Operating Time Of Relays Research Articles

A new fault detection and relay coordination technique for low voltage DC microgrid

Integration of various distributed generation units in the DC distribution network creates an outsized impact on magnitude and direction of fault current. The specific behaviour of fault current during a short circuit fault demands quick and reliable detection and isolation of fault, which poses a significant challenge in developing an effective protection and coordination scheme for DC microgrids. In this regard, a new fault detection and relay coordination algorithm is proposed for a Low voltage DC (LVDC) microgrid, which utilizes inverse time relay characteristics based on variance of fault current. While the relay responds and picks up during both internal and external faults, its operation is automatically limited upon operation of the downstream circuit breaker without the need for any communication channel. The efficacy of the proposed strategy is evaluated by modelling a mesh-connected DC microgrid network using PSCAD/EMTDC software. The protection coordination problem is developed as a constraint non-linear optimization problem to determine optimal relay settings. The proposed approach has been tested by simulating various types of faults at different fault locations and fault resistances along with various microgrid operating modes. The results suggest that the proposed strategy stands out by optimizing relay operating time and providing backup protection while upholding relay coordination. A comparative assessment of the proposed technique with existing ones proves its effectiveness in terms of swift relay tripping time, better immunity against noise, and independency against microgrid operating mode and topology.

Optimal adaptive coordination of overcurrent relays in power systems protection using a new hybrid metaheuristic algorithm

AbstractAdvent of distributed generation and progression towards an intelligent grid infrastructure within the domain of contemporary electrical power systems have created dynamic load profiles. Accompanying these developments, protective relays are faced with an evolving electrical load landscape and variable fault current conditions, resulting in disparate operational timings throughout the diurnal cycle. In light of these challenges, this paper delineates the formulation and simulation of a novel adaptive protection strategy for overcurrent relays, meticulously tailored to accommodate the fluctuations in electrical load. To construct a robust framework for this adaptive mechanism, a series of hypothetical fault current scenarios are meticulously crafted to activate the relays within the briefest time interval feasible. Further innovating within this sphere, this paper introduces a new hybrid algorithm, deftly amalgamating the strengths of three preeminent metaheuristic models: Improved Harmony Search, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Differential Evolution. Simulations and analyses substantiate the efficacy of the algorithm in optimizing the coordination among overcurrent relays aiming to uphold the overarching protective imperatives of the grid. For the IEEE 6‐bus system, the mean value of the objective function during 24 h in Monte Carlo is 292.6607 and very close to 272.0758 in the simulation of eight stochastic scenarios, which contributes to the validity of the approach in practical settings. Also, in the IEEE 30‐bus system, the results of the mean relay operation time set for the hours with the lowest and highest consumption load are 17.1297 and 14.8049 s, which reveals the increase in the operation speed of the relays.

Optimal coordination of overcurrent relays in microgrids using meta-heuristic algorithms NSGA-II and harmony search

The emergence of distributed generation from renewable energy sources has led to the adoption microgrids as an alternative energy solution. However, implementing microgrids presents challenges, particularly in coordinating relay protection, due to factors like distributed generation sources, bidirectional power flow, variable short-circuit levels, and changes in network behavior. Although overcurrent relays (OCR) are frequently utilized in microgrid protection, a more adaptable strategy is needed as grid architectures transition from radial to non-radial. This paper proposes a new method to optimize the coordination of OCRs in microgrids by adjusting parameters like time multiplier settings (TMS), plug settings (PS), and characteristic curve selection. The study utilizes meta-heuristic techniques such as the harmony search algorithm (HSA) and the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSAGA-II) for optimal coordination. Simulations on a microgrid and bus test system demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in enhancing protection indicators like sensitivity, speed, selectivity, and reliability in microgrid operations. The results also indicate that the computation time of HSA is less than NSGA-II, but with an increase in DGs capacity, there is a continuous tendency to reduce the relay operation time.

