Fault location based on variable mode decomposition and kurtosis calibration in distribution networks

There are many affected factors for the traditional traveling wave detection method applied to distribution networks, and the wave head calibration needs to be more accurate. This paper proposes a new method for fault location in resonant grounding systems based on variable modal decomposition (VMD) and kurtosis calibration. Firstly, the feeder currents are collected for phase mode transformation to obtain the aerial mode components. Secondly, the VMD algorithm decomposes the aerial mode components into several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Then, the discrete kurtosis is calculated for the high-frequency IMF, and the moment of maximum kurtosis value is determined as the first arrival moment of the faulty wave head. Finally, the faulty section is preliminarily determined using the calibrated moments of the head and end devices of the main line. If the fault is located on the main line, the fault location is determined directly. If it is located on a branch line, the distance of the fault is calculated using the wave head between the head and branch line ends to achieve a precise location. The PSCAD simulation results show that the proposed method can accurately calibrate the arrival moment of the fault wave head and achieve fault location. It is not affected by the fault location and the initial angle of the fault.

Automated summary

This paper proposes a new fault location method for resonant grounding systems based on variable modal decomposition (VMD) and kurtosis calibration. The proposed method accurately calibrates the arrival moment of the fault wave head and achieves precise fault location. The method is not affected by the fault location and the initial angle of the fault, as shown by PSCAD simulation results.