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The optimal coordination of overcurrent relays (OCRs) has recently become a major challenge owing to the ever-increasing participation of distributed generation (DG) and the multi-looped structure of modern distribution networks (DNs). Furthermore, the changeable operational topologies of microgrids has increased the complexity and computational burden to obtain the optimal settings of OCRs. In this context, classical approaches to OCR coordination might no longer be sufficient to provide a reliable performance of microgrids both in the islanded and grid-connected operational modes. This paper proposes a novel approach for optimal coordination of directional OCRs in microgrids. This approach consists of considering the upper limit of the plug setting multiplier (PSM) as a variable instead of a fixed parameter as usually done in traditional approaches for OCRs coordination. A genetic algorithm (GA) was implemented to optimize the limits of the maximum PSM for the OCRs coordination. Several tests were performed with an IEC microgrid benchmark network considering several operational modes. Results showed the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed approach. A comparison with other studies reported in the specialized literature is provided showing the advantages of the proposed approach.

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Unbalanced operation of distribution systems deteriorates power quality andincreases investment and operation costs. Feeder reconfiguration and phaseswapping are the two main approaches for load balancing, being the formermore difficult to execute due to the reduced number of sectionalizing switchesavailable in most distribution systems. On the other hand, phase swappingconstitutes a direct, effective and low cost alternative for load balancing. The main contribution of this paper is the proposal of an optimization model anda solution technique for phase balancing planning in distribution systems. Asregards the optimization model, a mixed integer nonlinear programming formulationis proposed. On the other hand, the proposed solution techniqueconsists on a specialized genetic algorithm. To show the effectiveness of theproposed approach, several tests are carried out with two distribution systemsof 37 and 19 buses, this last one with different load models. Results showedthat in addition to the achievement of the primary objective of loss reduction,phase balancing allows obtaining other technical benefits such as improvementof voltage profile and alleviation of congested lines.

Directional overcurrent elements, both phase and ground, are widely used as backup protection for transmission lines in interconnected power systems around the world. Traditionally, the specialized literature has focused on the determination of the time dial settings of such elements for improving selectivity, as well as the polarization method to be used, for improving security; leaving the directional characteristic settings, and more specifically, the determination of the directional characteristic angle, to the application of the so-called typical settings. This setting, most commonly known as Maximum Torque Angle (MTA) or Relay Characteristic Angle (RCA), is the basis for the direction determination algorithm. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to establish a methodology for its proper calculation. The main contribution of this paper is an alternative methodology to stablish the MTA/RCA settings of directional overcurrent relays, by using a detailed shortcircuit sensitivity analysis and a non-linear optimization technique. The application of this novel approach on real complex transmission systems increases the reliability of directional overcurrent protection elements, and has shown that the values required by the actual fault conditions of the transmission system could present a large deviation from the so-called typical settings.

This paper presents an alternative constraint handling approach within a specialized genetic algorithm (SGA) for the optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) problem. The ORPD is formulated as a nonlinear single-objective optimization problem aiming at minimizing power losses while keeping network constraints. The proposed constraint handling approach is based on a product of sub-functions that represents permissible limits on system variables and that includes a specific goal on power loss reduction. The main advantage of this approach is the fact that it allows a straightforward verification of both feasibility and optimality. The SGA is examined and tested with the recommended constraint handling approach and the traditional penalization of deviations from feasible solutions. Several tests are run in the IEEE 30, 57, 118 and 300 bus test power systems. The results obtained with the proposed approach are compared to those offered by other metaheuristic techniques reported in the specialized literature. Simulation results indicate that the proposed genetic algorithm with the alternative constraint handling approach yields superior solutions when compared to other recently reported techniques.

ABSTRACT:This paper proposes a model of the bridgeless PFC (Power Factor Correction) boost rectifier for control purposes based on an averaged small-signal analysis. From circuital laws, four operation modes are defined and explained, ensuring a relationship of physical variables in the converter. Based on the proposed model, two-loop cascade control structures composed of Proportional-Integral (PI) lineal controllers are proposed. Design consideration for dimensioning reactive elements is included, providing minimum values for their inductance and capacitance. Implementation of a laboratory prototype of 900 W and experimental results are presented to validate and reaffirm the proposed model. Experimental results demonstrate that the use of the bridgeless PFC boost converter model allows the Power Factor (PF) to be elevated up to 0.99, to reduce the THD i (Total Harmonic Distortion of the Current) to 3.9% and to control the DC voltage level on output. Compliance of standards of power quality EN 61000-3-2 (IEC 1000-3-2) are experimentally verified.

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