High-speed breaker tested at 1,800 volts in the United States might ignite a surge in DC electricity.
In a groundbreaking advancement, researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have developed a new circuit breaker that operates hundreds of times faster than traditional models, essential for protecting next-generation direct current (DC) power systems. This rapid response device contributes to a safer and more efficient US power grid by enabling rapid interruption of DC faults in medium-voltage grids with significantly faster response times—under 50 microseconds—compared to traditional mechanical breakers [1][3][5].
The key to this innovation lies in the use of an older but robust and affordable semiconductor called a thyristor. By combining thyristor technology with an external circuit to turn off current, ORNL's approach achieves a cost-effective solution for medium-voltage DC grids that had previously been limited by expensive semiconductor options or slow mechanical devices [1][3][5].
This development unlocks the major benefits of a DC grid, including increased efficiency and reduced electricity costs. The ORNL circuit breaker can handle increasing levels of direct current at a lower cost, making it ideal for power distribution at medium voltages (up to 10 kV targeted) [1][3][5]. This reduction in energy losses from AC/DC conversions and improved integration with renewable energy sources and modern loads benefits energy-intensive applications like data centers.
The ORNL team has already proven the technology can be scaled by linking breakers in a series. They are now working toward systems that can handle the 10,000 volts required by future energy demands from applications like AI data centers [1][3][5].
Thyristors, while affordable, have a key limitation: they cannot be easily switched off. However, the ORNL team solved this limitation by designing a novel external circuit that forcibly stops the current. The device interrupts currents of 1,400 volts in less than 50 microseconds, preventing heat buildup and arcing that could damage equipment or cause fires, enhancing grid safety [1][3][5].
This advance supports a modern, flexible, and resilient power grid that can better meet growing energy demands and sustainability goals [1][3][5]. With this new circuit breaker, the widespread use of high-power DC grids becomes feasible, paving the way for a more efficient and safer power distribution network in the US.
[1] https://www.ornl.gov/news/oak-ridge-national-laboratory-develops-affordable-circuit-breaker-direct-current-grids [3] https://www.ornl.gov/news/oak-ridge-national-laboratory-develops-affordable-circuit-breaker-direct-current-grids [5] https://www.ornl.gov/news/oak-ridge-national-laboratory-develops-affordable-circuit-breaker-direct-current-grids
- This advancement in a circuit breaker for DC power systems, developed by ORNL, signifies a significant step in Science and Technology, contributing to Innovation in the industry.
- This rapid response device using thyristor technology would enable safer and more efficient power grids, paving the way for modern Technology applications like AI data centers.
- With the new circuit breaker capable of handling increasing levels of direct current at a lower cost, Energy efficiency and reduction in electricity costs will be major benefits, particularly for energy-intensive sectors such as finance or transportation.
- The ORNL team's work toward systems that can handle the 10,000 volts required by future energy demands can potentially revolutionize Robotics and other high-power applications, furthering the integration of Technology with various sectors of the economy.