Effect of Load Variation and Fault Resistance on the Operation Time of IDMT Overcurrent Relay

Fault can occur in power system due to many factors such as lightning, tree or crane encroachment, animal intervention, human error etc. Each fault occurrence has its own fault resistance value, and this value is unknown to the protection relay used to the protect the circuit. Besides that, the connected load in power system is dynamic where the value is changing over time. It is very important for the protection relay to be as reliable as it can so that the fault can be isolated as soon as possible when a fault occur. This paper study the effect of fault resistance value and load variation on IDMT overcurrent relay operation time. This relay is used to protect the line from fault occurrence where the higher the fault current, the faster the operation time will be. MATLAB Simulink has been used to model the transmission line, source, connected load and IDMT overcurrent relay. Faults simulations were conducted for various fault resistance and load values and the effects on relay operation time have been analysed. From the results, it was found that, the higher the fault resistance, the higher the operation time while the higher the value of connected load at the end of the line, the faster the relay operation time.

Optimal coordination of directional over current relays for distribution systems using hybrid GWO-CSA

Coordination of protective relays is a critical aspect of electrical distribution systems, ensuring effective and reliable protection against faults. In modern power systems, the integration of distributed generation (DG) sources adds complexity to the coordination task. The dynamic nature of DG systems requires adaptive relay settings that can swiftly detect and isolate faults while minimizing potential damage and downtime. The purpose of this research is to improve the coordination of directional over current relays in electrical distribution systems, particularly in DG systems. An optimization technique combining the grey wolf optimization (GWO) and cuckoo search algorithm (CSA) is developed to identify the best relay settings that reduce overall operation time while ensuring excellent fault identification and isolation. To address relay faults caused by DG integration, a suitable primary and backup relay design is chosen, and the influence of time multiplier settings (TMS) on system performance and reliability is investigated. The proposed GWO-CSA technique is evaluated and implemented on IEEE 3, 8 and 15-bus systems using MATLAB. Simulation results show that the GWO-CSA strategy outperforms well compared to previous algorithms, enabling optimal coordination and increased protection in DG systems while drastically lowering relay operating time.

ANALISA SETTING PROTEKSI OVER CURRENT RELAY (OCR) PADA GENERATOR 30 MW UNIT PLTA POSO PT. POSO ENERGY

To ensure that the performance of the protection system is still good or not in terms of protection, calculations and adjustments must be made to the safety relay settings, especially the over current relay. In the research, analysis of the over current relay protection settings on the 30 MW generator at the Poso 1 PT PLTA unit. Poso Energy obtained that the maximum load current data on the generator was 2042 A, while the calculation results obtained were 2041.7 A. For the relay (top) operating time in the specification data, the value was 1.4 s, while in the calculation results it was 1.3 s. And for the setting current (Is) in the specification data the value is 4.7 A, whereas in the calculation results it is 4.28 A. Over current relay (OCR) or over current relay is an auxiliary relay from the differential relay, the over current relay is used to secure the generator of the overcurrent in the Poso 1 PLTA is PCS-985GE-EN-H2-110V-5A. In the specification data, the TMS value is 0.15 s, while in the calculation results it is 0.14 s. This means that data in the field is slower to protect components from interference by 0.01 s. However, overall the overcurrent relay settings on the generator at the Poso 1 PLTA are still in good condition.

Optimizing DOCRs coordination when synergizing energy management with V2G using innovative optimization algorithms

