Protection against short-circuit situations and power overload in DC microgrids
Astrol solid-state marine DC breakers provide reliable interruption of fault currents in DC grids. This characteristic is increasingly important in the global maritime industry. The DC breaker is based on modern and powerful IGBT technology. It guarantees reliable protection against short-circuit currents in any part of the grid. Besides, it also enables selectivity in the most flexible way.
Best in category di/dt capability allowing ultra-fast switch-off times
The IGBT technology in combination with MOV guarantees an ultra-fast switch-off times. Short-circuit detection within 2µs, and IGBT switch-off takes less than 4µs. The DC breaker is able to detect, clear and separate short circuits from healthy system parts before they reach dangerous levels. Maximum safety guaranteed.
Stand-alone solution for integration in any type of DC-grid
The Astrol DC Breaker is system independent and can be integrated in any type of DC distribution grid. It constantly monitors current and voltage on the DC bus and reacts autonomously according to predefined settings. Protection functions include protection against short-circuits and power overloads. Internal self-diagnostics constantly monitors the health state of the internal breaker functions and reports irregularities to the overall controller.
Electrical design / topology of the solid-state marine DC breakers
An optimized topology reduces the temperature cycles of the semiconductor modules. This leads to a longer useful life of the IGBTs and reduces system maintenance. Due to the ultrafast detection and switching time, the DC Breaker can safely control low system inductance without adding more inductance to the circuit. With the Astrol DC-Breaker, the system integrator enjoys maximum design freedom.
Balancing switch
When the bus tie breaker is open, the capacitors on each side of the breaker can be charged to different voltage levels. The closing of the bus tie will cause an inrush current, which will immediately trigger the short-circuit detection of the DC breaker. To solve this problem, the Balancing Switch option is available in connection with every Astrol DC breaker.
Balancing switch
Solid-state marine DC breakers with compact modular, mechanical design
The compact mechanical design supports the control concept of the DC Breaker to work as a standalone solution. The isolating fiberglass housing allows easy integration in a cabinet, but also the installation without cabinet. With its modular build-up, the focus lies on standardized power modules, which combine to different voltage and current ratings with minimal mechanical changes. The power modules are accessible from the front and the backside. All components are UL94 certified and vibration tested according to IEC 60068-2-6.
Specialist in maritime DC solutions
