Novel Earth Fault Protection Algorithm Based on MV Cable Screen Zero Sequence Current Filter

Abstract

This paper presents novel zero sequence current filter and earth fault protection relay, which utilize cable screens earthing current in protection algorithm. Different problems connected with state of the art of zero sequence current filters and protection relays are presented and compared with the proposed solution. The presented concept is verified in PowerFactory simulation software, experiment concerning modeling the earth fault current flow in medium voltage (MV) cable supplied from the low voltage (LV) network and measurements in the MV network in the Polish distribution system. The proposed solution is characterized by higher sensitivity and reduced number of erroneous trips. The presented solution is suitable for any MV cable lines. Biggest advantages are observed in power output lines from renewable energy sources, which are often operated under no-load conditions.

Keywords

• cable screen
• earthing system
• zero sequence filters/transformers
• protection relays
• current measurement