Zoning in High Voltage DC (HVDC) Grids using Hybrid DC breaker

Inter-regional dc grids can be defined as systems characterized by multiple protection zones. The build-up and operation of large dc grids will require isolating healthy sections or zones of the network from zones with faults. The rapid collapse of the dc voltage in case of faults requires components with very fast response times. ABB’s hybrid dc breaker technology boasts of response times of ~2 ms which will enable the operation and protection of large dc grids. From the hybrid breaker principles towards an 11 terminal system with control and protection details, the feasibility of the zoning concept is demonstrated.