Real-time expert system for fault location on high voltage underground distribution cables

To ensure minimum loss of system security and revenue it is essential that faults on underground cable systems be located and repaired rapidly. Currently in the UK, the impulse current method is used to prelocate faults, prior to using acoustic methods to pinpoint the fault location. The impulse current method is heavily dependent on the engineer´s knowledge and experience in recognising/interpreting the transient waveforms produced by the fault. The development of a prototype real-time expert system and for the prelocation of cable faults is described. Results from the prototype demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of the expert system as an aid for the diagnosis and location of faults on underground cable systems