Analytical Representation of the Relationship Between Generator Design and System Fault Behavior

This paper presents the development and application of an analytical method for formalizing the dependence of the behavior of a large power system under fault conditions on the equivalent impedance presented by a single generator. After selecting an appropriate generator model, it is demonstrated that network-wide fault behavior can be expressed as a rational function of the equivalent impedance presented by a single generator under fault conditions. This representation simplifies the identification and depiction of constraints imposed by system configuration on the ability of a generator replacement or augmentation to affect fault behavior. The effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed by considering the three-phase fault currents produced in a six-bus test system. In addition, the new analytical method is extended to obtain a numerical estimate of the maximum possible change in fault behavior that could result from a generator replacement or augmentation. Overall, the new approach aids in the evaluation of the suitability of generator modification or augmentation schemes.