This paper revisits different grounding practices in distribution power systems. It discusses how system grounding and load connection impact the sensitivity of detecting higher-impedance ground faults. The paper discusses possible ways of improving the ground fault detection sensitivity for different systems. The paper illustrates that no single economical technology or practice available today can guarantee 100 percent reliable high-impedance ground fault detection. To provide a perspective with respect to ground faults versus fire ignitions, the paper reviews several staged downed conductor tests and summarizes key research findings in released energy of arcing faults and fire ignition. 

Understanding Ground Fault Detection Sensitivity and Ways to Mitigate Safety Hazards in Power Distribution Systems

This paper documents how PPL Electric Utilities improved high-impedance fault (HIF) detection on their distribution system by adding an HIF detection algorithm and updating metering technology while still using their existing protective relaying. The paper documents live downed conductor detection testing and the associated findings along with lessons learned from the initial pilot and subsequent enhancements to the system, including adding HIF tripping logic. 

Practical Experience With High-Impedance Fault Detection in Distribution Systems

Détection de conducteurs tombés au sol

Les technologies de détection de conducteurs tombés au sol permettent de détecter de nombreux défauts à haute impédance sur un réseau de distribution, améliorant ainsi la sécurité et atténuant les risques d’incendie.

Détection de conducteurs tombés au sol

Relais de protection d’artère de distribution

Dispositifs de commande de disjoncteur à réenclenchement