SUPERCONDUCTING LOW-VOLTAGE DC TRANSMISSION NETWORKS

A new paradigm for electric power transmission based on high temperatu re superconducting de networks is studied as a feasible alternative to ac power transmission systems. The de network operates at generation voltages allowing for direct connection of the generators to the recti fiers, eliminating the need for high voltage insulation and transforme rs. The overall system consists of a mesh connected, low voltage, high current de superconducting transmission system, supplied by unit conn ected generators and feeding many small inverters to pass controlled l evels of real and reactive power to ac loads. This paper introduces th e concept of a superconducting de mesh. Inverter topologies and contro l strategies required for interfacing the ac distribution systems to t he de mesh. The paper presents a conceptual overview of the operation of the system based on simulation studies.