Identifying Single-Phase-to-Ground Fault Feeder in Neutral Noneffectively Grounded Distribution System Using Wavelet Transform

A scheme of single-phase-to-ground fault feeder identification in distribution networks with the application of a wavelet transform technique is presented in this paper. The scheme uses zero-sequence current traveling waves to identify the faulted feeder, and the busbar residual voltage to determine an event caused by fault or switch operation. The current traveling waves measured by zero-sequence current transducers are decomposed using wavelet multiresolution analysis. The local modulus maxima of the wavelet transform are extracted to determine the time of the initial traveling wave. The wavelet transforms on all feeders at the time are compared in magnitude and polarity with each other to identify the faulted feeder. The feeder identification is independent of the network neutral-point grounding mode. The proposed scheme was implemented and verified using Electromagnetic Transients Program (EMTP)-generated signals. The scheme proved to be robust against transients generated during normal events, such as feeder energizing and de-energizing as well as capacitor bank switching.