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This paper introduces a new method for evaluating the status of medium-voltage (MV) switching devices by defining two hybrid parameters. The device condition hybrid parameter (DCHP) and the device importance hybrid parameter (DIHP) are defined by using weighing factors. Three different methods were applied for determining the DCHP, while the DIHP is determined by using the differential evolution algorithm. Boundary values for the DCHP are calculated on the basis of economic criterion regarding minimum costs. The proposed approach was primarily developed for applying modern MV switching devices maintenance, but can also be used in network planning and for proper choosing of MV switching devices. It is elucidated by an example. Index Terms--Costs, maintenance, medium-voltage (MV) network, optimization, switching devices.

This paper presents application of multiobjective optimization methods on a capacitive divider finite element model. Modeling is based on the differential evolution algorithm (DE), including the concept of the Pareto nondominance. Through calculations, this concept allows differential evolution algorithm variation in order to achieve uniformly distributed results on the Pareto front, including the lowest population size as possible. Selection step, as a part of the differential evolution method, is properly modified to improve the convergence of the algorithm. The entire research leads to a hybrid algorithm development. Index Terms--Epoxy resin insulators, optimization methods, Pareto distributions, voltage dividers.