A novel method for optimum fault current limiter placement using particle swarm optimization algorithm

Abstract

Summary Connection of distributed generation to the grid and the expansion of transmission system in order to meet the growing for electricity are causing the extent and complexity of the network structure. The occurrence of fault in such networks leads to flow large short circuit currents through the system, which may exceed the rating of existing circuit breakers and can damage system equipment. The utilization of fault current limiters (FCLs) in power systems can be an effective method to limit fault currents. FCLs can offer many benefits, but these benefits depend on the number, installation location, and impedance of FCL. In this paper, determining the number, location, and impedance of FCLs in network is modeled as a new optimization problem when objective functions are reliability, power loss, and economical use of FCLs. Also, a combination of discrete and continuous particle swarm optimization algorithm is employed to solve problem. Modified RBTS 2 bus test system is considered to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method. Obtained results show the importance of finding optimum number, location, and impedance of FCLs in minimization of the proposed objective functions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Analysis of the effect of location and failure rates of fault current limiters on substations reliability

“…The failure rate of Bs depends on several factors, such as worn, degraded operation, arcing, and fault current. If λ B Fault current is the failure rate that occurs because of fault current passing through B, then reduction of fault current results in a decrease in the B's failure rate, because the λ B Fault current is removed . If λ i is the failure rate of the i th component shown by Equation , then α i .…”

“…In other studies, the effects of using an FCL over network protection have been investigated while in Didier et al, the effects of FCL and its impedance type on increasing stability have been explained. In many articles, the effects of FCL on system reliability have been discussed . Although in the mentioned references, efforts have been made by the authors to evaluate the system reliability by using FCL, there are approximations and limitations that can reduce calculation accuracy.…”

“…These limitations are as follows: Adding any component to the system can change the system's reliability because of its failure rate. In a number of studies, it is assumed that the FCLs are completely reliable and their failure rate has been ignored in the calculations. The fault current reduction due to using FCL can reduce thermal and mechanical tensions on the network components . This may reduce the failure rate of the components .…”

“…In a number of studies, it is assumed that the FCLs are completely reliable and their failure rate has been ignored in the calculations. The fault current reduction due to using FCL can reduce thermal and mechanical tensions on the network components . This may reduce the failure rate of the components . In a number of studies, the effect of FCL on the failure rate reduction of other components has been ignored. Location of FCL and also fault position at the substation can affect the amount of fault current passing through the components.…”

“…Therefore, depending on the FCL location in the substation, failure rate reduction of components is different. This effect is not clearly determined in a number of studies A good research has considered the effect of FCL on the active failure rate and stuck mode probability of other components .…”