Operated device estimation framework

Abstract

Protective device estimation is a challenging task because there are numerous protective devices present in a typical distribution system. Among various protective devices, auto-reclosers and fuses are the main overcurrent protection on distribution systems. Operation of a protective device in response to a particular fault condition depends upon the protective device’s operating behavior and coordination of various such protective devices. This thesis presents the design and implementation of a protective device estimation algorithm which helps in identifying which protective devices have operated to clear a short circuit condition. The algorithm uses manufacturer’s device details, power quality data measured from substation monitoring devices and power system event features estimated using existing DFA algorithms. The proposed technique can be used to evaluate coordination of these protective devices and helps in locating a fault in a distribution system feeder. This approach is independent of feeder topology and could be readily used for any distribution system. The effectiveness of this algorithm is verified by simulated and actual test data. Suggestions are included for future research and application by electric utilities.