Localização de faltas monofásicas em sistemas de distribuição utilizando algoritmos genéticos

Abstract

Distribution systems are a fundamental part of the Electric Power System, being responsible for delivering electrical energy to consumers. Due to the complexity of these systems, they must present a good level of reliability, ensuring the continuous supply of loads for the majority of the time. One of the most common problems that compromise this reliability are faults, which can interrupt the energy supply for considerable periods, affecting consumers's routines. Therefore, developing methodologies for fast, efficient, and accurate fault location is essential. In this context, the present work proposes a method for fault location using Genetic Algorithms. The method is based on the simulation of single-phase short circuits in the system, calculating the currents at specific points in the network under fault conditions (referred to as simulated currents). Subsequently, using the objective function of a Genetic Algorithm, simulations of faults4defined by the GA parameters4are performed to minimize the error between the actual and calculated currents (by the GA), determining the bus, phase, and fault impedance for each analyzed case study. The simulations and result acquisition were carried out using the OpenDSS and MATLAB® software, applying the IEEE 13-Bus system. The results