High energy devices for naval applications are a reality and are becoming ever more powerful. Many of them, whether it be an aircraft launch catapult, high performance sonar system or even a rail gun, have a periodic nature with very high powers imposed for relatively short periods. This type of technology imposes power generation and distribution requirements which are difficult to satisfy. Whilst these requirements will be covered in the design of the next generation of naval platforms this is not the case for existing platforms or those about to be brought into service in the next few years. This paper considers the options that can be adopted to allow existing platforms to incorporate power system features to support high energy devices. The paper also discusses the new technology of High Temperature Super-Conducting fault current limiters which, by reduction of the system short-circuit current, allows existing cabling, and switchgear to be used when upgrading power systems and provides a starting point for naval users when considering how to modify their existing platforms.
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