Fault Direction Estimation in Radial Distribution System Using Phase Change in Sequence Current

When a remotely sited wind farm is connected to the utility power system through a distribution line, the overcurrent relay at the common coupling point needs a directional feature. This paper presents a method for estimating the direction of fault in such radial distribution systems using phase change in current. The difference in phase angle between the positive-sequence component of the current during fault and prefault conditions has been found to be a good indicator of the fault direction in a three-phase system. A rule base formed for the purpose decides the location of fault with respect to the relay in a distribution system. Such a strategy reduces the cost of the voltage sensor and/or connection for a protection scheme which is of relevance in emerging distributed-generation systems. The algorithm has been tested through simulation for different radial distribution systems.