Non-Linear Inductor for Power Electronics Protection

89 Non-Linear Inductor for Power Electronics Protection--Energen, Inc., 7 Riverside Avenue, , Bedford, MA 01730-1528; (617) 271-9876 Dr. Chad H. Joshi, Principal Investigator Dr. Chad H. Joshi, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-97ER82367 Amount: $75,000 Power semiconductor devices used in variable speed motor drives, large-scale DC electric power transmission and circuit breakers can be easily damaged or destroyed by voltages and currents that exceed their rated capacities. Variable-impedance inductors made of rare-earth magnetic materials could help alleviate these kinds of problems. This project is to demonstrate such a technology since these inductors have an impedance that changes depending on the amount of current flowing through them; it is instantaneous and reversible. The key to the development of these products and realization of their economic benefits is the development of low-cost fabrication techniques for the magnetic materials upon which the products are based. In Phase I, samples of the magnetic materials will be fabricated and tested, followed by the design, fabrication, and testing of a prototype inductor. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Power electronics systems are increasingly used to control the flow and distribution of electrical power. These systems would benefit from a reliable passive surge suppression system. These inductors have application to increasing power quality in power distribution systems, reducing motor staring transients, and enhancing the performance of electromagnetic filters. Utilities would also benefit from protective devices that limited the extent of blackouts and reduce damage from excessive currents.