Enhanced Detection of High Impedance Faults in Smart Distribution Networks Using Differential Energy Indicators

Andi Syarifuddin, salmiah salmiah, M. Anas Masa, Syahrul Syahrul, Nurul Nurul, Hariani Ma’tang Pakka

Abstract


The detection of high impedance faults (HIFs) plays a crucial role in modern active distribution systems to prevent risks like equipment failures, fire incidents, and disruptions in service, while maintaining a stable power supply. HIFs are challenging to detect due to their low-magnitude and fluctuating fault currents, often falling below the detection thresholds of conventional protection mechanisms. These undetected faults can result in significant safety hazards, economic losses, and compromised system reliability. This study presents an enhanced HIF detection method leveraging differential energy indicators derived from positive-sequence current components during fault events. The proposed approach improves fault detection accuracy and discriminates HIFs from nonfault transients, including load switching, capacitor switching, and nonlinear load effects. The method was validated through simulations on adapted IEEE-13 and IEEE-34 bus systems distribution networks with high distributed generation (DG) penetration. Results demonstrated faster response times (<48 ms), robustness against noise disturbances (up to 6 dB SNR), and consistent performance across varying sampling rates. Unlike heuristic methods requiring extensive data training, this approach reduces computational complexity, making it both economical and scalable for practical implementation. Real-time testing using RTDS and dSPACE platforms further confirmed the method’s feasibility and superior performance compared to existing techniques. By enhancing detection speed, accuracy, and reliability, this advanced HIF detection technique offers a robust solution for addressing the challenges of modern smart distribution networks, contributing to safer and more efficient power delivery systems.

Keywords


High-impedance faults, smart distribution networks, fault detection, differential energy indicators, real-time simulation, power system protection

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.33387/protk.v12i2.9397

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