Zero-Setting Algorithm for High-Speed Open Line Detection Using Synchrophasors

Abstract

Fast open line detection plays a critical role in ensuring system survivability and preventing wide-area blackouts. The loss of critical assets, such as transmission lines, should be quickly detected and corrective actions initiated through remedial action schemes to preserve system stability. Disturbances, such as line tripping caused by severe faults or breaker misoperation, can cause oscillations in machine rotors, resulting in power swings that affect power system stability. Quick, accurate open line detection is necessary to initiate automated corrective action in time to minimize system impacts and avoid blackouts. The speed and accuracy of existing open line detection methods limit their ability to take fast corrective control actions. This paper proposes a fast, secure, zero-setting algorithm to detect and declare open line conditions using wide-area synchrophasor measurements. Simulation results based on a real industrial system are presented for various transmission line topologies commonly found in high-voltage networks.