Solid-State, High-Power AC-Circuit Breaker

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) become an inherent part of the supplying grids within the transition to zero emission. As any infrastructure, these precious installations need to be protected from failure events. However, it is in the nature of these systems, that they are more fragile than classical transformers of mechanical switch gear. Therefore, protection systems need to be reviewed carefully to achieve the highest possible level of protection. As a further stage of protection, solid-state AC-switches come to mind, able to disconnect the battery system from the grid much faster than typical fuses do.

The presentation will give a basic insight into protection schemes and detail how bidirectional IGBT-arrangements can be used as AC-Circuit breakers, along with the challenges this new applications introduces.