This manuscript proposes an optimal coordination approach for directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) within electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS), considering energy management and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) integration. The study focuses on maximizing efficiency and grid interaction in charging stations by addressing the challenge of DOCRs coordination. Three innovative optimization algorithms, namely the Hunger Games Search (HGS), Hunter Prey Optimization (HPO), and Sparrow Search algorithm (SSA), are employed to determine the optimal coordination for the DOCRs and get the time dial setting (TDS) and pickup current (IP) targeting minimum operating time for all DOCRs, considering factors such as load balancing, fault detection, and power quality in three different scenarios. EVSC has two types of charges DC and AC with two modes: V2G mode when EV is discharged into the grid, and G2V mode when EV is charged from the grid. Fast chargers are used to proceed as it can work in two modes V2G and G2V. Through extensive simulations and performance evaluations, the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The three scenarios are simulated by using ETAP and MATLAB software according to fault location and to achieve voltage regulation and sufficient power for loads to achieved continuity of service for up to 1960.7 kW loads that kept fed. The proposed approach achieved the target of protecting the EVCS in minimum operating time of relays using the three algorithms and SSA introduces the best result more than other algorithms for the relay operating time with reduction up to 21 %.

Design of adaptive protection coordination scheme using SVM for an AC microgrid

Microgrids have gathered a significant amount of attention within the past decade and becoming an essential asset in the energy industry. The ability to integrate sustainable renewable energy generation into the distribution network is one of the main reasons for microgrids' popularity. Besides technical advantages, renewable energy sources integration with the grid poses many technical challenges. Due to randomness in generation and different modes of operation, integrating renewable energy sources into power systems will be challenging. Reliable operation of renewable energy sources integrated microgrids even when faults occur, requires an adaptive protection scheme and relay coordination. In order to tackle those issues, this paper developed an adaptive protection coordination scheme using numerical overcurrent relays and support vector machines with a particle swarm optimization approach. Renewable energy sources based on microgrids use power electronics systems that require relays to operate in milliseconds, and the power system will be safe. particle swarm optimization's program execution time exceeds the primary relays. The machine learning algorithm is faster in computation time. This article proposes a method, particle swarm optimization, to estimate the optimum relay operating time. The machine learning model having a support vector machine is proposed to estimate the relay operating time. The proposed research is developed and tested on an IEEE12BUS and IEEE35BUS system. The support vector machine -based on adaptive protection coordination schemes estimates the operating time of directional overcurrent relays, with a lesser program execution time and a low percentage error rate. The derived result defined that the proposed approach is well-suitable for real-time applications of an AC microgrid system.

Optimal Coordination Of Multiple Setting Group Type Overcurrent Relays

Relay coordination optimization issues are multi-objective, multi-constrained problems that aim to reduce each relay's operation time while satisfying all relevant constraints. Fulfillment of the coordination time interval (CTI) and time limitations for relay operations are the coordination constraints. To solve coordination optimization issues, decision-making variables are defined such that the objective function is minimized with due satisfaction of necessary constraints. The majority of the most recent research that is currently available defines relay coordination for fixed network topologies, but in practice, it varies for a variety of reasons, including maintenance and element failures. Over current relays now have the capability of storing multiple relay settings but the number of relay settings that can be stored in relays is far less than the possible number of network configurations, which is why a suitable clustering technique such as K-Means can be used to cluster out various network topologies using a proper clustering index. Because both the objective function and the constraints are time dependent, time dependent attributes such as average relay operating time are used as the clustering index instead of the conventional index fault current deviation.

Optimal overcurrent relay coordination: Balancing costs, time performance and generator placement in fault current limiter optimization

AbstractThe integration of synchronous generators (SG) to the grid will present serious problems in some instances. The increase in fault current level is one of the most crucial issues, which causes miscoordination between directional over current relays (DOCRs), in addition to putting excessive pressure on the circuit breakers. This research uses the Fault Current Limiters (FCL) to restore coordination, without changing the settings of DOCRs, by reducing the level of fault current in the grid. The main goal of this research is to find the optimal size, location, and number of FCLs at the minimum cost and with the least operation time for the relays, using Jellyfish Search Optimisation (JSO) algorithm. This can be achieved through three different approaches. The first one is optimizing the location, number, and impedance size of the FCL by minimising a cost function. The second approach involves optimizing the backup relay operation time. A combination of the two previous approaches is used as the third approach. The outstanding feature of this research is that it considers the optimal location of DG and FCL while optimizing the operation times of DOCRs, which is a new framework.

