Statistical evaluation of lightning overvoltages on overhead distribution lines using neural networks

The evaluation of the lightning performance of overhead distribution lines, usually characterized by a flashover rate, can be a difficult and long task. Due to the random nature of the lightning phenomenon, this evaluation is generally based on statistical calculations. The application of a neural network can shorten and improve the accuracy of the flashover rate calculation. This paper presents a summary of the work performed by the authors to analyze the lightning performance of overhead distribution lines using neural networks.