Introduction of a Hybrid SFCL in KEPCO Grid and Local Points at Issue

This report presents efforts for introducing a hybrid superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) associated with the substation upgrade in the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) grid and points at issue on the utility demands. The substation upgrade includes replacement of 154 kV/22.9 kV main transformers and applying 22.9 kV/3 kA SFCLs to protect them. The SFCL is expected to meet not only the general requirements, but also such local conditions as (1) small size to be installed in an in-house substation, (2) sustainable current limitation without the power line breaking by circuit breakers (CB) for maximum 2 seconds. Optionally, recommended are (3) the reclosing capability and semi-active function. Different types of currently developed SFCLs have been examined associated with the conditions. We have proposed a hybrid SFCL of first peak non-limiting type, which potentially fulfills all the local conditions. As an intermediate step, a 22.9 kV/630 A hybrid SFCL was built. This SFCL meets the field requirements of the size limit, 1.5 seconds sustainability of current limitation, 0.3 s reclosing capability and semi-active function. The upgraded hybrid SFCL will be installed in the KEPCO's test line for operation tests. There are two major test targets; long term operation test of the SFCL and protection coordination test using artificial faults.