Economic Analysis of Automatic Distribution Feeder Sectionalizing

This paper presents the results of an economic analysis of automatic distribution feeder sectionalizing and the methodology for determining the net cost of applying fuse cutouts and reclosers on a system. The methodology--which can be extended to include circuit breakers, sectionalizers, and other distribution switchgear-- compares annual present worths to evaluate under what conditions which protective device--a fuse cutout or a recloser--is the better economic choice. Case studies are presented for a fuse cutout versus a recloser in single- and three-phase taps, replacing a fuse cutout with a recloser in single- and three-phase taps and adding reclosers at a feeder mid-point. Results of sensitivity analyses performed to determine the effect of variances in utility cost parameters on the present worths of fuse cutouts and single-phase reclosers are also presented.