Zero-sequence-based relaying technique for protecting power transformers and its performance assessment using unsupervised learning ANN

Abstract

In this paper a simple and robust new relaying technique for protecting transformers from internal winding faults is proposed. Based on the measurement of zero sequence current inside a delta winding, the technique greatly simplifies the conventional differential relaying arrangement when a delta winding is available. Despite the number of windings of the transformer and the location of the fault, only measurement of induced zero sequence current within the delta winding is needed. Since the proposed technique has been shown to be prone to generate false pick-up signals during inrush, a simple restraining criterion is proposed and analysed. Additionally, use of projection techniques based on self-organizing maps (SOM) is proposed in this paper as a valuable tool for analysing multivariable data which are generated from the huge number of possible combinations existing between switching instant and fault location. Finite element simulations and laboratory tests have been combined into SOM to validate the proposed relaying technique and the restraining criterion. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.