Novel dc/dc choppers with circuit breaker functionality for HVDC transmission lines

This paper proposes two novel dc/dc choppers with dc circuit breaker functionality for HVDC transmission lines. These converters feature step-up and/or step-down functions with instant interruption of short-circuit faults. Compared to other state-of-the-art converter topologies described in the literature, the proposed topologies have better control functions, lower manufacturing costs and reduced energy losses. A double closed-loop controller is designed to regulate the inductor current and output voltage of the converters. An auxiliary controller is also proposed to ensure proper shut-down of the circuit breaker in the event of dc short-circuit faults. The simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed converter configurations and control scheme. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.