Search

Dielectric testing techniques, in both time and frequency domains, are currently widely used by power utilities for assessment of the condition of transformer oil-paper insulation systems. However, it has been reported that results of these tests are highly influenced by the operating temperature during measurements. The distribution, migration and equilibrium of moisture between oil and paper in a complicated insulation system is highly temperature dependent. It requires adequate experience and proper understanding to interpret the dielectric response results in the presence of temperature variations and thermal instability. Proper analysis of the dielectric test result is only possible with an understanding of the physical behavior of the insulation system in response to temperature. A circuit model, which describes the dielectric behavior of the transformers main insulation system, has been investigated in this paper. The values of the parameters of the model have been identified from the dielectric tests. A correlation has been observed between the operating temperature and the equivalent model parameters that can be used as additional information for better interpretation of the dielectric test results. This paper thus reports a detailed study on the effects of temperature on dielectric measurements of a transformer under controlled laboratory conditions. Some results of practical on-site testing are also presented to demonstrate the possibility of errors that may be introduced in dielectric test results analysis unless temperature effects are taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest of a series of classified lists of power system relaying references, begun in 1927, is presented. This bibliography is in continuation to the bibliographies of relay literature, which were published previously and are contained in the following volumes of the IEEE Transactions: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest of a series of classified lists of power system relaying references, begun in 1927, is presented. This bibliography is in continuation to the bibliographies of relay literature, which were published previously and are contained in the following volumes of the IEEE Transactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, postmortem aging investigations on insulation material of power transformers are presented. A methodology for taking paper samples in a systematical manner and a scheme for calculating an average degree of polymerization (DP) for the entire transformer out of the DP values of the individual paper samples will be shown. The typical DP profile in the axial direction of transformer coils will be explained using calculated distribution of losses within the coils of a 740-MVA generator stepup transformer. Further, correlations between the furan (2-FAL) concentration in the oil and the average DP of the investigated German GSU transformers and grid transformers are derived and compared with existing correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Electricity distribution companies are in-charge-of supplying stable electric energy to urban customers over a wide geographical area. In these distribution networks, large number of Distribution-Transformers (DTs) are installed on towers or in electric-rooms with the ratings below 1000 kVA, which are the most important assets of distribution companies. Periodic maintenance and test services are not economically feasible for all in-operation transformers. Hence, estimating the remaining useful life and scheduling the maintenance times of DTs are of great technical and economic importance. An analytical approach is presented in this paper for predicting lifetime of DTs based on degree of polymerization. An appropriate Machine-Learning (ML) algorithm trained by measured data is selected for forecasting driven load according to the ambient temperature and humidity and day-hour schedules. The relation of Hot-Spot-Temperature in IEC60076∼7 is modified based on the measured data for accounting unbalanced-loading. Neutral-current is predicted using a trained ML-model. Another approach is proposed for determining times of oil filtering services aiming to minimize the maintenance cost and maximizing the remaining life. The proposed lifetime estimation method is validated by comparing its results with the damaged DT data of a sample network chosen as the case studies for this research, i.e., Bushehr province, Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active electricity distribution systems (AEDS) play an important role on the social welfare that is highly relies on the reliability of these systems. In this regard, maintenance management tries to decrease component failures via repairing component that are more possible to be failed in operation time. In this manuscript, a stochastic MINLP maintenance scheduling model is proposed in which the reliability of AEDS's equipment is considered through employing a three-state Markov model. This model helps us to embed the uncertainty of AEDS's equipment service restoration time by considering online monitoring system for it and FLISR functions in AEDS. In this paper, minimizing the total cost of AEDS is determined as objective function considering total customer interruption cost, total cost of energy not supplied, total cost of prevented maintenance actions, total corrective maintenance actions cost implemented in the AEDS and total cost of implementing online monitoring for AEDS's component in maintenance scheduling. The proposed framework is applied in two different cases, Case I is maintenance scheduling without online monitoring system and Case II is maintenance scheduling with online monitoring system. The aforementioned cases are implemented in an IEEE Test System as well as a real scale distribution network. Moreover, several sensitivity analyses are implemented for indicating the efficiency of the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unbalanced nature of distribution systems requires a multiphase load-flow solution capable of handling arbitrary network topologies and providing accurate results. The need for detailed analysis of secondary grid systems found in dense urban areas and the modeling of distribution networks including the subtransmission level requires using highly efficient and large-scale system-capable methods. In this paper, three different load-flow solution algorithms are presented using the modified-augmented-nodal-analysis formulation. The load-flow solution algorithms are compared for the IEEE 8500-node distribution test feeder using a proposed regulator tap control strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

