EE0320 : Fault Analysis in Electrical Networks & Distribution Cables: Power Systems Troubleshooting

 

This practical and highly-interactive course includes various practical sessions and exercises. Theory learnt will be applied using our state-of-the-art simulators. 

 

The detection of faults on electrical distribution systems has been one of the most persistent and difficult problems facing the electric utility industry.  The performance and characteristics of electrical system configurations are vital factor in reducing or increasing the effect of faults on the system as earthing system, switch gear, protective relays, active and reactive power generation, etc. Protective systems are designed to sense faults and initiate fault clearing in a timely manner while minimizing the affected area.  Protective relays are used to sense the faults and initiate circuit breakers tripping. Alternatively, fuses are used on the distribution system to sense and clear faults. 

 

Electrical faults can cause severe damage when not interrupted promptly. In some cases, high-impedance fault currents may be insufficient to operate protective relays or blow fuses. Standard overcurrent protection schemes utilized on secondary distribution at some industrial, commercial and large residential buildings may not detect high-impedance faults, commonly called arcing faults. 

 

 

In these cases, more careful design techniques, such as the use of ground fault circuit interruption, are required to detect arcing faults and prevent burndown.  When a short-circuit fault occurs, the fault path explodes in an intense arc.  Local customers endure an interruption and customers farther away, a voltage sag; faults cause most reliability and power quality problems.  Faults kill and injure line operators.  Crew operating practices, equipment and training must account for where fault arc are likely to occur and must minimize crew exposure. When faults occur, we have ways to reduce their impacts.  This course focuses on the general characteristics of faults and specific analysis of common fault types with suggestions on how to reduce them. 

 

This course is designed to present methods of Electrical Fault analysis, causes, detection and remedies in Electrical Networks and Distribution Cables, particularly with the aid of a personal computer and Power System Simulator.  The approach is designed to develop participant’s thinking process, enabling them to reach a sound understanding of a broad range of topics related to electrical faults, while motivating their interest in the electrical power industry.  The course includes many case studies describing present day, practical applications.  Those case studies and exercises will be solved in the class.