Relay Settings Research Articles

Stability-Constrained Settings of Directional Overcurrent Relays With Shifted User-Defined Characteristics for Distribution Networks With DERs

Stability-Constrained Settings of Directional Overcurrent Relays With Shifted User-Defined Characteristics for Distribution Networks With DERs

Review on Coordination of Time Overcurrent Relays in Electrical Distribution Network

Integration of distributed generators in micro grid causes bidirectional current flow as a result of the need for readjustment of the setting of the overcurrent protective relays in the electrical network. Adaptive coordination is one of the solutions that adjust the setting of protective relays according to the dynamics of the distribution network. Various algorithms had been reported on the adaptive coordination of time overcurrent relays. This paper reports a survey about the coordination of time overcurrent relays in micro grid electrical distribution network. The review found that there is limited research on distributed control rules of the multi agent coordination of protection relays. Furthermore, it was found that the trend of coordination algorithms focused on the nature inspired algorithms.

A Setting Optimization Ensemble for a Distributed Power Grid Protective Relay

To ensure a stable and reliable power supply, the valid and timely response of protective relays are indispensable. Through the prevention of fault expansions, potential equipment damage or system collapse can be averted, where their setting is one vital prerequisite for such effective implementations. However, the increasing complexity of distribution power systems results in more challenges for protection tuning strategies. Ergo, this paper presents an ensemble that combines the independent factor evaluation (IFE) and quantum genetic optimization (QGO) models to further optimize the performance of relays according to their distributed tuning environment. In this ensemble, both near and far-end fault characteristics can be incorporated. In the first stage, the IFE dimensional reduction model is deployed for massive heterogeneous input data, where the statistical independence of input signals is calculated, the linear transformation matrix to decouple mixed signals is found, the linear combination of such signals is formed, and the non-Gaussian property to sort them is established. This can ameliorate the following calculation efficiency under those high-dimensional data scenarios. Subsequently, the QGO model is designed to further improve relay settings, where qubit representation is built to reduce required chromosomes, the linear superposition of the optimal solution probability in different states is implemented for a better diversity and convergence performance, and a self-adaption quantum gate is established to dynamically update the qubit chromosome groups and two-state solution combinations. Lastly, an empirical case study is presented, which validates the enhanced convergence, accuracy, and rapidity of the proposed ensemble.

Power Compatibility of Induction Motors in Industrial Grids Containing Synchronous Generators

Starting an induction motor causes voltage sag in the industrial grid that may disturb the operation of grid equipment. Direct-on-line starting is the simplest and most cost-effective method for starting induction motors, but also the most problematic. Large industries often use internal power plants with synchronous generators and starting powerful motors may impact the generator operations. The synchronous generators could be operated with the automatic or manual mode of voltage control. As the operation experience proves, the generator voltage control mode has a significant impact on the transient behaviours in the industrial power grid when starting a large induction motor. This article presents a case study of the synchronous generator tripping within a true medium-voltage industrial grid during the direct-on-line starting of a large induction motor driving the feed water pump. An analysis of the generator protection logs after the tripping showed that the synchronous generator was controlled in manual mode and its protection relay settings were exceeded. The transients initiated by induction motor starts were studied for possible configurations and operating conditions of the grid using a model developed on the Matlab/Simulink Software platform. The simulations have shown that concern about starting large motors in industrial grids containing internal synchronous generators needs to be solved considering the grid configurations and the coordination of generator protection and control devices.

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.

Research and application of relay protection setting calculation for SFC system of pumped storage power station

Pumped storage is a key way to meet the regulatory needs of the power system. Currently, SFC starting has become the main starting method for large pumped storage power plants. This article introduces the typical structure and operation principle of SFC in pumped storage power plants. Based on existing guidelines, the relay protection configuration and setting principles of the SFC system in pumped storage power plants are elaborated. Starting from engineering practice, a relay protection setting calculation scheme for SFC input and output transformers is proposed and put into operation on site, ensuring the reliable and stable operation of the SFC system in pumped storage power plants.

