Transient current correlation based single phase earth fault location for distribution automation

This paper presents a single phase earth fault location technique for distribution automation in a non-effectively earthed network based on the transient current correlation. By comparing the similarities of zero mode transient current at each section of faulty feeder, which is measured by FTUs (Feeder Terminal Units), the faulty section can be identified. The correlation coefficient between the transient currents at both ends of a feeder section is close to 1 for the healthy section and 0 for the faulty section. The theoretical principle was analyzed in detail. The feasibility of the method was proved by ATP simulation and field test results.