Optimal Coordination of Directional Overcurrent Relays for Microgrids Using ‎Hybrid Interval Linear Programming - Differential Evolution

Abstract

The relay coordination problem of directional overcurrent has been an active research issue in distribution networks and power transmission. In general, the problem of relay coordination is the nonlinearity of the optimization problem, which increases or decreases with different network structures. This paper presents a new method with directional overcurrent relay coordination approach to reduce the operating time of the relays between the primary and backup relays by using hybrid programming of ILP (interval linear programming) and DE (differential evolution). Due to the difference in short circuit current level from grid connected to the isolated mode, therefore, it is necessary to use a reliable protection solution to reduce this discrimination time and also to prevent the increase of coordination time interval (CTI). The ability of the objective function used in this paper is to reduce the discrimination time of primary and backup relays and simultaneously reduce the operating time of primary and backup relays by introducing a new method. The basic parameters of the directional overcurrent relay (DOCR) such as time multiplier setting (TMS) and plug setting (PS) have been adjusted such that the relays operation time should be optimized. Optimization is based on a new objective function, described as a highly constrained non-linear problem to simultaneously minimize operating time in backup and primary relays. A function of penalty is also used to check the problem constraints in case the backup relay time is fewer than that of the main relay. The method is implemented on modified IEEE 14- and 30-bus distribution networks. The results demonstrate the efficiency of the method, and the values are optimal compared to those of other algorithms. MATLAB program has also been used to simulate optimization.

Keywords

• microgrid
• relay coordination
• directional overcurrent relay
• multi-objective optimization
• interval linear ‎programming
• differential evolution