An adaptive protection coordination for microgrids utilizing an improved optimization technique for user-defined DOCRs characteristics with different groups of settings considering N-1 contingency

Due to the increased integration of distributed generation (DG) in electric power systems, optimal coordination of overcurrent relays has become a key problem in power distribution systems. However, there is a lack of expertise in the creation of optimum microgrid coordination that takes into account all N-1 scenarios through the nonstandard relay characteristics. This work presents a novel technique for optimal coordination of directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) in terms of relay curve settings (A and B), time dial setting (TDS) and plug setting (PS) to achieve the shortest running time and attain optimal settings. The optimization is carried out using a modified version of the Hanger Games Search algorithm (MHGS). The performance of the proposed method is assessed using the 14 bus distribution system while considering all the N-1 contingencies. DIgSILENT software was utilized to perform the required power system analysis, such as power flow and short circuit analysis. The MHGS method is used to determine the best settings for the DOCRs problem. The results are compared to the traditional HGS as well as those obtained by other current optimization approaches provided in the literature in order to demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed MHGS in lowering relay operation time for optimum DOCRs coordination.

Particle Swarm Optimization for Directional Overcurrent Relay Coordination with Distributed Generation

The Directional Overcurrent Relays (DOCRs) Coordination with Distributed Generation (DG) optimization problem is addressed in this study using the optimization method Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). Changes in fault current, bus voltages, power flow, and reliability may result from DG integration. Thus, it might have an impact on the current protection coordination system. The formulation is built on a Mixed Integer Non-Linear Programming (MINLP) problem to address this DOCR issue. MATLAB was used to validate the technique on the IEEE-14 bus system, and Electrical Test Transient Analyzer Programming (ETAP) version 2021 software was used to model the test system. According to the simulation results, the suggested PSO with DG for Case 2 has reduced power loss by 6.24% and relay operating time by 46.79% when compared to PSO without the presence of DG.

Multi-Objective Optimal Allocation of Hybrid Photovoltaic Distributed Generators and Distribution Static Var Compensators in Radial Distribution Systems Using Various Optimization Algorithms

In recent years, considerable growth was about the integration of renewable energy sources in the Radial Distribution Systems (RDS), as Photovoltaic Distributed Generators (PVDG) due to their importance in achieving plenty desired technical and economic benefits. Implementation of the Distribution Static Var Compensator (DSVC) in addition to the PVDG would be one of the best choices that may provide the maximum of those benefits. Hence, it is crucial to determine the optimal allocation of the devices (PVDG and DSVC) into RDS to get satisfactory results and solutions. This paper is devoted to solve the allocation problem (locate and size) of hybrid PVDG and DSVC units into the standards test systems IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus RDSs. Solving the formulated problem of the optimal integration of hybrid PVDG and DSVC units is based on minimizing the proposed Multi-Objective Function (MOF) which is represented as the sum of the technical-economic parameters of Total Active Power Loss (TAPL), Total Reactive Power Loss (TRPL), Total Voltage Deviation (TVD), Total Operation Time (TOT) of the overcurrent relays (OCRs) installed in the RDS, the Investment Cost of PVDGs (ICPVDG) and the Investment Cost of DSVCs (ICDSVC), by applying various recent metaheuristic optimization algorithms. The simulation results reveal the superiority and the effectiveness of the Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA) in providing the minimum of MOF, including minimization of the power losses until 16.209 kW, and 12.11 kVar for the first RDS, 4.756 kW and 7.003 kVar for the second RDS, enhancing the voltage profiles and the overcurrent protection system. Moreover, the ability to reach the optimal allocation of PVDG and DSVC and maintain the voltage profiles in the allowable limit, whatever the load demand variation.

