Experimental Investigation of High Impedance Faults in MV Overhead Distribution Networks due to Mango Tree Branches

A. P. Leão; J. P. A. Vieira; W. R. Heringer; A. L. Sousa; R. B. Gadelha; M. C. Santos

doi:10.20906/sbse.v2i1.2887

A. P. Leão Federal University of Pará, PA
J. P. A. Vieira Federal University of Pará, PA
W. R. Heringer Federal University of Pará, PA
A. L. Sousa Federal University of Pará, PA
R. B. Gadelha Federal University of Pará, PA
M. C. Santos Equatorial Pará Energy, Belém, PA

DOI: https://doi.org/10.20906/sbse.v2i1.2887

Keywords: High impedance Fault, Electrical Power Systems, Overhead distribution networks, Tests on Tree Branches

Abstract

The high impedance fault (HIF) has as one of its main characteristics the low magnitude of the current produced, causing its detection and location to be impaired for the equipment currently used to protect electrical power systems, which favors the driver remain energized, increasing the likelihood of fires and the risk of death for living beings. Records of HIF characteristics in trees are a gap in the literature, making it difficult to develop new algorithms and identification methods. This study presents details of the voltage and current characteristics of HIF shunt in Mango tree branches, the result of experimental tests carried out in a laboratory designed and assembled for simulation of HIF in aerial distribution networks, aiming to obtain data for future modeling HIF shunts on trees. These oscillographs were captured using a commercial protection relay.