DC Circuit Breaker – Technologies and Applications

This one-day online workshop focuses on the growing importance of DC circuit breakers (DC-CBs) in modern power systems, especially in the context of medium-voltage DC grids, electric vehicles, and renewable energy integration. As the power industry shifts toward decentralized and DC-based architectures, fast and efficient fault interruption becomes critical.

The workshop will address the role of Solid-State Circuit Breakers (SSCBs) using power semiconductors such as Si-MOSFETs, IGBTs, and SiC transistors. With microsecond-level response time and minimal conduction losses, SSCBs are ideal for future-proof DC protection systems.

In addition to covering technologies and applications, the event aims to foster cooperation between Europe and Japan in SiC-based circuit breaker research, with contributions from leading academics and industry professionals.

Technical Chairs:

• Prof. Thomas Brueckner, University of the Bundeswehr Munich (Germany)

• Prof. Keiji Wada, Tokyo Metropolitan University (Japan)

• Prof. Leo Lorenz, ECPE (Germany)

Main Topics Covered:

• Requirements and architectures for DC-CBs in MVDC grids and EVs

• SiC and monolithic integration strategies for SSCBs

• DC-CBs in industrial, automotive, marine, and HVDC applications

• Device technology and application-specific designs (e.g., PV storage, hybrid circuit breakers)

• Real-world implementation insights from industry leaders

Draft Schedule Highlights:

• Presentations from Schneider Electric, Saitama University, Fraunhofer IISB, Phoenix Contact, Robert Bosch, Infineon Technologies, GPE, SuperGrid Institute, and Scibreak

• Topics include:
  • 900 V SiC SSCBs for 100 A applications
  • SSCBs in EVs (800 V systems)
  • MVDC grid circuit breakers for ships
  • HVDC protection with solid-state devices
  • Hybrid and current-limiting breaker designs

• Full-day session with morning technology focus and afternoon application case studies

• Interactive discussion and Q&A

Why Attend:

• Gain a comprehensive overview of current DC circuit breaker technologies

• Learn how SiC-based devices are revolutionizing fast-switching protection

• Hear from international experts on real-world deployment of SSCBs

• Understand the specific challenges of integrating circuit breakers in MVDC and HVDC systems

• Ideal for engineers and decision-makers in power conversion, renewables, automotive, and shipboard energy systems