Innovative probabilistic approach to reduce zone-2 time delay setting of distance relays

The time delay of distance relay zone-2 has considerable impacts on the protection system performance. Traditional deterministic techniques for adjustment of this parameter only consider the worst cases, even with a low probability of occurrence. This leads to the increment of the fault clearing time for most of the high-probability scenarios and endangers the system's stability. To diminish this issue and achieve a suitable tradeoff between protection system selectivity and operation time, a novel probabilistic framework is proposed in this paper for proper adjustment of zone-2 time delay. This framework includes two major parts; the fault and protection system are appropriately modeled in the first part, and then in the second part, the Monte Carlo method is employed as the computational engine for analyzing the system attributes under different conditions considering local and pilot protection schemes. Finally, two indices are proposed for the quantitative assessment of operation speed and selectivity of the protection system. The simulation studies fairly reveal that the operation speed of zone-2 is significantly improved using the proposed settings. In addition, the obtained results indicate that the proposed probabilistic approach not only improves the dependability, but also does not endanger the security of the protection system.

Machine-Learning-Based Adaptive Settings of Directional Overcurrent Relays With Double-Inverse Characteristics for Stable Operation of Microgrids

Machine-Learning-Based Adaptive Settings of Directional Overcurrent Relays With Double-Inverse Characteristics for Stable Operation of Microgrids

Review: Relay coordination in DGs with Electric Vehicle

This research offers a comprehensive examination of the most effective approach to synchronize overcurrent relays within a protective system alongside protective relay. Every effort has been made to encompass all potential strategies for achieving optimal coordination among overcurrent relays. Both modern approaches, like Harris hawk optimisation, and more traditional ones, such ground-based circuit breakers, are included in this category of overcurrent protection with Electric Vehicle. The operation of a Smart Grid [1] is characterized by varying load demands, generation levels from DGs, and charging/discharging behaviours of EVs. These factors can lead to different fault currents and altered fault impedance profiles at various times. An adaptive coordination scheme can dynamically adjust relay settings based on these changing conditions to optimize sensitivity and minimize coordination time. In this paper briefly discuss traditional approaches but focus mostly on using Harris Hawk Optimisation to enhance the coordination of overcurrent relays. This document compiles citations for all relevant works and offers a concise overview of the study conducted. Furthermore, the outcomes of these methods are documented in their corresponding references.

Towards Sustainable Smart Living: Cloud-Based IoT Solutions for Home Automation

In recent times, the realm of home automation systems has garnered significant attention, thanks to the ever-evolving landscape of communication technology. The concept of a smart home, essentially an application of the Internet of Things (IoT), leverages the power of the internet to oversee and employ household appliances through a sophisticated automation infrastructure. Nevertheless, challenges persist within the existing home automation systems, such as constrained wireless transmission reach, a deficiency in backup power management, and the substantial financial outlay involved. Addressing these limitations, our study introduces an economical and resilient solution that combines cloud based IoT with an uninterrupted power management system, making a cutting-edge home automation prototype. This system relies on a microcontroller unit, specifically the ESP-32, which functions as a Wi-Fi-enabled gateway for connecting a variety of sensors and transmitting their data to the Blynk IoT cloud server. The data assembled from a multitude of sensors, including vibration sensors and voltage detectors, becomes readily accessible on users' devices, be it smartphones or laptops, irrespective of their geographical location. The system is further strengthened by a set of relays that link the ESP-32 with household appliances, allowing for centralized control. Structurally, the design uses a control box that can be seamlessly integrated into a real home environment, offering the means to both monitor and govern an array of household devices. This IoT-based home automation solution not only efficiently manages internet-connected appliances but also provides an effective emergency power management system, enabling remote initiation and deactivation of backup generators. It represents a innovative leap in the evolution of home automation systems, steering in convenience, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Optimal data-driven adaptive overcurrent relay coordination for active distribution networks

Massive integration of distributed generation originates the active distribution networks, introducing new control, protection and operation challenges. This paper proposes a strategy for adaptively protecting active distribution networks that undergo frequent changes in operating conditions. Numerical overcurrent relays capable of storing multiple setting groups, each with different settings designed to address various operating conditions, are used to overcome this issue. The proposed strategy uses locally acquired voltage and current measurements to accurately identify the operating conditions during fault occurrence. The identified condition is then used to select the appropriate overcurrent relay settings using a strategy which includes signal characterisation, data recognition, and optimisation to minimise the operating time for both primary and backup relays. Validation of the protection strategy is conducted on the IEEE 34-Bus test system, and the results indicate its ability to accurately detect different operating conditions in both connected and islanded operating modes, even in the presence of high-impedance faults and load variation. The performance rate exceeds 97.27% for all analysed cases, and the proposal identifies the operating condition in less than 20 ms after fault inception, demonstrating its low computational burden and suitability for implementation in field applications.

