The recloser-fuse coordination of the distribution networks equipped with distributed generators (DGs) may be jeopardized by using the conventional overcurrent protection strategies thus degrading the network reliability. This research article focuses on the design of a protection coordination strategy based on the dual-setting directional recloser (DSDR) for the effective implementation of a fuse-saving scheme in distribution networks (DNs). The proposed DSDR-based protection strategy will assist the network operators by providing a flexible coordination range along with more accurate protection settings to meet the protection coordination requirements. The performance of the proposed protection scheme has been validated through its implementation on IEEE standardized test systems and a comparative analysis has been drawn to demonstrate its effectiveness. Furthermore, this research work concentrates on the economical design of the protection strategy for distribution networks by utili
Abstract
This research article focuses on the indeterminate protection challenge of the sensitivity deterioration (SD) (also known as protection blindness) of the overcurrent protection (OCP) devices due to the large-scale integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) in the unbalanced distribution networks (DNs). The protection blindness of the OCP has been demonstrated through novel mathematical formulations to quantify the percentage of the sensitivity deterioration for different types of distributed generation (DGs) units and for the varying DG penetration levels. Furthermore, this issue has been realistically analyzed for the different fault impedances and DG locations to examine its impact on the existing OCP system. A mitigation strategy has been proposed to overcome the SD issue of the OCP protective devices (PDs) for a steadfast operation of the OCP devices without requiring costly upgradations of the protection system. This protection blindness issue has been explored