers to simulate power signals [17],…”

Modular protection system for fault detection and selective fault clearing in DC microgrids

“…Novel protection concepts for DC networks tend to focus on a defined protection range. In this case, the area to be protected is monitored in real time, as shown in [16]. A digital controller is usually used to monitor the network.…”

Fault distance estimation‐based protection scheme for DC microgrids

“…The small reactor was placed at each head of the line as the protection boundary. It helps discriminate the faulted line from the adjacent lines [6]. However, the selectivity of those mentioned non‐unit protection schemes depends on the complex and coordinated setting values and proper time delays.…”