Rule-Based Data-Driven Analytics for Wide-Area Fault Detection Using Synchrophasor Data

Synchrophasor technology, also known as wide-area monitoring system technology, utilizes phasor measurement unit (PMU) to monitor real-time system data, which can provide unique insights into the operation of a power grid. In this paper, a rule-based data-driven analytics method for wide-area fault detection in a power system using synchrophasor data is proposed. As a data-driven approach, this method relies on rules created using PMU measurement data, and does not require knowledge of the power system's topology and model. It can detect fault location (bus and line) and fault type for a particular fault event. Three common types of short circuit faults in a power grid, single-line-to-ground, line-to-line, and three-phase faults, can be identified using the proposed method. Fault thresholds used in rules are determined based on theoretical values and recorded PMU data during fault events in Bonneville power administration (BPA)'s large power grid. The proposed method is validated by comparing with the recorded field data for fault events provided by BPA. It is found that it can effectively detect most faults with a great accuracy. It has been developed into a software program, and can be readily used by utility companies.