A heuristic search approach to feeder switching operations for overload, faults, unbalanced flow and maintenance

The general feeder switching problem is essentially combinatorial, i.e. suitable for analysis by heuristic search methods. An explicit search method is developed to identify feasible switching options under the constraint of a radial structure. Feeder overload, transformer overload, phase current over-unbalance, service restoration after faults, and maintenance are considered. The number of switching operations for resolution of these problems is an important factor for practical use. An explicit search structure is proposed. Based on this search structure heuristic rules and evaluation functions are exploited to quickly find a solution with relatively few switching operations and even balancing of system load. The method is efficient and reliable. A distribution system of the Taiwan Power Company is used to test the results