Empirical Research of Single Phase-to-Earth Faults in Distribution Network with Different Neutral Point Grounding Modes

Abstract

For a long time, there has been no consensus on what grounding method should be used for the neutral point of the distribution network. Especially when a single phase-to-earth fault occurs in the distribution network, there is a great controversy over whether to use the neutral point to ground through the arc suppression coil or to use the neutral point to ground through a low resistance, which not only involves the reliability of power supply, but also involves personal safety issues. However, most of the fault handling devices can only obtain fault characteristic data through simulation or some line fault waveforms. And there is a lack of comparative research on single phase-to -earth fault characteristics under different neutral point grounding methods in real line conditions. In order to better analyze the characteristics of different neutral point grounding methods, a 10kV real distribution network empirical test network with switchable neutral point grounding methods was built, and the true-type test of single phase-to-earth cable arcing fault with 3 kinds of neutral grounding methods is carried out under almost the same environmental conditions and line conditions. Finally, recommendations based on true-type empirical test results are given.