IEC 61850-based logic selectivity scheme for the MV distribution network

The electricity distribution network is a critical infrastructure of the modern society. The continuity of the electricity distribution service is therefore a key topic. Network automation is aimed at improving service continuity. Among the several possible automation schemes, logic selectivity between protection relays is one of the most effective approach because it allow to reduce the area affected by the fault at the very same time of the event. IEC 61850 provides a standard way to implement automation. The paper describes a laboratory setup where the logic selectivity - based on the IEC 61850 - was tested before moving relays to a real field demonstrator. An analysis of system performance in presence of phase-to-ground fault is reported.