April 19, 2013

Researchers Develop Device to Mitigate Blackouts, Prevent Equipment Damage




Solid-state design improves on existing fault current limiters

A local power failure in Ohio ten years ago caused a series of cascading power failures that resulted in a massive blackout that affected 50 million people and caused billions of dollars in damage and lost revenue.

Such blackouts could be prevented in the future, thanks to a new piece of equipment developed by engineering researchers at the University of Arkansas. The device regulates or limits the amount of excess current that moves through the power grid when a surge occurs.