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Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks

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A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "F: Electrical Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2020) | Viewed by 28167

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Prof. Dr. Grigoris K. Papagiannis

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School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
Interests: transient analysis of power systems; simulation of electromagnetic transients in transmission and distribution networks; earth conductance effects in overhead and underground transmission lines; powerline communication; smart grids; dynamics in active distribution networks; smart communities and cities
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Prof. Dr. Theofilos A. Papadopoulos

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Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece
Interests: earth conduction effects in overhead lines and cable systems; modelling and analysis of electromagnetic transients; electromagnetic compatibility and transmission line modeling; power line communication; power systems load and active distribution network modeling; application of system identification techniques to power systems; integration of buildings into smart grids
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The simulation of power system transients and dynamics is a key aspect for the investigation of different issues, e.g. design, operation and post-mortem analysis. Traditionally, the simulation of electromagnetic transients (EMTs) and the analysis of the dynamic performance of power systems mostly concerned transmission networks. However, the increasing penetration of renewable energy sources, the wide utilization of power electronics, the integration of smart grid technologies and the installation of new measuring devices, e.g. phasor measurement units, in modern distribution networks have introduced new challenges that have to be addressed with novel simulation methods and models.

In this Special Issue, we invite original submissions of new research outcomes that highlight advances and breakthroughs in the areas of simulation, modeling and analysis of transients and dynamics in modern distribution networks. Topics of interests include, but are not limited to, the following:

Simulation of power system EMTs in distribution systems
Interfacing of EMT simulation programs with transient stability and other simulation programs
Electromagnetic compatibility and transmission line modeling
Power line communication
Distribution substation modelling for EMT simulations
Fault location methods for distribution networks
New dynamic modeling techniques and stability analysis of active distribution networks
Application of measurement-based system identification approaches for mode identification and dynamic equivalencing
Modeling and numerical techniques of power electronics to improve the dynamic performance of active distribution networks
Dynamic behaviour of distribution networks with TSO/DSO interactions

Prof. Grigoris K. Papagiannis
Prof. Theofilos Papadopoulos
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

Electromagnetic transients
Numerical analysis of power systems
Electromagnetic compatibility
Active distribution networks
Power system dynamics
Stability analysis
Dynamic equivalencing
System identification
Power line communication
Fault location methods

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

29 pages, 17977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Closed-Form Expressions for the Analysis of Wave Propagation in Overhead Distribution Lines

by Theofilos A. Papadopoulos, Andreas I. Chrysochos, Christos K. Traianos and Grigoris Papagiannis

Energies 2020, 13(17), 4519; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13174519 - 01 Sep 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2651

Abstract

The calculation of the influence of the imperfect earth on overhead conductors is an important issue in power system analysis. Rigorous solutions contain infinite integrals; thus, due to their complex form, different simplified closed-form expressions have been proposed in the literature. This paper presents a detailed analysis of the effect of different closed-form expressions on the investigation of the wave propagation of distribution overhead lines (OHLs). A sensitivity analysis is applied to determine the most important properties influencing the calculation of the OHL parameters. The accuracy of several closed-form earth impedance models is evaluated as well as the influence of the displacement current and imperfect earth on the shunt admittance, which are further employed in the calculation of the propagation characteristics of OHLs. The frequency-dependence of the soil electrical properties, as well as the application of different modal decomposition algorithms, are also investigated. Finally, results on the basis of frequency-domain signal scans and time-domain electromagnetic transient responses are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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19 pages, 4279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reflected Traveling Wave Based Single-Ended Fault Location in Distribution Networks

by Yangang Shi, Tao Zheng and Chang Yang

Energies 2020, 13(15), 3917; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13153917 - 31 Jul 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2486

Abstract

Traveling wave (TW)-based fault-location methods have been used to determine single-phase-to-ground fault distance in power-distribution networks. The previous approaches detected the arrival time of the initial traveling wave via single ended or multi-terminal measurements. Regarding the multi-branch effect, this paper utilized the reflected waves to obtain multiple arriving times through single ended measurement. Potential fault sections were estimated by searching for the possible traveling wave propagation paths in accordance with the structure of the distribution network. This approach used the entire propagation of a traveling wave measured at a single end without any prerequisite of synchronization, which is a must in multi-terminal measurements. The uniqueness of the fault section was guaranteed by several independent single-ended measurements. Traveling waves obtained in a real 10 kV distribution network were used to determine the fault section, and the results demonstrate the significant effectiveness of the proposed method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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15 pages, 4961 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Algorithm for Circuit Parameter Identification in Lightning Impulse Voltage Generation for Low-Inductance Loads

by Piyapon Tuethong, Krit Kitwattana, Peerawut Yutthagowith and Anantawat Kunakorn

Energies 2020, 13(15), 3913; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13153913 - 31 Jul 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2053

