Fault Tree Synthesis From a Directed Graph Model for a Power Distribution Network

The Lapp-Powers fault tree synthesis algorithm is applied to an electrical power distribution network and the cut sets are derived for a sustained loss of power on one busbar. This algorithm is based on a directed graph (digraph) representation of the system, in contrast with the method of Camarda, et al. which is based on a reliability graph. The digraph model forces an explicit evaluation of the corrective actions (negative feedback and negative feed forward) that are taken to counteract disturbances which enter the network. The presentation is tutorial and shows the disciplined application of fault-tree synthesis operators.