A novel scheme for current-only directional overcurrent relay

Overcurrent relays are widely used as main protection in sub-transmission and distribution systems. In mesh and multi-source networks, application of directional relay is unavoidable. Traditional directional overcurrent relays use the reference voltage phasor as the polarizing quantity to estimate the direction of the fault. Traditional direction distinguishing scheme is unreliable in the case of close-in faults. In this paper, a novel algorithm for directional overcurrent relay is proposed. The new algorithm uses only current signals for determining the fault direction. It uses superimposed component of the current signal and does not require phasor estimation. This new algorithm uses pre-fault current signal as the polarizing quantity. The proposed method is tested on simple power system in different situations. The results show it leads to fast and reliable directional protection.     

The universal overcurrent relay

A comprehensive list of nondirectional overcurrent relays would include thermal overload, inverse-time, definite time, and instantaneous relays. The list could be further classified by operating quantities including individual phase, residual, and negative-sequence current. Taken collectively and depending on the characteristic shape, pickup and time range, and dynamics, these relays span the applications for motor, feeder, and breaker failure protection. Because of the past necessity for using either discrete or specialized system relays, overcurrent characteristics for these applications may appear diverse and unrelated. However, microprocessor relay technology has advanced to where it is not only feasible, but it is of distinct economic advantage, to consider all these characteristics collectively as attributes of a universal overcurrent relay. This universal relay concept is used here to discuss the commonality, the differences, and the coordination of the elements required for feeder, motor, and breaker failure protection. The article goes on to discuss the rules for the coordination of negative-sequence overcurrent characteristics for sensitive phase-to-phase fault protection in feeders, as well as for unbalanced current protection of induction motors     

Coordination of dual setting overcurrent relays in microgrid with optimally determined relay characteristics for dual operating modes

Fault current magnitude in a microgrid depends upon its mode of operation, namely, grid-connected mode or islanded mode. Depending on the type of fault in a given mode, separate protection schemes are generally employed. With the change in microgrid operating mode, the protection scheme needs to be modified which is uneconomical and time inefficient. In this paper, a novel optimal protection coordination scheme is proposed, one which enables a common optimal relay setting which is valid in both operating modes of the microgrid. In this context, a common optimal protection scheme is introduced for dual setting directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) using a combination of various standard relay characteristics. Along with the two variables, i.e., time multiplier setting (TMS) and plug setting (PS) for conventional directional overcurrent relay, dual setting DOCRs are augmented with a third variable of relay characteristics identifier (RCI), which is responsible for selecting optimal relay characteristics from the standard relay characteristics according to the IEC-60255 standard. The relay coordination problem is formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem, and the settings of relays are optimally determined using the genetic algorithm (GA) and the grey wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm. To validate the superiority of the proposed protection scheme, the distribution parts of the IEEE-14 and IEEE-30 bus benchmark systems are considered.     

The study of directional overcurrent relay and directional earth-fault protection application for 33 kV underground cable system in Malaysia

Differential protection scheme is based on comparison of measured variables such as current and voltage at the two ends of a line via a communication channel such as pilot wire. This scheme is preferred and extensively used in distribution feeder protection system in Malaysia due to its fast operation. However pilot-wire differential scheme has its own drawbacks especially on the maintenance of the pilot-wire. Once the plot-wire is out of service, the feeder protection is jeopardised. One of the options to overcome such maintenance issue is to adopt directional relay as the feeder protection. This paper investigates a suitable relay connection and the maximum torque angle for the directional relay for 33 kV underground network. In this study, a section of 33 kV underground network in Kuala Lumpur (KL) city has been analysed. All faults types have been simulated at all possible location in the network. The obtained voltage and current were then used to determine the operation of directional overcurrent and earth-fault relay. The simulation results indicate that 30° relay connection with 0° maximum torque angle (30°/0°) is the most suitable setting to be applied for 33 kV underground network in KL, as against the best general and most versatile setting, 45°/90°.     