Abstract

This paper presents an effective technique based on an artificial neural network algorithm utilized for circuit parameter identification in lightning impulse generation for low inductance loads such as low voltage windings of a power transformer, a large distribution transformer and an air core reactor. The limitation of the combination between Glaninger’s circuit and the circuit parameter selection from Feser’s suggestions in term of producing an impulse waveform to be compliant with standard requirements when working with a low inductance load is discussed. In Feser’s approach, the circuit parameters of the generation circuit need to be further adjusted to obtain the waveform compliant with the standard requirement. In this process, trial and error approaches based on test engineers’ experience are employed in the circuit parameter selection. To avoid the unintentional damage from electrical field stress during the voltage waveform adjustment process, circuit simulators, such as Pspice and EMTP/ATP, are very useful to examine the generated voltage waveform before the experiments on the test object are carried out. In this paper, a system parameter identification based on an artificial neural network algorithm is applied to determine the appropriate circuit parameters in the test circuit. This impulse voltage generation with the selected circuit parameters was verified by simulations and an experiment. It was found that the generation circuit gives satisfactory impulse voltage waveforms in accordance with the standard requirement for the maximum charging capacitance of 10 µF and the load inductance from 400 µH to 4 mH. From the simulation and experimental results of all cases, the approach proposed in this paper is useful for test engineers in selection of appropriate circuit components for impulse voltage tests with low inductance loads instead of employing conventional trial and error in circuit component selection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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23 pages, 29285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Filtered Spark Gap on the Lightning Protection of Distribution Transformers: Experimental and Simulation Study

by Mahdi Pourakbari-Kasmaei, Farhan Mahmood, Michal Krbal, Ludek Pelikan, Jaroslava Orságová, Petr Toman and Matti Lehtonen

Energies 2020, 13(15), 3799; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13153799 - 24 Jul 2020

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2804

Abstract

Protection of transformers, as one of the most expensive equipment in the power system, against lightning overvoltage impulses is a vital task. This paper, for the first time so far, investigates the effects of a filtered spark gap on the protection level of transformers against lightning overvoltage impulses. The filter is an inductor that is placed in series with the transformer and before the spark gap aiming to reduce the voltage at the connection point of the spark gap, and hence, enhancing the protection level of the transformer under lightning overvoltages. The experimental laboratory tests are accomplished on a 400 kVA, 22/0.4 kV, Delta-Star (

Δ - Y

) connection type transformer under 110 kV, and 125 kV overvoltage impulses, whereas the size of the spark gap is set to 80 mm and two inductors of 35

μ H

and 119

μ H

are considered. In order to perform a more in-depth analysis, a model that works reasonably close to the empirical case is developed in the EMTP-RV software. An optimization algorithm is used to determine the sensitive parameters of the double-exponential function, which is used to reproduce the applied laboratory lightning impulse voltages in the EMTP-RV environment. Moreover, the transformer is modeled according to the Cigre Guidelines (Working Group 02 of Study Committee 33). The behavior of the spark gap is simulated as close as the practical situation using the disruptive effect method. The preciseness of the simulated filtered spark gap model is verified by comparing the results of the simulated model in the EMTP-RV with the results of experimental tests. After verifying the model, different sizes of inductors are studied in the EMTP-RV environment to investigate whether larger or smaller inductors provide better protection for the transformer under lightning conditions. A comparison is performed among the conventional spark gap, surge arrester, and the filtered spark gap to provide a better analysis of the potential of the proposed device. The results indicate that proper sizing of the inductor, within an effective range, slightly enhances the protection level of the transformer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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14 pages, 4145 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Analysis and Mitigation on Switching Transients of Medium-Voltage Low-Harmonic Filter Banks

by Joon-Ho Kim and Jin-O Kim

Energies 2020, 13(9), 2187; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13092187 - 01 May 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3119

Abstract

This paper presents the switching transients of medium-voltage low-harmonic filter banks, which have alower back-to-back inrush current and higher transient recovery voltage (TRV) compared with capacitor banks. The switching transients of the filter banks are described by the analytical approach and field measurements for 150 MVA back-to-back filter banks are provided to support the switching phenomena described in this paper. As a mitigation measure of the high transient recovery voltage, a double-breaker type switchgear is analyzed in terms of the operating sequence and the time of the upper and lower breakers. From the analyses, an operation scheme for the double-breaker switchgear is proposed to avoid insulation failure of the breaker during the interruption by mitigating the transient recovery voltage across each breaker. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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23 pages, 1545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodology for Analysis of Electric Distribution Network Criticality Due to Direct Lightning Discharges

by Raphael Pablo de Souza Barradas, Gabriel Vianna Soares Rocha, João Rodrigo Silva Muniz, Ubiratan Holanda Bezerra, Marcus Vinícius Alves Nunes and Jucileno Silva e Silva

Energies 2020, 13(7), 1580; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13071580 - 01 Apr 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2735

