Detection of arcing faults on distribution feeders. Final report
Some distribution primary faults draw very little fault current and are therefore difficult to detect with existing overcurrent protection systems. The problem of detecting high impedance faults is examined from the perspective of current utility protection practices and it is shown why conventional overcurrent protection systems may not detect such faults. Research by Texas A and M resulted in the design and testing of a microcomputer-based prototype of an arcing, high impedance fault detector. The fault detection technique is based on an increase in the high frequency (2 to 10 kHz) component of distribution feeder current caused by the arcing associated with many high impedance faults. The proposed fault detection system is explained in theory. This theory is supported by field data measurements and analysis of a large number of staged distribution primary faults and normal system conditions. The design and demonstration of the prototype is then explained. The device successfully detected many faults of greater than 5 to 10 A on a typical distribution feeder without false trips. General application of this fault detection technique is also considered, particularly with regard to its strengths and limitations.
- Research Organization:
- Texas A and M Univ., College Station (USA). Research Foundation
- OSTI ID:
- 6609328
- Report Number(s):
- EPRI-EL-2757; ON: DE83900993
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
EHV & UHV-- (-1989)
24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION
440300 -- Miscellaneous Instruments-- (-1989)
47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION
COMPUTERS
CURRENTS
DATA
DATA ANALYSIS
DESIGN
DETECTION
ELECTRIC ARCS
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
ELECTRIC DISCHARGES
ELECTRICAL FAULTS
ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS
ENERGY SYSTEMS
EXPERIMENTAL DATA
FREQUENCY MEASUREMENT
INFORMATION
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
MICROELECTRONIC CIRCUITS
MICROPROCESSORS
NUMERICAL DATA
OVERCURRENT
PERFORMANCE
POWER SYSTEMS
SURGES