Direct current circuit breaker with parallel connection of main breaker, auxiliary breaker and non-linear resistor

摘要

599794 Disclosed is a device (13) for breaking a direct electrical current flowing through a power transmission or distribution line (14). The device (13) is comprised of a parallel connection of a main breaker (8) and a non-linear resistor (11). The main breaker (8) is comprised of at least one power semiconductor switch of a first current direction (4). The device (13) is further comprised of a series connection of a high speed switch (10) and an auxiliary breaker (9). The high speed switch (10) is comprised of at least one mechanical switch. The auxiliary breaker (9) has a smaller on resistance than the main breaker (8) and is comprised of at least one power semiconductor switch of the first current direction (4). The series connection of the high speed switch (10) and auxiliary breaker (9) is connected in parallel to the parallel connection of the main breaker (8) and the non-linear resistor (11). The device (13) is adapted to open the auxiliary breaker (9) upon receipt of an auxiliary breaker signal prior to a decision to open the main breaker (8) having been taken.