Automated Fault Analysis Using Intelligent Techniques and Synchronized Sampling

* Department of Electrical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3128, USA Summary: This paper describes a new concept of automated fault analysis where fault transients and changes in power system equipment contacts are processed on-line. This allows faster confirmation of correct equipment operation and detection of unexpected equipment operations, as well as increased accuracy of fault location and analysis. In addition, the paper gives three independent utility examples that required automating some aspect of the fault analysis process. One approach is the substation level analysis, where local digital fault recorder (DFR) data is processed at the substation to obtain accurate fault location and analysis. Another approach is DFR data analysis at the master station location, where all DFR data files from remote locations are concentrated and processed. Finally, an example of a highly accurate fault location system for series compensated lines using global positioning system (GPS) synchronization is presented. This paper presents summary of the main accomplishments for each of the projects.