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.

Implementation and impact of graph theory algorithm in Z-source breaker for the protection of DC microgrid

Integrating renewable energy resources is the solution for the power demand crisis in the power energy market, reducing carbon emissions and energy loss. Autonomous acting grids, like DC microgrids, can provide power to rural areas, which neglects grid congestion. However, a proper protection scheme still needs to be determined, as the bidirectional power flow in microgrids exists. Initially, the status of the buses in the network needs to be monitored and addressed continuously so inactive buses are identified and faulted lines are noted easily. Also, the occurrence of a fault may provide a great cause to the nearest renewable generation. So, the distance from a faulted point to the closest operating source are determined to avoid protection blinding. In this study, the active buses are identified using the Kruskal algorithm, the shortest distance from a faulted point to the nearest renewable generation for fault detection is demonstrated, and the run time is compared using Bellman Ford and Dijkstra’s algorithm. The traditional protection scheme can only do fixed relay settings, but the adaptive network works on different relay settings. The proposed system detects the fault and works based on voltage and current data at line ends. Also, the adaptive algorithm is analyzed using a bidirectional Z source breaker when implemented in nine bus DC microgrid system. Result analysis is carried out in MATLAB Simulink interfaced Python scripts for various faults, and the results prove the system’s efficiency, adaptability, and robustness.

Adaptive overcurrent protection scheme coordination in presence of distributed generation using radial basis neural network

The operational performance of conventional overcurrent protection relay coordination connected to a distribution network is adversely affected by the penetration of distributed generators (DG) at different buses in the network. To address this problem, this paper proposes a novel adaptive protection coordination scheme using a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), which automatically adjusts the overcurrent relay settings, i.e., time setting multiplier (TSM) and plug setting multiplier (PSM) based on the penetration of DGs. Short circuit currents and voltages measured at different buses are acquired using the remote terminal units (RTU) connected to different buses within the terminal network. Communication between the various remotes and local end station RTUs is through hybrid communication systems of fiber optic and power line communication system modules. The new adaptive overcurrent protection scheme is applied to the IEEE 33-bus distribution network with and without DGs, for single and multi-DG penetration using both the ETAP and MATLAB software. The simulation results show the proposed scheme significantly improves the protection coordination.

Protection Relay Setting based on Overcurrent Phenomena in Commercial Building

Nowadays, every single distribution system needs to install an appropriate relay to keep the system safe. The operational and commonly recommended relay for distribution systems is the overcurrent (OC) relay. Throughout the distribution system, the protective relay is one of the methods that can detect and protect the location according to its observation from any fault from abnormal activity. Note that time coordination between the protective equipment relay needs to be a minimum of time interruption to prevent faults occurs. The ideal setting for all coordination protection relays is necessary to protect the device against electrical failure and interference. This paper analyzes the real results data collected for the selected commercial building of an OC relay implemented in a distribution board for high voltage and low voltage downward at a commercial building. All the parameters need to be clarified first before testing has been made and measurement is carried out using the MICROTEST 860 set. Based on the analysis, it proves that according to the IEC Standard of 0.10-time multiplier Setting (TMS) is practical to be used to obtain the operation time in seconds for the current curve set. Other than that, the results show that the normal inverse curve from manual calculation results is more accurate compared to the service setting (SS) made based on the incoming setting in a real commercial building. The case study for OC relay setting is related between current injection and time-tripping, which complies with the IEC 60255-3 standard using its formula. This method was applied to determine the characteristics of the curve. Hence, this research successfully determined the proper methods for the OC relay setting for the power distribution system. Besides, the feasibility and efficiency of OC relay data transmission are tested and checked successfully to implement the measurement method in the relay coordination study.

Enhanced Combined Protection Scheme Using Dual Setting Directional Overcurrent and Distance Relays Considering Severe Line Contingencies

An electrical power system must have an optimal protection system for enhanced reliability. Numerous studies have attempted to address issues with protection schemes, such as coordination constraint violations due to change in network configuration. Furthermore, in a few articles, the N-1 line contingency is considered without considering the line contingency selection criterion, resulting in a large number of constraints to deal with in the optimization problem. This paper proposes a new relay coordination scheme for dual setting directional overcurrent relay (DOCR) and distance relay based on the severity index of line outages, which is calculated by using an active and reactive performance index. The proposed protection strategy is improved with the help of an intelligent selection of the relay characteristics coefficient for dual setting DOCR along with the other relay settings. Another significant contribution is to provide a comparative analysis of standard and user-defined relay characteristics using genetic algorithm and grey wolf optimization algorithms. The modified IEEE-14 bus test system and IEEE-39 bus test system is used to validate the efficacy of the proposed protection scheme.

