Fault locator comparison tool and designer for distribution network

Abstract

Fault location research in compensated network has led to several ideas; from the classic use of the steady state to the use of the charging transient. This paper treats the steady state signal and several algorithms to get the best accuracy for a specific feeder in this kind of network. A tool to compare the different algorithm is presented. Regarding the different topologies available in a distribution networks, the radial, the loop and distributed loads are compared and the sensitivity of each algorithm is computed using Monte Carlo simulations and linearization of the error. The algorithms studied use one or several measurements and can estimate the load consumption by using the pre fault signal. General conclusions are taken about the classic topology with the algorithms using steady state for fault location in compensated network.