An algorithm with voltage inputs for detecting conductor breaks in radial distribution networks

Abstract

The article presents a new algorithm for detecting conductor breaks in ungrounded radial distribution networks. The algorithm uses the instantaneous values of the phase-to-phase voltages, measured at the end of the radial line as input signals. As the first indicator of conductor break, the broken conductor index (BCI) was introduced. BCI is a phase comparator that indirectly estimates the angle between the phase-to-phase voltages by calculating the integral of the product of the instantaneous values. As an additional indicator of conductor break, the algorithm uses a comparison of the RMS values of the phase-to-phase voltages. The proposed algorithm testing was performed on a model of the radial distribution network with multiple lines modeled in the MATLAB/Simulink software package. Experimental testing of the presented algorithm was performed on a laboratory model of the test network.

A New Detection Method for Load Side Broken Conductor Fault Based on Negative to Positive Current Sequence

“…A method for early identification of faults in power lines by analyzing the symmetrical voltage components in real-time has been developed [5]. A new approach has been developed in [6] to detect underground cable faults in radial distribution networks. The algorithm uses a radial line's end-measured phase-to-phase voltages as input signals.…”