A Novel DC Circuit Breaker with an Absorbing Branch Based on TVS Diodes

Circuit breakers used in DC applications depend on energy absorbing elements to dissipate the energy generated during the interruption process. These elements, frequently presenting a non-linear voltage-current characteristic, allow the absorption of high amounts of energy. Commonly applied energy absorbing elements consist of Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) thanks to their low cost and good overvoltage suppression capacity. On the other hand, MOVs have low operating speed and may experience thermal runaway. To address MOVs shortcomings, this paper proposes a hybrid circuit breaker with a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode as an alternative to the MOV. Design guidelines for a proper selection of TVS devices are provided.