A Voltage-Based Approach for Series High Impedance Fault Detection and Location in Distribution Systems Using Smart Meters

Francinei L Vieira,Marino P Leite,José M Carvalho Filho,Roberto C Leborgne,Pedro H M Santos

doi:10.3390/en12153022

Francinei L Vieira, Marino P Leite + Show 3 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/en12153022

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Abstract

High impedance faults (HIFs) have been a major concern for protecting distribution systems and public safety hazards when involving downed conductors. The deployment of smarter grids brings new technologies for smart monitoring, automation, and protection of distribution networks. This paper presents a new method for a series of HIF detection and location in primary distribution feeders, using voltage unbalance measurements collected from smart meters (SMs) installed at low-voltage end-users. The methodology was tested in MATLAB and Simulink through steady-state simulations of a typical 13.8 kV distribution system, under load unbalance and different fault scenarios. Results show that the proposed method is robust and accurate for the detection of blown fuses and broken conductors, with or without ground faults, located either at the source or the load-side. The ease of implementation in SM design, formulation of parameters, and reliable simulation results show potential real-life applications.

Highlights

The power sector is going through deep changes, both in structure and business models, leading to a higher competitive environment
The aim of this paper is to present an alternative method for the detection and location of series High impedance faults (HIFs) by monitoring the voltage unbalance using smart meters at the LV-side of distribution transformers, with an improved algorithm compared to our preliminary study [28]
This paper shows some advantages of using smart meters for HIF detection and location, which can support utilities in better decision making and quick remedial actions in distribution networks

Summary

Introduction

The power sector is going through deep changes, both in structure and business models, leading to a higher competitive environment. It is expected of utilities to promote bigger investments in the planning and operation of power systems, aiming for a more sustainable, reliable, and safer energy supply for customers, accompanied by a fast return of the investments. Equipment manufacturers, and researchers of the power sector are encouraged to find solutions to mitigate the number and duration of power outages. Improvements in mitigation techniques should be conceived by integrated systems, for example, based on new methods for reliable data acquisition and prompt processing. Power conductors in unwanted contact with poorly conductive surfaces and tree branches are potential causes for HIFs. a HIF does not need to include a path to the ground, for example, in broken conductors or when there are failures caused by dirty insulators [2,3]

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