Three-phase power flow using binary tree search algorithm for unbalanced distribution networks

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to examine a binary tree (BT) three-phase (3Φ) power flow analysis method for unbalanced distribution networks. A simple and efficient 3Φ power flow solution method for unbalanced radial distribution networks was proposed. This method is based on the BT search structure. Large-scale distribution network problems can be evaluated using current-injection techniques and two-port network models. The power flow solution process was simplified into a set of 3 × 3 matrix operations using the BT-based method. The solution complexity remained unchanged, regardless of the size of the power system. In other words, the performance and robustness of the proposed algorithm were maintained at relatively high values with increasing system size. Furthermore, programming complexity was reduced by standardising the solution process. The effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed model and algorithm were validated using four IEEE standard benchmark feeders and a series of random cases.