An online approach based on application of search coil for transformer winding fault detection is presented in this paper. Earlier attempts report use of search coil for the detection of transformer interturn fault. This paper extends application of search coil for detection of winding displacement in addition to interturn fault identification. Experimental results based on specially designed 10-kVA transformer are presented to analyze search coil voltages during healthy and faulty conditions. The algorithm detects phase ($U$ , $V$, $W$), side (LV, HV), and precise location of the fault. Discrimination between interturn fault and winding radial displacement is also achieved by search coil voltage analysis. The results are experimentally verified based on impedance analyzer plots. Experimental analysis indicates that the proposed method is independent of load on the transformer, vector group, nature of winding, balanced or unbalanced source voltage, source voltage harmonics, inrush, and overexcitation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the finite-elements method was used to analyze the approximation being typically used in the international standards for the calculation of the touch voltage, appearing at earth faults in power networks. The calculations in this paper were performed on the series of earthing systems applied in practice and the results are compared with the results of the widely accepted approximate method from standards. The origin of discrepancy in the results is analyzed and evaluated. The outcome of this paper is the justification of the application of Thevenin's theorem and the development of the higher accuracy equations for the resistance between feet and remote earth in case of the application of high resistivity additional surface material. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper deals with the useless active powers and the reactive powers included in the unbalance power (SU1), and in the nonfundamental effective apparent power (SeN) defined in IEEE Standard 1459. Only the fundamental positive-sequence active power (P1^{+}) must be delivered to loads under ideal supply operating conditions. Fundamental negative- and zero-sequence active powers (P1^{-} and P1^{0}, respectively), and the harmonic active power (PH) are considered useless active powers because they increase the power losses in the load and in the distribution lines, reducing the global efficiency of the electrical power systems. SU1 and SeN are calculated in this paper for two cases, resolving the effective apparent power (Se) by means of the product between the terms of the effective voltage (Ve) and the effective current (Ie). It yields to expressions of some useless active powers and reactive powers that differ from the definitions included in IEEE Standard 1459. New definitions of Ve, Ie, and Se are proposed to avoid the disagreements detailed in this paper. The new definitions are compared with the IEEE Standard 1459 definitions by means of one numerical example. Magnitudes calculated by means of the IEEE Standard 1459 definitions present a general overvaluation that arrives at a maximum of 83% for SU1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the structure of underground cables, the frequency dependence of shunt admittances is more important to underground cables than to overhead lines. The main purpose of this paper is to establish a frequency-dependent underground cable model for advanced research and analysis regarding the influences of frequency-dependent shunt admittances on underground cable systems. The model will be more practical by adding the frequency dependence of shunt admittances into mathematical models and transferring them to the corresponding programming codes. In the cable Electromagnetic Transient Program (EMTP) models, the frequency dependence of shunt admittances could be represented by a set of equivalent circuits with constant parameters that can be determined by observing the characteristics of shunt admittances, then synthesizing them with a rational function approximation for discrete-time EMTP solutions. A number of simulation cases are presented in this paper to show that the frequency dependence of shunt admittances for underground cable systems leads to magnitude attenuation and strong traveling time reduction in a transient period of voltages. Also, the influences of frequency-dependent capacitances on cable systems are comparatively more impressive than those of frequency-dependent conductances. The conclusions are supported by numerical simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lightning is considered one of the main causes of faults in overhead distribution networks. Direct strokes usually lead to flashovers due to the insulation levels that are used. Induced overvoltages caused by indirect lightning are usually lower and can be efficiently reduced by metal–oxide surge arresters. Hence, its associated flashover rate can be reduced. In this paper, a heuristic method is proposed to optimize the number of surge arresters as well as their locations. The method presented is based on genetic algorithms and an economic approach is taken into account by means of evaluating the cost of insulation flashover. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the integration of intermittent renewable generation, transmission voltage problems have become more dynamic. The deployment and tuning of numbers of VAr compensators at various locations may not be cost-effective. This paper presents an alternative method, which utilizes existing parallel transformers in distribution networks, to provide reactive power absorption services for transmission systems with low demands. The operation of parallel transformers in small different tap positions, that is, with staggered taps, can provide a means of absorbing reactive power. The aggregated VAr absorption from many pairs of parallel transformers could be used to provide voltage support to the upstream transmission network. This paper focuses on the economic and technical analyses of using the tap staggering method. For the economic analysis, the associated costs of applying the tap staggering technique are investigated through static load-flow studies. The IEEE Reliability Test System is used to carry out the studies and the results are compared with the installation of shunt reactors. In the technical studies, the dynamic impacts of tap staggering or reactor switching on transmission voltages are analyzed. From the results, the tap staggering technique has more economic advantages than reactors and can reduce the voltage damping and overshoots during the transient states. