Fault location method for distribution networks using 37-buses distributed parameter line model

This paper presents a new fault location technique for distribution networks, which uses distributed parameter line model in its power frequency based algorithm. The technique therefore accounts for the line shunt capacitance, which is a major source of error in conventional impedance based methods, particularly in cable networks. The technique was initially intended for cable networks, but it can easily be applied to overhead or even mixed cable and overhead networks. The proposed method has been simulated and studied for different fault conditions by using the Electromagnetic Transient Program (EMTP) for the IEEE 37-buses standard cable networks, showing very accurate fault location results presented in the paper.