Early Detection of Single-Phase Ground Faults in the Operating 10 kV Network with Overhead Power Lines Based on IEC 61850 SV-Flow Data

Abstract

Electrical networks of 6-20 kV are quite numerous and extensive. One of the serious problems with distribution networks is their high susceptibility to damage and poor observability. The most common type of fault in such networks is a single-phase ground fault (SGF). Such faults in 6-10 kV networks are easily detected using voltage measuring transformers. However, locating the SGF requires the installation of specialized fixed relay protection and automation devices (RPA) or the use of portable devices. Unfortunately, this requires significant investment: in the former case-for fault location devices and measuring transformers; in the latter case it requires the time of electrical network personnel to inspect the faulted line. Furthermore, the fault location methods (FLM) used in stationary devices require careful configuration by highly qualified personnel to the specific parameters of the electrical network, while portable devices require considerable time to locate the fault, which increases the likelihood of a SGF developing into a phase-To-phase short circuit and creates the risk of electric shock to people and animals. In practice, most 6-10 kV networks have only devices for detecting SGF, while fault location is performed manually, through sequential short-Term shutdowns of individual network sections with "ground loss"monitoring.