Cooperative Use of IMD and GPT in a 3-Phase Ungrounded Distribution System Linked to a Transformerless Photovoltaic Power Generation Facility

Abstract

Distributed generations, using solar photovoltaic (PV) generation systems, are generally connected to ungrounded distribution systems to ensure operational continuity and avoid electro-chemical corrosions. The ungrounded power distribution system possesses an advantage of continuous operation regardless of primary fault occurrence due to a small fault current. Conversely, a subsequent secondary fault can induce a large fault current representing that of other electrical grounding types, resulting in inevitable power shutdowns. As preventative methods, both insulation status monitoring and primary failure detection have become of high importance. This paper presents a method enabling the cooperative use of IMD (Insulation Monitoring Device) and GPT (Ground Potential Transformer) in an ungrounded distribution system connected with a transformerless inverter. Moreover, factors leading to errors during IMD insulation monitoring, CLR (Current Limit Resistor) burnout of a GPT, and malfunctions of related protection devices are presented. Furthermore, a method for selecting the inductor and capacitor in consideration of the operating characteristics of IMD and GPT is discussed. The proposed cooperative operation method enables the accurate measurement of insulation resistance using IMD, while concurrently reducing the constitutively induced zero-sequence voltage in the CLR of a GPT to prevent CLR burnouts and malfunctions of connected protection devices. Hence, the method is anticipated to contribute to the stable operation of alternating current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) combined systems connected with transformerless inverters.