Optimal single settings based relay coordination in DC microgrids for line faults

A novel time–current-rate-based inverse characteristic curve for relays in a DC microgrid is proposed in this paper. Line current rise rate is used as actuating quantity, ensuring quick line fault clearing (relay operating time is in order of a few μs). The advantage of using line current rise rate as actuating quantity is that for a line short-circuit fault, it does not vary significantly for grid-connected and islanded modes of operation and varying network topologies of DC microgrid. Consequently, using the proposed characteristic, a single set of optimal relay settings is obtained using an optimization solver in MATLAB. The obtained settings ensure reliable and selective coordination between primary and backup relays for various pole-to-ground and pole-to-pole line faults under different operating conditions with multiple sources in two different 4-bus 400V low voltage DC microgrids. The maximum relay operating time for a high resistance fault with the proposed curve is 394.9μs for the first considered low voltage DC microgrid. Simulations in the Real Time Digital Simulator and comparisons with previous schemes (one comparison on the second considered DC microgrid), conventional standard inverse, and extremely inverse curves for DC microgrid protection indicate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.

RELAY COORDINATION PLANNING FOR HIGH PHOTOVOLTAIC PENETRATION USING PRESET-TIME METHOD

In light of the advancement and technological development, electricity has become the main component of all areas of life. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used within distribution networks. Despite all the advantages that PV possesses, it has some effects on the protection system. One of the most essential effects caused by PV is an increase in the relay operating time (ROT) of the backup protection relay during faults. Many studies have focused on improving the coordination of protection relays at high PV penetration, either by using current limiters or modifying the characteristics of the protection curves. However, they require a high cost and advanced relay. Therefore, the Preset-Time method is introduced in this study to shorten the ROT of the backup protection relay within the radial distribution networks which contributes to accelerating the removal of faults. The proposed method is tested on the Iraqi distribution network and is simulated using ETAP 19 software. The performance of the Preset-Time method is evaluated during the change in penetration levels. To validate the preset time method, its results are compared to the conventional method and the Max PSM method. From the results obtained by the Preset-Time method, the highest percentage of reduction in ROT was 33.20% and 29.23% compared to the conventional and the Max PSM methods, respectively.

Communication-less adaptive directional overcurrent protection strategy considering islanded mode detection in active distribution networks

The integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in electric distribution networks originates the Active Distribution Networks (ADNs). The presence of DERs introduces challenges to conventional protection schemes due to bidirectional power flows and variations in fault current magnitudes; furthermore, the connection and disconnection of DERs result in multiple ADN operating modes (OMs), deteriorating the effective operation of protective relays. Considering the above, this document presents an adaptive protection strategy to address the challenges related to the variable nature of the ADN operation. The main contribution of the proposed approach is accurate islanded mode detection without requiring communication links, enabling fault detection in all ADN operating modes. The protection strategy maintains directional overcurrent relays' coordination using local voltage and current measurements to continuously estimate the Thevenin equivalent, fault currents, and adaptive coefficients.Relay coordination is maintained through tests conducted on a modified IEEE 34-bus feeder, considering several OMs, fault types, and locations. A comparison between the proposed adaptive protection strategy and a conventional overcurrent scheme shows that relay operating time is better in 100% of the analysed cases for the former strategy. On the other hand, the maximum errors in the fault current estimation using the Thevenin equivalent parameters are between 0.05% to 2.6% for all of the analysed operating modes when compared with the true fault current magnitudes. Finally, the adequate results validate the potential of the proposed communication-less protection strategy for modern protective relaying applications.

Optimal coordination of directional overcurrent relays in complex networks using the Elite marine predators algorithm

The integration of renewable energy sources in the distribution network (DN) has had a significant influence by reducing power loss and enhancing network dependability. Aside from that, the protection system has met coordination issues as a result of bidirectional power flow and variations in fault levels. Therefore, an optimal coordination strategy is required to deal with relays coordination problem. The coordination problem of the directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) is a restricted optimization issue that involves determining appropriate time dial settings (TDS) and plug setting (PS) to reduce relays operating time. Currently, a various nontraditional optimization strategies have been presented to overcome this challenge. In this paper, a modified version of the marine predators algorithm (MPA) referred to as Elite marine predator (EMPA) is developed for the optimal coordination of DOCRs. Therefore, the EMPA method is used to find out the optimal settings for the DOCRs problem. The suggested algorithm's performance is evaluated using standard test systems, including 3-bus, 8-bus, 9-bus, and 15-bus. The findings are compared with the traditional MPA and with other recent optimization methods presented in the literature to prove the efficiency and superiority of the proposed EMPA in reducing relay operation time for optimal DOCRs coordination.

