Evaluation of simple Fault Location on a MV Feeder with DG, using Fundamental Frequency Components

Abstract

This paper looks into possibilities for locating short circuit faults on a MV feeder with distributed generation (DG). Power frequency measurements of voltages and currents are utilized for estimating the distance to the fault location. Loads and infeed current from generators connected to the feeder induce errors in the estimated distance. In the paper, methods to compensate for these errors are investigated. The goal is good enough fault location with limited information from the feeder. To be able to compensate for DG-infeed during various load conditions, measurements in the DG-node is necessary, in addition to the substation measurements. DG-node measurements are also utilized for discriminating between faults on the main and on a lateral branch. The paper is based on simulations and analytical calculations.