Numerical inverse definite minimum time overcurrent relay for microgrid power system protection

Access of distributed generation gets complicated at the distribution level, and hence managing these systems effectively becomes highly challenging. Microgrids have been proposed as a way of integrating a large number of distributed renewable energy sources with a distribution system. They are low to medium voltage networks of small load clusters with distributed generation sources and storages. Microgrids can be operated in the islanded mode or the grid‐connected mode. If a microgrid is connected to the system, it is seen as a single aggregate load. One of the potential advantages of a microgrid is that it could provide more reliable supply to customers by islanding itself from the system in the event of a major disturbance. However, a major problem with microgrid implementation in islanded operation is designing a proper protection scheme. The fault currents for grid‐connected and islanded microgrids are significantly different. Additionally, high penetration of inverter‐connected distributed generation sources leads to conditions where no standard overcurrent protection method will work. Overcurrent protection is considered as the backbone of any protection strategy, especially in distribution systems. Distribution systems constitute the largest portion of the power system network, and therefore the diagnosis of faults in this system is a challenging task. Faults occurring in distribution systems will affect the reliability, security, and quality of a power system. Field‐processable gate array (FPGA) Xilinx Zynq‐based numerical overcurrent relay protection is provided to the microgrid that is operated in islanded mode. This results in faster discrimination and quicker isolation of the faulty section from the microgrid. This improves the reliability of the microgrid because the fault is rapidly diagnosed and isolated from the healthy part, thanks to the high‐speed operation of the 800‐MHz FPGA Xilinx Zynq‐based numerical overcurrent relay. This system is simulated using MATLAB Simulink SimPower system tool box and LabView software. © 2014 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     

Fault Direction Estimation in Radial Distribution System Using Phase Change in Sequence Current

When a remotely sited wind farm is connected to the utility power system through a distribution line, the overcurrent relay at the common coupling point needs a directional feature. This paper presents a method for estimating the direction of fault in such radial distribution systems using phase change in current. The difference in phase angle between the positive-sequence component of the current during fault and prefault conditions has been found to be a good indicator of the fault direction in a three-phase system. A rule base formed for the purpose decides the location of fault with respect to the relay in a distribution system. Such a strategy reduces the cost of the voltage sensor and/or connection for a protection scheme which is of relevance in emerging distributed-generation systems. The algorithm has been tested through simulation for different radial distribution systems.     

Interactive relay coordination using microcomputer graphics

A computer procedure is presented which enables the power system designer to interactively determine tap and time dial settings of overcurrent relays for the protection of industrial power systems. The user enters data about the power system, and a fault analysis is performed. Current transformer ratios, relay types, and load currents are then input to the program and the user selects tripping times or coordinating time intervals. Computer graphics techniques are then used to display the coordination curves and settings may be changed, if necessary, until the desired protection characteristics are achieved. An example of protection design for a sample industrial power system is provided to show the procedures for program use and demonstrate its capabilities.     

A new digital filter directional relay technique using active/reactive power portrait

The present paper discusses some conventional directional relay drawbacks, which are based on the relationship between voltage and current, in order to determine fault direction. In addition, it presents a new fault detection technique based on instantaneous active and reactive energy that is measured and analysed at the relaying point. This energy has a distinct characteristic which is used to distinguish the fault direction. The suggested relay has determined the fault direction in a rather short time after fault occurrence, even in 2–5 ms, depending on the characteristics of the fault generated travelling waves. The algorithm used in this method has been modified in order to improve the performance of the relay. Simulation studies showed that the directional relay based on this new technique has fast speed operation with reliability and dependability.     

