Compared to the traditional AC power systems widely used today, DC power offers several distinct advantages. For instance, it can reduce grid and electronic device power consumption by 5% to 7% compared to AC systems. It also allows for more effective transmission of power back into the grid from renewable sources like solar panels and energy storage solutions. Additionally, DC power contributes to a more stable grid and facilitates the design of smaller, more compact electronic devices.
Historically, the lack of efficient and cost-effective circuit breaker technology has been a major barrier to the adoption of DC power in critical sectors such as data centers, photovoltaic systems, telecommunications networks, aerospace, electric vehicles, and rail transport. Traditional electromechanical circuit breakers are slow, cumbersome, and prone to generating arcs during DC voltage switching, making them unsuitable for modern DC applications.
The NEST-DC research initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), aims to address these challenges by developing advanced semiconductor-based and fully electronic circuit breakers tailored for DC grids and applications. These innovative solutions will not only enable the reliable switching of DC power but also provide fast and safe disconnection capabilities up to 1,500 volts.
In addition to circuit breaker development, the NEST-DC program focuses on creating novel semiconductor components such as Overcurrent-Breaking Field Effect Transistors (OCB-FETs). These components will be integrated into circuit breakers with new architectural designs and switching technologies. The research findings will be applied across various fields, including aerospace internal power grids, electric mobility, solar power generation, and DC distribution networks.
The NEST-DC project brings together experts from across the entire value chain, spanning semiconductor wafers to complete DC grid systems. Key participants include the Institute of Motor Drive and Power Electronics (IALB) at Bremen University, Airbus Group, ETA Elektrotechnische Apparate, Siemens AG, and Infineon Technologies AG. The European Center for Power Electronics (ECPE) in Neubiberg also provides valuable support.
IALB is tasked with studying and simulating new semiconductor structures for OCB-FETs, conducting static and dynamic measurements of prototype circuit breakers, and analyzing heat dissipation and performance limits. Airbus Group is responsible for identifying aerospace application requirements, exploring suitable topologies, and collaborating on hardware demonstrations in Ottobrunn, Germany.
Siemens focuses on designing the physical structure and connection methods for circuit breakers, while ETA Elektrotechnische Apparate ensures industrial application needs are met. Infineon leads the program, leveraging its expertise in power semiconductors to develop OCB-FET-specific technologies.
Funded with approximately 2.3 million euros by the BMBF, the NEST-DC project commenced in October 2013 and spans three years. Its German name translates to "An Innovative Electronic DC Circuit Breaker for Renewable Energy and Internal Grids," reflecting its mission to drive energy efficiency and sustainability through cutting-edge DC technology.
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