A new approach for optimal coordination of distance and directional over-current relays using multiple embedded crossover PSO

Proper coordination between distance relays and Directional Over-Current Relays (DOCRs) in power systems is one of the important conditions for the system security. The coordination problem in interconnected systems, because of complexity of the system, is complicated and a powerful optimization program must be used in order to do the best and optimal relay coordination. In this paper at first, a new problem formulation for optimal coordination of distance relays in presence of DOCRs, as the backup relays, is proposed. Then to deal with this complex problem, as another contribution, a new Multiple Embedded Crossover PSO (MECPSO) is proposed. In the presented MECPSO by updating velocity vector, diversity of the swarm is enhanced and exploration and global search capabilities of the PSO is improved as well. In the proposed approach, with considering the effect of in-feed or out-feed currents, the optimal second zone timing of distance relays and optimal settings of DOCRs are computed. The proposed method is tested on two case studies and encouraging optimal results are obtained. (c) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.