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents an algorithm for fast, directional detection of phase-to-ground faults in isolated neutral distribution grids. The method reacts directionally and very fast to fault conditions (1–2 samples after fault inception, even without large di0/dt). Moreover, the method is able to detect low- and high-impedance faults (HIF), permanent or transient faults. The algorithm is independent of the sampling frequency, very robust to noise, and does not need calibration of the sensors. The direction detection method relies on the fault model identification, based on the zero-sequence grid capacitance estimate for isolated neutral grids. The estimate is obtained from the fault circuit differential equation, solved with the least-squares method, where appropriate numerical modifications have been introduced. The sign of the estimate provides the directional information, whereas the magnitude of the modified estimate indicates the fault. The directional principle is validated in simulation and the fault detection method is validated with real fault records from the RedNA project. The paper reworks the equations that define the nondetection zone, so that the method is comparable to the classical residual overcurrent and overvoltage functions, typically used to detect HIF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this two-part paper is to present a comprehensive reliability-centerd maintenance framework tailored to power distribution systems. The first paper discusses the fundamental concepts, presents the developed algorithm, and introduces the required mathematical formulations. This second paper is focused on the application of the proposed methodology on a real distribution system. Considerable effort is devoted to examine the proposed method in a step-by-step manner to clarify the implementation procedure. The required data for the procedure are taken from available references and follow reasonable technical assumptions. Practical aspects are incorporated, and the results obtained are thoroughly discussed. The concluding remarks are outlined to summarize the paper set which also brings to light superiorities of the proposed scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper presents an investigation of utilizing dc links to merge heavily meshed urban distribution networks in dense-load areas to increase reliability and expand operational flexibility. It provides a cost-benefit evaluation of utilizing dc-link technology to interconnect three segments of New York City electric distribution networks with complex grid configurations. The outcome of this work highlights the advantages provided by dc links, such as increased reliability and power quality, improved voltage support, and demand relief for feeders at or above capacity limitations. Furthermore, the study shows that dc links may provide a better alternative to transformer installations, feeder upgrades, and/or capacitor additions, and offer the opportunity to postpone large capital investments for system upgrades (such as building a new substation) due to demand increase. The study was carried out with power-flow simulations using field-validated power-flow data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the advantages of using nonsynchronous microgrids in networked systems containing densely concentrated loads. The nonsynchronous bus arrangement, in addition to allowing for the integration of substantially larger distributed generation, completely isolates transient disturbances from and to the network and the microgrid. Significant is the fact that distributed generators installed in the microgrid do not contribute to the short-circuit current that needs to be interrupted by the substation breakers. The behavior of the grid and the microgrid is investigated by comparing: the occurrence of faults, voltage reduction, and losses, in the presence and absence of the microgrid. The benefits of the dc microgrid are made evident with steady-state and transient studies performed on a real distribution network in New York City. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Sandia frequency-shift method, among all frequency-based active islanding detection methods (IDMs), is one of the most effective methods for inverter based distributed generators (DGs). The nondetection zone (NDZ) of the Sandia frequency shift (SFS) highly depends on its design parameters. If the design parameters are not properly tuned, they may result in failure of the method or deterioration of the system power quality (PQ) through injection of a high amount of harmonics. The main objective of this paper is to propose a new algorithm for SFS method parameter determination, which would add precision to the previous parameter design criterion. In this paper, also a new formula for multi-DG applications is proposed which results in optimally setting of all SFS parameters to eliminate NDZ. Using the new criterion, the negative impact of the conventional criterion on PQ is reduced, and the efficiency of the SFS IDM is increased. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm results in more accurate detection of the islanding phenomenon in the shortest possible time. All of the simulations and NDZ analysis are carried out in the MATLAB environment. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Unintentional islanding detection is a primary requirement for the interconnection of synchronous distributed generators (DGs). For this purpose, voltage and frequency-based relays are largely employed due to their low cost and simplicity However, these devices are not totally reliable due to their associated nondetection zone (NDZ). The NDZ is an effective tool to evaluate the performance of these relays against islanding occurrence. In this context, this paper presents a simple and practical analytical method to estimate the NDZ of frequency and voltage-based relays without relying on numerous, time-consuming electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulations. The main contribution is that one can easily estimate the NDZ of these protection systems based on a few analytical expressions. The effectiveness and generality of the analytical method are verified by comparing its results with those obtained by repeated, intensive EMT simulations for different power distribution networks and different relay types. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The proper modeling of the transient thermal behavior of mutual heating effects between underground power cables is very important for the rating of transmission and distribution cables. The IEC standards proposed an accurate model based on exponential integrals that it can be difficult to implement in basic electrical software. The model is not consistent with the layered modeling of the cable thermal resistances. In this paper, a simple and easy-to-use alternative model is presented. It consists of injecting the correct current at the right position of the RC circuit representing the soil. The new model can accurately reproduce the full physics of the transient phenomenon and is consistent with the modeling of the cable used in the IEC standards themselves. The new model is tested and validated against numerous finite-element simulations for realistic cable installations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A High Impedance Fault (HIF) in the power distribution systems remains mostly undetected by conventional protection schemes due to low fault currents. Apart from degrading the reliability of power supply to customers, HIF can impose a high cost on the utilities due to technical damages. The nonlinear and asymmetric nature of HIF makes its detection and identification very challenging. HIF signatures are in the form of minute-level distortions in the observable AC sinusoidal voltage and current waveforms but these signatures do not follow a clear pattern. In this paper, we present Advanced Distortion Detection Technique (ADDT), based on waveform analytics to distinguish and detect HIF. In addition, the ADDT analysis provides a fair assessment about the location and severity of HIF for efficient decision-making at the DSO level. ADDT is computationally lightweight and can be implemented in actual relays, hence it is enabled to provide an easy and cost-effective solution to HIF detection issues. ADDT robustness is tested in several simulation cases of interest using the IEEE-34 and IEEE-13 distribution test feeder systems in RTDS power system simulator. The test results successfully demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of ADDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the nonuniformed distribution of leakage current in a wooden pole with the cross arm attached by using the network ladder model and evaluates the effectiveness of leakage current shunting arrangements that could minimize the occurrence of pole fire. The mitigation method that is proposed in this paper diverts excessive leakage current from a fire-prone hotspot along the wooden structure by using a special shunting method. A comparison between the existing shunting methods and the new cost-effective shunting method is presented. The findings in this paper will be beneficial toward the understanding of the current flow in the internal wooden power pole and, thus, help us to find new methods that can effectively mitigate the pole fire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents induced voltage measurement results along a conductor pair inside a 4.5″, 9-m-long galvanized steel tube, with an intermediate screwed joint. The excitation was done by an external parallel conductor where a 60-Hz current flows, followed by an impulsive current (5 kA, 8/20 μs). Some measurements with the external joint short-circuited cast a great doubt about the validity of all Schelkunoff transfer impedance concept. The paper focuses also the recommended calculation procedures using Circuit Theory. This paper also shows that there are strong evidences that the classical Maxwell equations were developed to represent wireless propagation such as light and wireless communication. The paper suggests as well the convenience of a deeper verification on the validity of applying Maxwell equations to solve metallic circuit problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel philosophy to compensate the load-reactive power demand through a three-phase unified power quality conditioner (UPQC). Most of the UPQC-based applications show the dependency on shunt inverter for load-reactive power compensation, whereas the series inverter is always looked as controlled voltage source to handle all voltage-related problems. This paper proposes a new functionality of UPQC in which both the shunt and series APFs supply the load-reactive power demand. This feature not only helps to share the load-reactive power demand, but also helps to reduce the shunt APF rating, and hence, the overall cost of UPQC. This results in better utilization of the existing series inverter. The theory and complete mathematical analysis termed as "power angle control (PAC)" is presented. The simulation results based on MATLAB/Simulink are discussed in detail to support the concept developed in the paper. The proposed approach is also validated through experimental study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an inverter-interfaced distributed generation (DG) device, dubbed the premium power supply (PPS), which is designed to provide reliable electric power, and to improve power quality. This paper proposes an effective configuration for the PPS, using inverters, an inter-tie breaker, and a small generating unit. When the DGs are operated in parallel with the utility systems, some problems occur due to interconnections on such categories as reverse power flow and island protection. This paper advances both an operating strategy and a control scheme for the PPS, with respect to the interconnection standard, IEEE Standard 1547. Simulation results demonstrate the efficacy of the PPS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new impedance-based technique to locate all fault types in distribution networks with/without distributed generators. A new procedure to form an impedance matrix using only series impedances of the distribution lines is introduced. The impedance matrix along with the prefault and during-fault voltage phasors at few buses is used to estimate the injection fault current via the least-squares technique. Linear least-squares estimator is utilized if microphasor measurement units (\mu \rmPMUs) are installed along the network. However, a nonlinear least-squares problem solved by the trust-region-reflective algorithm is used when only the voltage magnitudes are provided by smart meters. The operation of the standard protective devices in the distribution networks is used to reduce the computational burden of the proposed method. Also, a generalized measurement placement algorithm is studied using the discovered features of the impedance matrix. In addition, the Sobol's sensitivity analysis is conducted to quantify the importance of different input factors on the fault location accuracy. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated on a real 134-bus, 13.8 kV distribution network under several fault scenarios and noisy measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In hydroelectric power plants, which are characterized by particularly high short-circuit current levels and high time constants, conventional current transformer specifications can result in increased equipment dimensions, thus complicating their installation, especially during refurbishment projects. This paper presents a study to assess the potential of various low-power instrument transformers (LPITs) for generator protection applications. Two types of LPITs were evaluated: the optical current transformer (OCT) and the stand alone merging unit (SAMU). To test the OCT, a 65-kA-peak test source was developed using a real-time simulator. This source was used to inject symmetrical and asymmetrical currents into LPITs for the assessment of protection accuracy class. Low-current tests were also performed to assess their metering classes. This paper presents the design of a high-current test bench, measurement uncertainty analysis, and analysis algorithms used for device evaluation. Analysis results are then presented and discussed in terms of their applicability to generator differential protection using SAMUs and OCTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on estimating the substation grounding resistance to improve the modeling of geomagnetically induced currents (GICs). Grounding resistances are not included in the standard power flow models, and their approximate values are often used for performing GIC studies. This paper provides an algorithm to estimate the resistances from the GIC measurements. This algorithm calculates the linear sensitivity factors of the GICs around the local grounding resistive components and uses linear regression to solve for the resistances. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated using both a small test case as well as a 62 500-bus model of the North American Eastern Interconnection. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper shows that there is great potential for saving money when reconfiguring distribution systems at an optimal frequency. Studies are conducted on hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal reconfiguration plans, based on the 8760 hourly loads of a year. Switches that actively participate in the reconfiguration process are first identified. These sectionalizers are substituted by smart (remotely controlled) switches. According to the results, two economic indices: total savings and return on investment are used to determine the optimal switching frequency. Numerical simulations are conducted on three distribution systems including one with 119 buses that is commonly used as a benchmark for reconfiguration of large-scale distribution systems. The results reveal that there exist large potential gains on frequent switching reconfiguration. Therefore, detailed studies must be carried out to determine the benefits of the dynamic reconfiguration for particular distribution systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the concept of provision of differentiated quality of electricity supply based on customers' requirements in distribution networks. To fulfill this concept, five new gap indices are proposed to reflect the satisfaction of the received power-quality (PQ) performance compared to the thresholds which are set based on customers' requirements regarding the performance of individual PQ phenomenon or the aggregated PQ performance. Using these new indices as objective functions, an optimization-based mitigation strategy is proposed to carry out the strategic placement of different flexible ac transmission systems devices based on the analysis of PQ performance and sensitivity analysis. In this methodology, a greedy algorithm is applied to search the optimal mitigation scheme in order to enable the provision of differentiated PQ levels. The feasibility of the proposed mitigation methodology is demonstrated using a large-scale generic distribution network. The advantages and disadvantages of using the proposed indices as the optimization objective functions are also analyzed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new wind turbine transformers protection method against high du/dt switching transients taking place during a wind turbine operation is described. High-frequency transients, characterized by a high rate of voltage rise (du/dt) and overvoltage at the wind turbine transformer high-voltage terminals may be a result of operations of the turbine switchgear typically comprising a vacuum circuit breaker. The protection concept described in this paper is a follow up of research activities on a transients suppressing method dedicated for distribution transformers. The principle of operation of the protective device proposed and parameters optimization procedures for windmill transformers are provided in this paper. The performance of the device was verified by means of Alternative Transients Program–Electromagnetic Transients Program simulations. The physical device was built and experimentally verified by full-scale functional tests reflecting a real wind turbine power network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

These instructions give guidelines for preparing papers for this publication. Presents information for authors publishing in this journal. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a new method to improve the reliability of the distribution system using the reconfiguration strategy. In this regard, a new cost function is defined to include the cost of active power losses of the network and the customer interruption costs simultaneously. Also, in order to calculate the reliability indices of the load points, the reconfiguration technique is considered as a failure-rate reduction strategy. Regarding the reliability cost, the composite customer damage function is employed to find the customer interruption cost data. Meanwhile, a powerful stochastic framework based on a two- point estimate method is proposed to capture the uncertainty of random parameters. Also, a novel self-adaptive modification method based on the clonal selection algorithm is proposed as the optimization tool. The feasibility and satisfying performance of the proposed method are examined on the 69-bus IEEE test system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliable operation of distribution systems is critically dependent on detailed understanding of load impacts on distribution transformer insulation systems. This paper estimates the impact of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) generation on a typical 200-kVA, 22/0.415-kV distribution transformer life under different operating conditions. This transformer supplies a suburban area with a high penetration of roof top photovoltaic systems. The transformer loads and the phase distribution of the PV systems are significantly unbalanced. Oil and hot-spot temperature and remnant life of distribution transformer under different PV and balance scenarios are calculated. It is shown that PV can significantly extend the transformer life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synchronous-machine DGs are well known to cause miscoordination of distribution system protections because of the generator's ability to contribute large fault currents to the fault. This paper proposes a field discharge circuit to limit the generator's fault current, thus leading to a synchronous-machine DG with little impact on distribution system protection. In this paper, the operation of a solid-state switch-based field discharge circuit is studied, and its effects on the generator's output current during the fault are investigated. It is shown that the proposed scheme removes the steady-state component of the fault current and accelerates the decay of the transient ac component of the current. The results demonstrate that the proposed field discharge circuit is sufficient to prevent miscoordination of the feeder protections when short time-delay and/or inverse-time overcurrent relays are involved in the protection scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Time-varying electricity rates enable demand-side potentials, which provide an opportunity for distribution companies (DisCos) to hedge against the financial risk imposed by volatile spot market prices and uncertain customers' load. In particular, time-varying rates can be effective alternatives for at least a portion of costly forward contracts. This paper establishes a stochastic framework to determine optimal forward market purchases under time-varying rates. Various electricity rating strategies with different time intervals covering flat, time-of-use, and real-time pricing schemes are considered. The objective of the framework is to maximize DisCo's expected profit while the exposure risk is restricted to a predetermined level. The risk is modeled using the conditional value at risk approach. The elastic behavior of demand is taken into account via the price elasticity matrix model. The proposed framework is formulated as a mixed-integer linear programming problem which can be easily solved through commercially available solvers. The effectiveness of the developed methodology is examined through comprehensive case studies based on real data from Finland. A detailed comparison on the scheduling of forward contracts under different rating strategies is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In Australia and many other countries, distribution network service providers (DNSPs) have an obligation to their customers to provide electrical power that is reliable and of high quality. Failure to do so may have significant implications ranging from financial penalties theoretically through to the loss of a license to distribute electricity. In order to ensure the reliability and quality of supply are met, DNSPs engage in monitoring and reporting practice. This paper provides an overview of a large long-running power-quality monitoring project that has involved most of Australia's DNSPs at one time or another. This paper describes the challenges associated with conducting the project as well as some of the important outcomes and lessons learned. A number of novel reporting techniques that have been developed as part of the monitoring project are also presented. A discussion about large-volume data management, and issues related to reporting requirements in future distribution networks is included. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

With the high penetration of distributed generations (DGs), the conventional radial distribution network is becoming an active distribution network (ADN). It has the characteristics of multisource, multibranch, bidirectional power and fault current flow, as well as weak infeed. To provide effective protection for such a network, a novel current differential protection scheme, together with new implementation technology, is proposed in this paper. In this scheme, instead of using phase currents, a positive-sequence fault component (PSFC) is introduced into the differential protection. By building the PSFC equivalent circuit of the ADN, the distribution characteristic of PSFC within the ADN is theoretically analyzed in detail, especially for the case when the ADN contains inverter interfaced DGs. The PSFC-based differential protection criteria for different types of feeder are then established and simulated. To put the scheme into practice, data self-synchronization and peer-to-peer communication techniques are established. Based on this principle and using an advanced hardware platform, a protection prototype is successfully developed and tested. The test results verify the feasibility of the proposed protection scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-phase trip and high-speed reclose (SPTR) schemes applied on extra-high-voltage (EHV) lines offer significant benefits over three-phase schemes as they help maintain synchronism and stability in sparse transmission networks. However, a secondary arc may persist and prevent timely recovery of the air insulation. In this situation, high-speed reclosing will attempt to re-energize the still-faulted line, adding stress to the system instead of benefiting the system from the SPTR scheme. Using staged fault and fault disturbance data recorded from several 500 kV lines, this paper presents validation of an enhanced hybrid scheme incorporating secondary arc extinction detection logic designed to avoid high-speed reclosing onto faults while also allowing single-phase reclose in cases where it would be successful. The new logic is now being applied to several 500 kV lines in BC Hydro to improve transmission system reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this paper, for the first time, a high-impedance fault indicator (HIFI), to be mounted on the