Bridge-type superconducting fault current limiter effect on distance relay characteristics

• The application of SFCLs in networks can affect the protection system.
• The impact of the bridge-type SFCL on the distance relay operation is studied.
• The performance of the bridge-type SFCL causes under reach of relay.
• Presence of the bridge-type SFCL causes a distance converge slower to steady state.

The growth of the electrical energy generation and the increased interconnection of networks lead to higher fault current levels. The superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) offers a solution to these problems with many significant advantages. The bridge-type SFCL can limit the fault current without any delay and smooth the surge current waveform. The application of SFCLs in networks can affect the protection system. In this paper, the impact of the bridge-type SFCL on the apparent impedance of the distance relay is studied. The analytical and simulation studies are presented for phase to ground and phase to phase faults, to show the impact of the bridge-type SFCL on the performance of the distance relay and its characteristics.