Field trial of fault location on a distribution system using high frequency transients

In this paper the results of a pilot field trial of traveling wave fault location on a distribution system is reported. Both a double ended fault location scheme and a single ended fault location scheme are investigated. The principles applied were originally developed for extra high voltage transmission systems and the problems posed by medium voltage distribution networks will be emphasized. Results from recorded fault transients from a 23.8 kV distribution system demonstrate the viability and limitations of applying traveling wave fault location on a distribution system. It is shown that, through using a novel combination of single ended and double ended techniques, good coverage of a distribution system can be achieved.