Optimal fault location in distribution systems using distributed disturbance recordings

In case of a power system disturbance, main focus of the utility is to keep the duration of the interruption as short as possible. This requires fast identification of the fault location, isolation of the defected components and power supply restoration. To achieve the goal “fast and accurate fault location”, distributed fault recordings can be used. Measurements can be retrieved from substation, reclosers or distributed generator relays. This paper presents a new fault location scheme in distribution systems using distributed voltage and current recordings. The algorithm transfers voltage and current from measurement devices through the faulted line. Fault distance is then calculated using a single- or two-ended fault location method. Statistical errors on phasors and networks parameters are considered to obtain an optimal estimation of the fault location. Standard deviation of the fault distance estimate is also calculated. The performance of the algorithm is verified on a simulated distribution system.