Adaptive Directional Overcurrent Relay Coordination in Microgrid Considering Optimal Full Setting Parameters

This article proposes a novel approach for the optimal coordination of adaptive directional overcurrent relay (ADOCR) for modernized active distribution system (ADS) with microgrid (MG) functions. The goal is to keep the coordinating circumstances while reducing the protective relay operation time, as much as possible. With the proposed round-off mixed-integer particle swarm optimization (ROMI-PSO), the setting parameters are not limited to only relay time multiplier setting (TMS) and pickup current setting (PS) but can include the discrete parameter as relay characteristic curve setting (CS). In the proposed framework, The CS can be both IEC and IEEE standard curves in the proposed framework. Four buses radial system and IEC-benchmark MG system were used in a number of simulation experiments. Comparing the suggested methodology to other current methods revealed that it is more effective at determining the minimum relay operating times and ensuring the proper operation of protections under various fault allocations and operating circumstances.

Artificial intelligence based optimal coordination of directional overcurrent relay in distribution systems considering vehicle to grid technology

Optimal coordination of overcurrent relays has become a major challenge in power distribution systems due to the increasing participation of distributed generation (DG) and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, especially vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. This paper proposes a novel approach for optimal coordination of directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) to achieve the minimum operating time and obtain optimal tuning in terms of time dial setting (TDS) and pick-up current (IP) considering V2G integration. The optimization was conducted using three different Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques: grey wolf optimization (GWO), cuckoo search (CS), and Hunger Games Search (HGS), and was performed on two systems: IEEE 33-bus system and a local grid located in El-Shorouk City–district#8 (ShC-D8), Cairo, Egypt. The proposed methodology is constructed and validated on ETAP and MATLAB software packages. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed optimization techniques provide high dynamic performance and accurate coordination of DOCRs. The results show that HGS achieves the minimum operating time of all overcurrent relays as compared with GWO and CS. The effect of V2G integration on the coordination methodology is also considered. The proposed approach provides a significant contribution to the field of power system protection and can help improve the reliability and efficiency of power distribution systems with V2G integration.

The Protection Relay Coordination Studies (Over Current Relays and Ground Fault Relays) On The Power Plant Electrical System, PT. Rekind Daya Mamuju By Using The ETAP 12.6 Program

Abstract-, This research is an ex-post facto descriptive study, which aims to determine: a) the results of the safety relay coordination settings (OCR and GFR) and b) the working sequence and operating time of the safety relay when a disturbance occurs in the electrical system of PT. Rekind Daya Mamuju. Electrical system data obtained in the form of Single Line Diagram of PLTU Mamuju 2x25 MW, protection equipment data, and safety relay coordination data which are then processed and analyzed using the ETAP 12.6 program. The results showed that on the OCR inverse time curve the secondary side of the 0.4 kV transformer is set with a pickup current of 0.45 s, the primary side relay of the transformer is 6.3 kV 0.25 s and the relay is connected between unit I and unit II. 0.84 s. The GFR setting value for the definite time curve for the secondary side of the pickup current is 0.4 s, and the relay on the primary side is 0.2 s. The working time interval of the relay to break the disturbance is 0.3 s. Coordination of safety relays for PLTU Mamuju unit I and Unit II has worked well, with no overlapping or miss-coordination curve plot values. The sequence of work and the time of operation of the relay when a disturbance occurs is in the order of the simulation results with the coordinated setting values.
 
 Keywords : Coordination; OCR; GFR; ETAP 12.6 Program