MARINE DC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS - TAKING ADVANTAGE OF ENABLING TECHNOLOGIES

Recent advances in enabling technologies such as power electronics, electric hybrid systems, energy storage systems, energy management systems, variable frequency drives, and DC bus duct systems have allowed electrical system designers an opportunity to develop new electrical system designs with distributed DC systems that can be optimized in terms of fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, enhanced system protection, superior power quality, and advanced automation. Distributed DC systems take advantage of a number of advanced technologies to allow for weight/space savings, reduced vessel operating costs, and enhanced protection and automation systems. System designers can take advantage of the best of both AC and DC system technologies by using commercially proven off the shelf AC electrical equipment connected via advanced power electronic converters to a distributed DC distribution system. This paper will explore the rationale for DC systems, identify ideal applications for DC systems, present several examples of distributed DC systems designs, and will provide an update on ongoing standards development efforts for DC distribution systems.