Abstract:
The large-scale integration of distributed generation (DG) limits the applicability of existing fault location methods in distribution networks. To address this issue, this paper proposes a fault section location method based on micro-synchrophasor measurement units (μPMUs) for distribution networks with DGs. First, the placement and number of μPMUs were optimized to minimize the total configuration cost while accounting for operational economy, fault observability, and fault location requirements. Then, based on the distribution network topology model, the fault domain was divided into DG and non-DG regions. For faults in DG regions, the phase-angle difference method was used to identify the faults, and the location of the faulty DG section was reported directly. For faults in non-DG regions, the suspected fault region was first preliminarily identified based on abrupt voltage changes. Subsequently, the precise fault section was determined through an exhaustive search using the single-ended impedance method in combination with the distribution characteristics of positive-sequence voltages at both ends. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified using the IEEE 33-bus distribution network model on the PSCAD/EMTDC simulation platform. The proposed method has broad application prospects in fault monitoring and protection for smart distribution networks.