An Adaptable Fault Current Derivative Calculation Method for Derivative Relays in HVDC Grids

This paper presents an adaptable method for fault current derivative calculation in high voltage direct current (HVDC) grids composed of modular multilevel converters (MMCs). The proposed method can be used for current derivative calculation under different fault scenarios including pole-to-pole, pole-to-ground, and pole-to-metallic. The proposed method is adaptable as it can provide accurate fault current derivatives in various grid topologies such as symmetric monopole, asymmetric monopole with ground or metallic return, and bipole with ground or metallic return, as well as grids with different types of converters with and without fault-blocking capability including full-bridge MMCs (FB-MMCs), half-bridge MMCs (HB-MMCs), or a mix of HB- and FB-MMCs. The paper also demonstrates how the proposed current derivative calculation method can be used to form a derivative relay, which is fast, selective, computationally efficient, and insensitive to fault resistance. Furthermore, using the proposed current derivative calculation method, all relay settings are analytically calculated instead of being obtained through time-consuming simulation studies. Simulation results for various fault scenarios, grid topologies, and converter configurations show that the calculation method is accurate and the presented relaying algorithm can detect various faults within 10 <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mu$</tex-math></inline-formula> s, even when the fault resistance is as high as 500 <inline-formula xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$Upomega$</tex-math></inline-formula> .

Enhancing distribution generator impact mitigation using an adaptive protection scheme based on modified pelican optimization algorithm and active database management system

AbstractThis paper addresses the challenge of protecting electrical networks in the presence of distribution generators (DGs). The use of DGs affects fault currents, leading to miscoordination between protection relays and causing constraints on network reliability. To tackle this issue, the authors propose an adaptive protection scheme (APS) based on a modified pelican optimization algorithm (MPOA) and active database management system (ADBMS). The APS coordinates directional overcurrent relays and distance relays, while the MPOA simulates a pelican mating strategy and includes a modified internal equation. The proposed APS is further upgraded with ADBMS to save system resources by storing relay settings in the database and calling them when the state of DGs changes without running optimization algorithms. The effectiveness of the proposed APS is validated on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) eight‐bus test system and the IEEE 14‐bus distribution network. Results indicate that the APS can effectively protect electrical networks in the presence of DGs, while the ADBMS upgrade saves system resources.

Optimal placement and coordination of the protection devices simultaneous with optimal allocation of the DGs

AbstractOptimal coordination of the protection devices (PDs) is performed here simultaneous with optimal allocation of them and the DGs. The PDs are a set of directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) and voltage relays, each with its own fast switch (FS). In previous optimal DG placement studies the coordination of the PDs has been considered as a constraint. So, it was not possible to optimal coordination of the PDs simultaneously. In the present study, the coordination between the PDs is considered in calculating the value of the energy not supplied (ENS) that is a part of an overall cost function. The cost function considered here includes cost of purchase, installation, and maintenance of the DGs and the PDs, cost of the energy losses, cost of the ENS, cost of the purchased energy from the main grid and the DGs, and the penalty cost for emitting environmental pollutants. Here, output of the renewable DGs and the network loads during the year, in a 96‐h model, has been considered as variable. To solve the desired optimization problem, an algorithm based on evolutionary algorithms such as genetic algorithm (GA) is proposed. Finally, various cases have been simulated by considering a standard 33‐bus radial network.

Coordination of protective relays in the substation

&lt;p class="IEEEAbtract"&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-US"&gt;To make an electrical system reliable and cost-effective, its protection coordination is crucial. Protection coordination is a study to determine the trip settings of protective devices. This research proposes protection coordination for Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro, Sindh. This study includes the coordination of relays connected at each department to the main relay connected with the main vacuum circuit breakers (VCB) by using the time characteristic curves (TCC) and time delay setting of relays using ETAP software. This method is used for the trip of a particular circuit breaker at a proper time. Hence, if a fault occurs in any department only that department will be disconnected, and the rest of the departments will remain in a working condition. This study helps to maintain the system’s high reliability.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;