A technique for network modeling and reliability evaluation of complex radial distribution systems

This paper presents a novel technique for network modeling and reliability evaluation of complex radial distribution systems. In this technique, all network branches are divided into two main classes. The feeder branch is a section of feeder, and the load branch is the lateral line connected directly to load point. The two types of branches are independently numbered and related each other by parent/offspring relationship. Circuit breaker and disconnect switches of each feeder branch are represented by using the numbers from 0 to 3. The reliability indices are first calculated for individual load points according to the switch types involved, and then individual load point indices are integrated into the feeder or system indices. A computer program has been developed, and a test distribution system is analyzed to illustrate the technique.