The use of direct current (dc) power networks, either at high voltage or at medium voltage, is being increasingly seen in modern smart grids. This is due to the flexible control possible with dc and its ability to transmit and distribute power under circumstances where alternating current (ac) networks are either unable to, or less economic. This paper provides an overview of the evolution of high-voltage dc (HVDC) transmission from early Thury systems, to modern ultrahigh-voltage dc and multiterminal voltage-source converter systems. The operation of both current-source and voltage-source systems is discussed, along with modeling requirements. The paper provides a snapshot of the state of the art of HVDC with copious references to enable in-depth reading. Key developments over the last 20 years are highlighted. Issues surrounding multiterminal operation and dc protection are explained, along with drivers in economics and policy. This will inform HVDC integration into smart grids.

Medium voltage direct current (MVDC) distribution networks have been considered for various applications, such as offshore wind farm collector systems, all-electric naval vessels, and aircraft. MVDC circuit breakers are a critical technology to directly manage faults in multi-terminal DC (MTDC) networks. However, DC current breaking is much more challenging than in AC systems because there is no natural zero-crossing of the current waveform to aid fault isolation. This paper reviews existing MVDC circuit breaker technologies and also discusses their advantages and disadvantages. This paper also introduces new topologies that can be applied in MVDC applications. The operation of several hybrid DC circuit breaker topologies with aided commutation is included. The paper illustrates that a hybrid DC circuit breaker with aided commutation can clear a fault within 2-5 msecs with low losses, this shows great potential for future MVDC applications. The implications for the practical design of commercial MVDC circuit breakers are also discussed.

This paper assesses the suitability of the moving coil actuator for use as an ultra-fast, long stroke linear drive for HVDC breaker applications. With the help of FEA, a sensitivity analysis of the actuator is conducted in order to better understand how the different design parameters affect the actuator performance. Based on this assessment a high performance actuator design has been implemented using FEA software. Simulation results show the suitability of the moving coil design as an ultra-fast linear driver. Efficiency of the proposed moving-coil design has been calculated and shows a remarkable advantage over other high speed actuator designs.