poles of distribution feeders, is proposed to detect and track down the location of high-impedance faults (HIFs). The main contribution of this paper is the investigation of employing the magnetic-field strength signal, measured in the vicinity of the conductors of a feeder, to detect HIFs based on a novel pattern recognition method. The proposed HIFIs should be installed so that the faulted branch identification becomes possible and simple (i.e., at the sending ends of branches). Applying the data for HIFs, insulator leakage current and harmonic load from field tests and for other similar phenomena from simulations has shown high security and dependability of the proposed method as a computational model for HIFI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ion flow from the bundle conductors of HVDC transmission lines is different from that of a single conductor. This paper presents systematic research on the spatial distribution of ion current due to corona around bundle conductors. A corona cage capable of fitting different bundle conductors is designed for the experiments. Extensive measurements are carried out in different voltages and polarities for four kinds of bundle conductors. To determine the roughness factor of the wires, the experiment with a single conductor is also included. The numerical methods, based on computation along the electric flux lines or based on triangle meshes, are used to calculate the ion current distribution around bundle conductors. Charge density distributions on different bundles are compared. To improve the accuracy of the mesh-based method, a new scheme of surface charge density distribution on the bundle is proposed. The characteristics of the ion current distribution and the total ion current of the bundle are also analyzed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Assessment of conservation voltage reduction (CVR) deployment largely depends on load-to-voltage sensitivity (LTV). Therefore, two quantifiers—voltage and the load consumption—are truly responsible for measuring the CVR factor (CVRF), which is the primary index for calculating the load or energy consumption reduction. Simultaneously, CVR deployment improves the voltage profile by providing line relief due to the reduction in consumption. Hence, it is also important for the utilities to know the voltage sensitivity factor (VSF) during the CVR deployment period. This paper provides a comprehensive comparison of two different voltage sensitive load models—ZIP and exponential model—to estimate the CVRF and the VSF. The comparison is done in a time varying manner since the parameters of load models vary with time as the voltage changes. Two different sets of dual-stage filtering methods are used to estimate the load parameters and observe which load model accurately identifies the CVRF and the VSF. Stochasticity in load variation is also considered in the estimation process. This process helps the utilities to assess the CVRF and VSF for a target feeder using the most accurate load model. The entire estimation is done using actual data from a 22.86 kV distribution feeder, provided by duke energy progress. Moreover, the validation of the estimated parameters is done using the original circuit associated with the measurements in OpenDSS Software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an evaluation method of strength measure for the static voltage stability analysis of the hybrid multi-infeed dc (HMIdc) system, which comprises both the line-commutated converter-based high voltage dc (LCC-HVdc) and voltage source converter-based HVdc (VSC-HVdc) links. For this purpose, the coupled single-port model proposed originally to assess the static voltage stability of ac power systems is first extended in the HMIdc system. In particular, how the LCC-HVdc and VSC-HVdc links should be modeled in the extended coupled single-port model is further investigated. Then, a generalized effective short-circuit ratio (GESCR) index is proposed as a strength measure for the static voltage stability analysis of the HMIdc system using the extended coupled single-port model. The GESCR can resolve the ambiguity encountered by earlier indices arising from empirical reasoning; thus, it is able to indicate the static voltage stability of the HMIdc system more accurately. Finally, the simulated results based on a classical simplified HMIdc system and a modified IEEE 118-bus system, both including two LCC-HVdc links and a VSC-HVdc link, validate the proposed GESCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the difficulty in locating high-resistance grounding faults, this paper proposes a novel fault location method for HVdc transmission lines by considering double-end unsynchronized using Hilbert–Huang transform and one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN). After the fault signal is collected at both ends, the proposed method can achieve high-precision fault location, requiring only the two ends data transmission without time synchronization. After Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD), the high-frequency components of the double-terminal fault signals are connected in series to make a characteristic waveform. This waveform contains characteristics of different fault types and distances, which can be learned by CNN. The trained CNN can then be used to achieve fault location effectively. As a comparison, two fault location methods based on traditional traveling wave and machine learning are introduced. Electromagnetic transient simulation software PSCAD/EMTDC has been used to carry out various types of fault simulation on the ± 500 kV HVdc transmission system. The results show that the proposed method can reliably and accurately locate line faults under fault resistance up to 5200 Ω. