Graph-Based Faulted Line Identification Using Micro-PMU Data in Distribution Systems

Abstract

Motivated by increasing penetration of distributed generators (DGs) and fast development of micro-phasor measurement units (μPMUs), this paper proposes a novel graph-based faulted line identification algorithm using a limited number of μPMUs in distribution networks. The core of the proposed method is to apply advanced distribution system state estimation (DSSE) techniques integrating μPMU data to the fault location. We propose a distributed DSSE algorithm to efficiently restrict the searching region for the fault source in the feeder between two adjacent μPMUs. Based on the graph model of the feeder in the reduced searching region, we further perform the DSSE in a hierarchical structure and identify the location of the fault source. Also, the proposed approach captures the impact of DGs on distribution system operation and remains robust against high-level noises in measurements. Numerical simulations verify the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method under various fault scenarios covering multiple fault types and fault impedances.