Methodology for Analysis of Electric Distribution Network Criticality Due to Direct Lightning Discharges

Abstract

Direct lightning discharges in overhead distribution networks invariably cause serious insulation damage, frequently leading to the electric system’s partial or total shutdown. Installing lightning arresters can be very effective, and it is commonly used to minimize this problem; however, considering that typically, electric distribution grids exhibit a very large number of electrical nodes, the massive use of lightning arresters may not be economically viable. In this way, this article proposes a methodology for allocating lightning arresters that can significantly reduce the number of lightning arresters installed, but at the same time maintaining an adequate protection level for the distribution grid. The proposed methodology, named Direct Discharge Crossing (DDC), analyzes the network criticality based on two main factors, which are the overvoltage magnitudes and the number of flashovers provoked by lightning discharges, and defines a feeder lightning performance function that is used to indicate the recommended location for lightning arresters’ installation. The simulation studies are accomplished using the IEEE 34 bus distribution grid and ATP software to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed solution, which is confirmed by the results presented.

Modeling and Simulation of Distribution Networks under Lightning Transients: A Comparative Study of Accuracy and Complexity

“…Distribution transformers can be described by models based on equivalent circuits, implemented in network simulations, as demonstrated in [3,4]. The development of these circuits may involve capacitive elements between windings to represent the peak transfer of lightning.…”

Analysis of Metal Oxide Varistor Arresters for Protection of Multiconductor Transmission Lines Using Unconditionally-Stable Crank–Nicolson FDTD

“…In particular, MOVs may represent an efficient choice for limiting lightning and line-switching surges, significantly reducing the outage rate. It is well-documented [18,19] that the use of MOVs may offer additional advantages, which reduce the need for complex solutions to limit switching overvoltages, e.g., controlled closing of circuit breakers equipped with preinsertion resistors.…”

Optimized Protection of Pole-Mounted Distribution Transformers against Direct Lightning Strikes

“…Heuristic algorithms such as the genetic algorithm [6], fuzzy logic [17], etc., are the most commonly used methods to find the optimal placement for a surge arrester, while some works have proposed innovative approaches to the allocation problem. The authors in [18] proposed a novel methodology, namely direct discharge crossing (DDC), to analyze the critical condition of the network and then install surge arresters in optimal locations to prevent equipment failure. The methodology offered a lightning performance function based on two main factors, namely the amplitude of overvoltage and the number of flashovers due to direct lightning, and then recommended the locations of surge arresters to mitigate the lightning overvoltage stress.…”