A simple unsynchronized two-end algorithm for faults location and identification in electrical distribution systems

In this paper, the authors propose a simple model-based methodology for faults identification and location in electrical distribution systems. Its ease allows the implementation on a micro-controller based apparatus to be installed at each Medium Voltage substation. The model is based on a lumped parameters representation of each span of line that can be affected by a fault. The input electrical features are unsynchronized line currents and line-to-line voltages and at the two ends of each span of line. Using line-to-line voltages instead than line-to-ground voltages, as suggested by many authors, brings a big benefit because the value of the reference ground voltage, especially at distribution level, can be affected by large uncertainties. The paper describes the proposed two-end algorithm that allows the location and identification of faults and finally in the application section some test results based on simulations are reported.