Arcing fault detection for distribution feeders: security assessment in long term field trials

A downed conductor, arcing fault detection system has been designed using multiple protection algorithms. An intelligent analysis system processes the outputs from several algorithms to determine the “confidence” that a fault exists. The design includes careful attention to discriminating arcing faults from normal system activity to ensure system security. Key to the acceptance of this system is testing under actual field conditions. The results of long term tests on five utilities are presented. The behavior of the prototype systems to staged faults, naturally occurring faults, and normal system disturbances is described. Conclusions are drawn concerning the practical viability of this system