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The smart transformer (ST), with its high control capability, offers new features for optimizing the management of the distribution grid. The ST, by controlling the voltage in each phase independently, is able to manage the operations during grid faults, in particular in the single-phase ones. The ST, when a single-phase-to-ground fault occurs, can rapidly reduce the voltage in the phase under fault. Thus, it guarantees system safety and operates with the remaining two healthy phases to avoid unnecessary interruption in the healthy lines. However, the two-phase asymmetrical operation challenges the system performances due to the high power 2nd harmonic ripple in the dc voltage, that reduces the capacitors, lifespan and the high current flowing in the neutral conductor. These issues would force the grid operator to increase the ST maintenance, in order to avoid unplanned faults in the ST hardware, due to failure of aged capacitors. This paper presents a flexible-control strategy, based on the phase-shift angle control between two healthy-phase voltages, that reduces the impact of the power 2nd harmonic oscillation and thus can delay the maintenance intervention. The proposed strategy aims to improve system performances by avoiding neutral-line current overload and attenuating ac side active power (low voltage dc-link voltage) oscillation. Depending on the grid conditions (small dc link capacitance or low ampacity of neutral cable), the voltage angle can be adapted, minimizing the impact of the two-phase operation system in the ST-fed grid. The effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed approach have been validated experimentally with a simplified microgrid setup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale integration of wind generation changes the power swing characteristics of a power system and may result in the misoperation of legacy power swing protection schemes. This paper presents a qualitative study on the impact of wind generation on power swing protection. The objective is to provide an understanding of the problem through case studies and present possible solutions and adjustments in protection schemes to ensure the efficiency of protection under large-scale integration of wind generation. The misoperation of power swing protection functions, namely power swing blocking and out-of-step tripping (OST), as a result of increased wind generation levels, are shown through case studies. It is also shown that the electrical center of a power system may move due to wind generation. In this case, it would be necessary to revise the optimal location of the OST protection. Finally, the impact of various factors, such as wind generator type, control scheme and fault-ride-through function, and wind generation level and capacity are investigated to determine the key features that need to be accounted for in practical protection studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the occurrence of a permanent fault in a DC microgrid, apart from isolating the faulty section using a solid-state circuit breaker, the protection system should also have the fault position located so that repair crew can be sent to clear the fault and restore the isolated section. Available fault location methods are either influenced by network topology or need to add costly equipment. Located immediately next to the faulty line, the solid-state circuit breaker has the advantage of position required for injecting and detecting fault location signals, and it is isolated from the rest of the system by disconnector after fault interruption. Therefore, using the solid-state circuit breaker for fault location has a potential research value. However, it is rarely discussed in previous literatures. In this paper, an improved topology of the solid-state circuit breaker is proposed, which is able to inject signals into the isolated faulty line to determine fault position. By reusing components, the improved topology can achieve function expansion without much increasing the size and cost for fault protection, obtaining an accurate result uninfluenced by the network topology. Simulations and experiments are conducted in a 200 V/DC system to verify the effectiveness of the design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For meaningful distribution system analysis, correct information of the feeder parameter is necessary. However, in many cases (especially in the developing countries), these parameters are not known accurately. To address this issue, a methodology for estimating the feeder parameters from the measured values of power flow and node voltages is proposed in this paper. It is shown that the resulting system of equations is extremely ill-conditioned in nature and to solve this ill-conditioned system of equations, an optimization-based procedure is developed. The feasibility of the proposed methodology has been validated on the IEEE 123-bus three-phase unbalanced radial distribution system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To ensure safe re-energizing of an overhead distribution feeder after it is de-energized for an extended period, a novel fault detection technique by controlling a thyristor-based device is proposed in a companion paper. The device connected in parallel with a breaker or recloser can inject electrical pulses with adjustable strength for the downstream fault detection in a de-energized system. The proposed method can effectively detect different kinds of asymmetrical faults based on the unbalanced fault currents. However, the unbalanced current-based fault detection scheme is not effective for three-phase symmetrical faults detection. Furthermore, a stalled motor or a shunt-connected capacitor bank in the downstream may also behaves like a short-circuit. Therefore, a fault detection algorithm based on the analysis of the harmonic impedance of the de-energized system is developed in this paper. This method is very effective for the symmetrical fault detection and for distinguishing a stalled motor and capacitor bank from a fault. Extensive lab test results are provided in the paper to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with calculating the optimum rating for two dynamic voltage restorers (DVRs) when used in an interline DVR (IDVR) structure. An IDVR consists of two or more DVRs which have a common dc link and, thus, can exchange active power. This can increase the compensation range of an IDVR compared with separate but otherwise similar DVRs. The basic operation of the DVR and IDVR is briefly explained. The limitations of IDVR operation in terms of active power exchange are explained and, based on that, the expressions governing the steady-state operation of IDVR are derived. The compensation range of an IDVR is compared with that of two separate DVRs. This paper also explores how the limitations in absorbing power from a healthy feeder can narrow the compensation range of an IDVR. After identifying and formulating various limitations in IDVR operation, a design procedure is presented to determine the optimum size (or rating) of the DVRs in an IDVR structure. In the proposed approach, all possible scenarios concerning healthy and faulty feeders are taken into consideration. Examples along with graphs and tables aid in conveying the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]