New settings-free fault location algorithm based on synchronised sampling

This study presents a new numerical algorithm for fault location on transmission lines. It does not require line parameters, it is settings-free, which is a radical step forward compared to the existing approaches that require this information. Line parameters are only approximately constant, they differ as the loading and weather conditions vary; this affects the accuracy of the existing fault location algorithms. Thus, an approach that does not require line parameters would be more robust, accurate, flexible and cost-effective than those approaches that do require line parameter information to determine the location of the fault. This is essential for the fast and secure elimination of faults on transmission lines; consequently, the solution leads to a significant improvement in the quality of the energy supply. The new algorithm is based on the emerging synchronised measurement technology, using synchronised data sampling at both line terminals. The study presents the algorithm derivation and the results of thorough testing using the ATP-EMTP simulations. © 2011 The Institution of Engineering and Technology.