Abstract

Direct lightning discharges in overhead distribution networks invariably cause serious insulation damage, frequently leading to the electric system’s partial or total shutdown. Installing lightning arresters can be very effective, and it is commonly used to minimize this problem; however, considering that typically, electric distribution grids exhibit a very large number of electrical nodes, the massive use of lightning arresters may not be economically viable. In this way, this article proposes a methodology for allocating lightning arresters that can significantly reduce the number of lightning arresters installed, but at the same time maintaining an adequate protection level for the distribution grid. The proposed methodology, named Direct Discharge Crossing (DDC), analyzes the network criticality based on two main factors, which are the overvoltage magnitudes and the number of flashovers provoked by lightning discharges, and defines a feeder lightning performance function that is used to indicate the recommended location for lightning arresters’ installation. The simulation studies are accomplished using the IEEE 34 bus distribution grid and ATP software to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed solution, which is confirmed by the results presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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25 pages, 8701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Unintentional Islanding Operations in Distribution Networks with Large Induction Motors

by Pau Casals-Torrens, Juan A. Martinez-Velasco, Alexandre Serrano-Fontova and Ricard Bosch

Energies 2020, 13(2), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13020345 - 10 Jan 2020

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2226

Abstract

This paper is aimed at assessing the impact of unintentional islanding operations (IOs) in the presence of large induction motors (IMs) within distribution networks (DNs). When a fault occurs, following the circuit breaker (CB) fault clearing, the IMs act transiently as generators, due to its inertia, until the CB reclosing takes place. The present work is the outcome of a project carried out in a small DN, where field measurements were recorded over two years. This paper provides a detailed description of the test system, a selected list of field measurements, and a discussion on modeling guidelines used to create the model of the actual power system. The main goal is to validate the system model by comparing field measurements with simulation results. The comparison of simulations and field measurements prove the appropriateness of the modeling guidelines used in this work and highlight the high accuracy achieved in the implemented three-phase Matlab/Simulink model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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19 pages, 7009 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of an Integrated Power Distribution System Laboratory Platform Using Modular Miniature Physical Elements: A Case Study of Fault Location

by Jinrui Tang, Binyu Xiong, Chen Yang, Cuilan Tang, Yang Li, Guoxing Su and Xinhao Bian

Energies 2019, 12(19), 3780; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12193780 - 05 Oct 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3404

Abstract

The main shortcomings of the software-based power engineering education are a lack of physical understanding of phenomena and hands-on experience. Existing scaled-down analogous educational power system platforms cannot be widely used for experiments in universities due to the high cost, complicated operation, and huge size. An integrated power distribution system laboratory platform (PDSLP) using modular miniature physical elements is proposed in this paper. The printed circuit board (PCB) and microelectronic technology are proposed to construct each physical element. Furthermore, the constructed physical elements are used to set up an integrated PDSLP based on modular assembly technology. The size of the proposed cost-efficient PDSLP is significantly reduced, and the reliability of the proposed PDSLP can be improved greatly because the signal transmission path is shortened and a number of welding points are reduced. A PDSLP for fault location in neutral non-effectively grounded distribution systems (NGDSs) is selected as a typical experimental scenario and one scaled-down distribution network with three feeders is subsequently implemented and discussed. The measured zero-sequence currents by our proposed PDSLP when a single-phase earth fault occurred can reveal the true features of the fault-generated signals, including steady-state and transient characteristics of zero-sequence currents. They can be readily observed and used for students to design corresponding fault location algorithms. Modular renewable energy sources and other elements can be designed, implemented and integrated into the proposed platform for the laboratory education of the active distribution networks in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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31 pages, 17122 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of a Direct Lightning Strike to the 24 kV Distribution Lines in Thailand

by Pornchai Sestasombut and Atthapol Ngaopitakkul

Energies 2019, 12(16), 3193; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12163193 - 20 Aug 2019

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5761

Abstract

This paper evaluates the effect of a lightning strike directly on the 24 kV distribution lines in Thailand, where such strikes are one of the main causes of power outages. The voltage across the insulator, and the arrester energy absorbed due to the lightning, need to be analyzed for different grounding distances of the overhead ground wire, ground resistance, lightning impact positions, and lightning current waveforms. Analysis and simulations are conducted using the Alternative Transients Program/Electromagnetic Transients Program (ATP/EMTP) to find the energy absorbed by the arrester and the voltages across the insulator. The results indicate that when surge arresters are not installed, the voltage across the insulator at the end of the line is approximately 1.4 times that in the middle of the line. In addition, the ground resistance and grounding distance of the overhead ground wire affect the voltage across the insulator if the overhead ground wire is struck. When surge arresters are installed, a shorter grounding distance of the overhead ground wire and a lower ground resistance are not always desirable; this is because they reduce the back-flashover rate and the voltage across the insulator if lightning strikes the overhead ground wire. However, lightning strikes to the phase conductor result in high arrester energy and the possibility that the arrester will fail. Furthermore, the tail time of the lightning waveform is a significant variable when considering the energy absorbed by the arrester, whereas the front time is important for the voltage across the insulator. In case lightning strikes directly on the connected point between the overhead lines and the underground cables, the distribution line system is protected only by the lightning arrester at the connection point. The overvoltage at the connection point is lower than the basic impulse level at 24 kV of 125 kV, but the overvoltage at the end of the cable is still more than 125 kV in case the cable is longer than 400 m. When the distribution line system is protected by the lightning arrester at both the connection point and the end of the cable, it results in overvoltage throughout the cable is lower than the critical flashover of insulation. This method is the best way to reduce the failure rate of underground cables and equipment that are connected to the distribution line system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transient and Dynamic Simulations of Distribution Networks)

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