Telecommunication systems on power distribution networks: high frequency performances of carrier channels

In the framework of a project aimed at the design and installation of a new extensive distribution automation system in the ENEL SpA (Italian National Electricity Company) distribution network, this paper presents the investigations carried out to check the feasibility of a line carrier system on the primary (medium voltage 10-30 kV) network. In particular, this paper reports the experimental investigations conducted in the laboratory on various network components, to assess their behavior in the 20-100 kHz frequency range, and some signal transmission tests on real networks. Analytical procedures to predict the high frequency signal propagation in the network, set up for this purpose, are also described. The results of their applications to various network configurations are used as a guide for the optimal design of the power carrier communication system