Power Quality Disturbance Tracking Based on a Proprietary FPGA Sensor with GPS Synchronization

The study of power quality (PQ) has gained relevance over the years due to the increase in non-linear loads connected to the grid. Therefore, it is important to study the propagation of power quality disturbances (PQDs) to determine the propagation points in the grid, and their source of generation. Some papers in the state of the art perform the analysis of punctual measurements of a limited number of PQDs, some of them using high-cost commercial equipment. The proposed method is based upon a developed proprietary system, composed of a data logger FPGA with GPS, that allows the performance of synchronized measurements merged with the full parameterized PQD model, allowing the detection and tracking of disturbances propagating through the grid using wavelet transform (WT), fast Fourier transform (FFT), Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT), genetic algorithms (GAs), and particle swarm optimization (PSO). Measurements have been performed in an industrial installation, detecting the propagation of three PQDs: impulsive transients propagated at two locations in the grid, voltage fluctuation, and harmonic content propagated to all the locations. The results obtained show that the low-cost system and the developed methodology allow the detection of several PQDs, and track their propagation within a grid with 100% accuracy.

Optimal fault location for power distribution systems with distributed generations using synchronized measurements

Accurate fault location in distribution systems greatly shortens maintenance time and improves reliability. This paper presents novel methods to pinpoint fault location and identify possible bad measurements for enhanced accuracy. It is assumed that network parameters and topology of the distribution network are available. The methods are applicable to a single fault as well as simultaneous faults and are applicable to both balanced and unbalanced networks. The methods utilize synchronized voltage and current phasor measurements to locate the fault. The methods are validated by simulation studies using the modified IEEE 34-Node Test System. Case studies have demonstrated that the methods are suitable for distribution systems with high penetration of distributed generations.