Comparative Analysis of Active Filters Applied in AFCI Systems

Abstract

As the deployment of photovoltaic systems continues to increase, the use of electric arc detection and interruption devices becomes increasingly necessary to avoid accidents and fires in photovoltaic plants. Given the susceptibility of electric arc signals to distortion induced by external factors, the accurate identification of arc occurrences necessitates meticulous signal conditioning. This study presents a systematic comparison of various active analog filters, evaluating their efficacy in preserving the frequency components inherent to electric arc signals. Using a circuit simulation, four standout filters were identified, distinguished by their adherence to some design criteria, such as component count, attenuation characteristics within transition bands, and fidelity in retaining frequency components across the passband spectrum. The results of this study summarize the main advantages and disadvantages of different filters applied in AFCI systems.