A BP Neural Network Based Technique for HIF Detection and Location on Distribution Systems with Distributed Generation

High Impedance Faults (HIF) are faults of difficult detection and location while using traditional digital relaying. In this article it is presented a new proposal for detection and location of HIF’s in distribution systems with distributed generation (DG), based on artificial neural networks. The methodology inputs are the local measured voltage and current phase components, supplying as output the detection, classification and location of the fault, when it occurs. The basic characteristics, the algorithm and comparative tests with other detection and location methodologies are presented in this article. The proposed scheme was tested in a simulation platform of a distribution system with DG. The comparative results of the technique with usual fault detection and location schemes show the high efficiency and robustness of the method.