Title

A Systematic Approach for Ranking Distribution Systems Fault Location Algorithms and Eliminating False Estimates

Authors

Authors

S. Lotfifard; M. Kezunovic;M. J. Mousavi

Comments

Authors: contact us about adding a copy of your work at STARS@ucf.edu

Abbreviated Journal Title

IEEE Trans. Power Deliv.

Keywords

Distribution systems; fault location; intelligent electronic devices; (IEDs); uncertainty analysis; POWER DISTRIBUTION-SYSTEMS; POINT-ESTIMATE METHOD; DISTRIBUTION FEEDERS; CIRCUIT ANALYSIS; Engineering, Electrical & Electronic

Abstract

The need for distribution reliability enhancement in the age of smart grids requires reliable methods for locating faults on distribution systems leading to a faster service restoration and maintenance cost optimization. Given the numerous fault location methods, one faces the challenge of objectively evaluating and selecting the most proper method. In this paper, a two-step approach is proposed and discussed for ranking available fault location methods that takes into account application requirements and modeling limitations and uncertainties. The ranking method formulated as uncertainty analysis utilizes 2n + 1 point estimation to calculate the statistical moments of the fault location estimation error. These moments plugged into the Chebyshev's inequality provide a basis for ranking the fault location method. The selected method may still suffer from multiple fault location estimations. To address this caveat, voltage sag characteristics reported by few intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) along the feeder are utilized. The number and location of these IEDs are determined through an optimal approach specifically formulated for this problem. The proposed two-step ranking methodology and the IED placement optimization approach were implemented on a simulated distribution system and their effectiveness was demonstrated through a few select scenarios and case studies.

Journal Title

Ieee Transactions on Power Delivery

Volume

28

Issue/Number

1

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

285

Last Page

293

WOS Identifier

WOS:000312889500033

ISSN

0885-8977

Share

COinS