基于模糊逻辑的UPFC线路新型正序故障分量方向元件

统一潮流控制器(UPFC)可以灵活控制线路潮流,提高电力系统运行稳定性,但其接入会对线路保护的动作性能产生影响。针对UPFC线路正序故障分量方向元件在反方向故障时易发生误动的问题,提出了基于模糊逻辑的适用于UPFC线路的新型正序故障分量方向元件。首先,通过增加UPFC线路侧电压互感器,与原有的母线电压和线路电流测点组成新型保护单元。在此基础上,对传统方向元件的动作区域进行划分,进而应用模糊逻辑,通过设置合理的隶属度函数、权重和故障方向判据,利用综合隶属度函数实现故障方向的判别。最后,基于PSCAD/EMTDC的大量仿真结果表明,新型方向元件在UPFC不同运行方式、不同故障类型和过渡电阻等条件下,均可正确判别故障方向,保障了UPFC接入后电网的安全可靠运行。     

风场及其送出线保护配置与整定研究

现有风场及其送出线保护多从保障风机或各元件自身安全角度进行简单配置整定,可能存在保护范围不明确,选择性和灵敏性未进行系统校验等问题。结合风电故障特征,给出了风电场提供故障电流最大值的简化计算公式,提出了兼顾风机安全与系统可靠性的风场及送出线保护配置与整定原则。并以吉林某风场为例,尝试给出了风机、箱变、集电线、母线、主变在内的风场及其送出线保护的配置原则,定量化校验了集电线路电流保护配置与整定的合理性。     

Application of a proposed overcurrent relay in radial distribution networks

This paper contains the application criteria and coordination process for a proposed overcurrent relay in a radial power system with feed from one or multiple sources. This relay uses independent functions to detect faults and to calculate the operation time. Also this relay uses a time element function that allows it to reduce the time relay operation, enhancing the backup protection. Some of the proposed approaches improve the sensitivity of the relay. The selection of the best approach in the proposed relay is defined by the needs of the application. The proposed protection can be considered as an additional function protection to conventional overcurrent relays.     

Optimal computation of distance relays second zone timing in amixed protection scheme with directional overcurrent relays

This paper describes a technique to determine the optimal time setting for the second zone of distance relays when used in a mixed protection scheme with directional overcurrent relays. The technique consists of including the second zone operation time as a new variable in the original problem statement of optimal computation of directional overcurrent relays settings. It is shown that the influence of distance relays and directional overcurrent relays must be considered when the settings of these relays are computed. Numerical results obtained with the proposed method for a realistic power system are presented     

对110 kV零序方向电流保护方向正确性的讨论

就不同类型零序方向电流保护的方向正确性进行讨论。阐述了中性点直接接地系统单相接地短路时零序电压、零序电流、零序功率的特点,对常规零序方向保护和微机型零序方向保护的原理进行了对比分析,指出LG12型功率方向继电器以及WXH-11型、CSL-160型零序方向保护中零序功率方向的正确接线方式。     

变压器相间过流保护不正确动作原因的探讨

针对某110kV变电站中变压器复压闭锁方向过流保护的不正确动作情况,通过对事故过程中的故障信息分析,并结合现场的模拟试验,找出了保护不正确动作的原因,传统的90°接线方式方向元件在某些特殊的故障时,会造成相间过流保护不正确动作。对故障时方向元件的向量图进行了详细的分析,并提出了解决方案。     

方向电流保护的整定对灵敏度及可靠性的影响

为提高供电的可靠性,需要采用方向电流继电保护,并且灵敏度要高。探讨了方向电流保护的整定对灵敏度及可靠性的影响,包括谐波、功率方向继电器等的影响,还探讨了一些新的整定计算方法及灵敏度、可靠性研究方面的新动向。方向电流保护的整定除满足电流整定一般原则外,还应考虑负荷电流突然增大、故障电流零序分量及与相邻线路保护的灵敏系数配合等因素。另外,可优先采用在线整定。方向继电器的内角需合理整定。谐波滤除中数字滤波器应用越来越多,较快的滤波算法意味着实时性好、可靠性高。     

Time overcurrent adaptive relay

In this paper we recommend an inverse time overcurrent adaptive relay. This adaptive relay has a greater sensitivity and reduced operating times using only the information available at the relay's site. We herein describe the functional structure of the overcurrent adaptive relay, its implementation and the results obtained in laboratory tests with real time acquired signals.     

