Understanding the Impact of Electrical Faults on High Temperature Superconducting Power Cables for MVDC Power Systems of All-Electric Ships: Understanding the Impact of Electrical Faults on High Temperature Superconducting Power Cables for MVDC Power Systems of All-Electric Ships

The goal of this project is to understand the effect of a parallel electrical fault on high temperature superconducting (HTS) power cables for medium voltage direct current (MVDC) power system for allelectric ships. Of particular interest is to understand how a pole-ground fault may cause physical damage to the associated cryogenic infrastructure required for HTS power cables. The experiments performed at FH Wels replicate similar geometries and materials which could be utilized by HTS power cables in electric ship applications. The findings of this study will support the design in terms of operating voltage and current of HTS cables for electric ship applications. Additionally, the results will give insight into HTS cable designs that will enhance the resiliency and stability of the power systems in electric transport systems to mitigate the effects of a pole-ground fault. A review of the background and principles of superconductivity is discussed. Different high-temperature superconducting cable designs were explored with their merits, demerits, and applications. Commonly used cryogens for HTS cables are discussed along with cable cryostats. Again, the different types of DC electrical faults, the causes and their associated impact on the power system are considered. The measurement was conducted for two different temperature ranges. That is, at room temperature and at cryogenic temperature of 77 K. The experimental setup and methodology are explained in detail. Finally, the results are discussed with conclusions established and suggestions made for future work.