Estimation of Fault Location and Fault Resistance for Single Line-to-ground Faults in Multi-ring Distribution Network Using Artificial Neural Network

Abstract

Abstract This article examines the problem of locating single line-to-ground faults, through resistance faults that may occur anywhere in multi-ring electrical distribution networks, which may affect the reliability of power distribution. The developed method is based using artificial neural network techniques as the algorithm to save time in fault location, as well as estimating the value of the fault resistance. This technique is applied to an existing 13.8-kilovolt distribution network, which caters to an oil production field spread over an area of approximately 60 km2. The nature of this distribution system, which consists of a multi-ring configuration, illustrates the complexity of the network. Simulation results for several case studies have shown the feasibility and the effectiveness of the suggested fault location method. Keywords: fault locationsingle line-to-ground faultsartificial neural network applicationfault resistancemulti-ring distribution networkpower system Acknowledgment The authors sincerely acknowledge the financial support of the Research Department of Engineering School at Kuwait University, Research Grant No. EE 02/03.