Zero-sequence current suppression control for fault current damper based on model predictive control

In a multi-terminal direct current (MTdc) system based on a modular multilevel converter (MMC), high-speed and large interruption capability direct current circuit breakers (dc CBs) are required for dc fault interruption. However, commercializing these breakers is challenging, especially offshore, due to the large footprint of the surge arrester. Hence, a supplementary control is required to limit the rate of current rise along with the fault current limiter. Furthermore, the operation of the dc CB is not frequent. Thus, it can lead to delays in fault interruption. This study proposes the indirect model predictive control (MPC)-based zero-sequence current control. This control provides dc fault current suppression by continuously controlling the zero-sequence current component using circulating current suppression control (CCSC) and by providing feedback to the outer voltage loop and inner current loop of MMCs. The proposed control is simulated for pole-to-pole and pole-to-ground faults at the critical fault location of an MTdc system. The simulation is performed in Real Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) environment, which shows that the predictive control reduces the rate of rise of the fault current, providing an additional 3 ms after the dc fault occurrence to the dc CB to clear the fault. Besides, the energy absorbed by the dc CB’s surge arrester during the pole-to-pole and pole-to-ground fault remains the same with the proposed control.