Impact of converter interface type on the protection requirements for DC aircraft power systems

Fletcher, Steven and Norman, Patrick and Galloway, Stuart and Burt, Graeme (2012) Impact of converter interface type on the protection requirements for DC aircraft power systems. SAE International Journal of Aerospace, 5 (2). pp. 532-540. ISSN 1946-3855 (https://doi.org/10.4271/2012-01-2224)

[thumbnail of Impact_of_converter_interface_type_on_the_protection_requirements_for_DC_aircraft_power_systems_authors.pdf]
Preview
PDF. Filename: Impact_of_converter_interface_type_on_the_protection_requirements_for_DC_aircraft_power_systems_authors.pdf
Accepted Author Manuscript

Download (454kB)| Preview

Abstract

The utilization of converter interfaces has the potential to significantly alter the protection system design requirements in future aircraft platforms. However, the impact these converters will have can vary widely, depending on the topology of converter, its filter requirements and its control strategy. This means that the precise impact on the network fault response is often difficult to quantify. Through the analysis of example converter topologies and literature on the protection of DC networks, this paper tackles this problem by identifying key design characteristics of converters which influence their fault response. Using this information, the converters are classified based on their general fault characteristics, enabling potential protection issues and solutions to be readily identified. Finally, the paper discusses the potential for system level design benefits through the optimisation of converter topology and protection system design.