Directional overcurrent and earth-fault protections for a biomass microgrid system in Malaysia

Over-current protection is principally intended to counteract excessive current in power systems. In distribution systems in Malaysia, non-directional over-current protection is adopted because of the radial nature of the power system used. Relay typically used in distribution network are designed to cater for current flow in one direction, i.e., from transmission network to load. However, with the forecasted increase in generation from renewable sources, it is important that adequate codes are in place with regards to their integration to sub-transmission/distribution network. Distribution network dynamically changes from “passive” to “active” network. With distributed generation connected to distribution network, power flows bi-directionally. Hence, directional over-current protection is adopted along the line between the transmission grid and the distributed generation. The bi-directional flow of power also complicates the earth fault protection. This is due to the presence of the distributed generation that will cause the line near the delta side of the transformer to be still energized after the operation of earth fault relay during single-phase-to-ground-fault. This paper investigates the directional over-current and earth fault protections used to protect the microgrid (biomass generator) in Malaysia. In this study, under-voltage relays are adopted at the delta side of the transformer to fully clear the single-line-to-ground fault, which cannot be cleared by earth fault relay. Three-phase-balanced fault and single-line-to-ground-fault at all possible locations in the network have been simulated. Simulation shows good coordination and discrimination between over-current relays.     

基于双馈风机短路特性的风电场集电线路继电保护整定方法研究

目前的定值整定工作中往往将风电场作为负荷或常规电源进行分析计算,已经导致了多起事故,因此深入研究风电场的故障特征以及对系统继电保护的影响显得非常重要。首先,在双馈风机短路等值参数模型的基础上,研究了风机短路特性对集电线路保护的影响和集电线路继电保护整定值整定方法。其次,充分考虑了风机短路故障电流的影响,并提出了一套完整的集电线路系统继电保护定值整定方法。该方法分析了三相短路和两相短路的短路电流,提出了集电线路相间过电流保护和汇集线接地故障的零序电流保护的整定原则和计算过程。该策略避免了风机发生故障时产生的过电流对下游集电线路继电保护装置造成冲击和误动,目前已经在实际风电场得到了应用,验证了该方法的有效性。     

Simulation of protective relay performance under short-circuit andtransient swing conditions

Most methods of relay coordination are based on fixed values of fault current for setting protective relays, regardless of the fact that fault currents are time-dependent. The results of alternative transient calculation procedures are presented. These take into consideration the decay of current with time and can therefore be used to identify the sensitivity of the coordination setting and potential cases of difficulty. Comparison of the static and dynamic short-circuit calculation procedures shows that the dynamic procedure, with enhanced machine modeling, produces results that agree well with national standards and minimizes the engineering design effort, with only a small increase in computational overhead. The results presented are used to compare calculated time overcurrent relay settings and tripping times, based on the dynamic short-circuit calculation, with fault clearing times obtained by modeling the relays using a traditional step-by-step dynamic analysis procedure. These two methods of calculation yield results that are in close agreement. It is also shown that inclusion of protection setting and transient modeling facilities in power system CAD packages offers the opportunity to include automatically and reliably the effect of the protection in any subsequent transient studies of the system     

Comprehensive coordination of combined directional overcurrent and distance relays considering miscoordination reduction

This paper presents a novel approach to solve the miscoordination problem of combined directional overcurrent and distance relays in transmission and subtransmission systems. In order to reduce relays miscoordinations, a general objective function is presented to find optimum directional overcurrent relays time setting multipliers, characteristics, and pickup currents by optimization algorithms. In previous researches, different approaches have been presented but they cannot find a reliable solution to avoid from having negative discrimination times between the backup and main relay (miscoordination), which means operation of the backup relay before the main relay. Using proposed approach, not only the number of miscoordinations can be greatly decreased but also the positive discrimination times can be minimized. The proposed method is tested on 9-bus and 39-bus test system. Genetic algorithm and human behavior-based optimization are used as optimization tools to find optimum settings. The results indicate that the proposed approach is capable of solving the miscoordination problem, in addition to minimization of discrimination and relay operation times compared with previous approaches.