Examining the fault behaviour of a superconducting DC network

A large body of research is currently being conducted into superconducting power system applications, targeting improved efficiency and reductions in system size and weight. In order to attain the required levels of safety and reliability of the superconducting power system, effective protection systems, tailored to the specific fault behaviour of the novel components must also be in place. This paper presents a review of relevant literature concerning the dynamic and transient characteristics of superconducting DC networks and key associated components (such as superconducting cables and machines). This first part of a two stage Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is presented, which provides a conceptual consideration of expected physical failure modes and mechanisms. The effects on the wider network are discussed from which various protection considerations are drawn. A number of key research questions are drawn from this study, which will form the starting point of the second stage of the FMEA. The outputs from the FMEA will shape the protection requirements for a superconducting DC network.