Application of Search Algorithms in Determining of Fault Location on Overhead Power Lines According to the Emergency Mode Parameters

Abstract

Identification of fault locations (FL) on overhead power lines (OHPL) in the shortest possible time allows to reduce the time for shutting down OHPL in case of damage. This helps to improve the reliability of power systems. FL devices on OHPL according to the emergency mode parameters (EMP) are widely used, as they have a lower cost. However, they have a larger error than FL devices that record traveling wave processes. Most of the well-known algorithms for FL on OHPL by EMP assume a uniform distribution of resistivity along the OHPL. In real conditions, this is not the case. Application of these algorithms in FL devices on OHPL with inhomogeneities leads to significant errors in calculating the distance to the fault location. The authors proposed the use of search algorithms for u-nconstrained one-dimensional optimization to increase the speed of implementation of iterative procedures in FL devices on OHPL by EMP. The authors have developed recommendations for choosing optimization criteria, as well as options for implementing computational procedures. Using the example of a two-sided FL on OHPL, it is shown that the use of search algorithms can significantly (from tens to hundreds of times) reduce the number of steps of the computational iterative procedure. The implementation of search algorithms is possible in the software of typical relay protection and automation terminals, without their hardware upgrade.