Overview

• The ORNL prototype interrupts 1.4 kV faults in under 50 microseconds, outpacing previous thyristor-based breakers by a factor of four to six.
• Researchers connected multiple thyristor modules in series to handle up to 1.8 kV without compromising interruption speed.
• Teams at ORNL are working to extend the series architecture toward 10 kV to meet voltage demands of future DC grids.
• By leveraging industry-standard thyristors, the design cuts component costs and makes semiconductor protection competitive with mechanical breakers.
• Semiconductor breakers offer rapid response and reduced arcing risk, which could improve safety and efficiency for AI data centers and renewable power networks.