PSO techniques for optimal power flow. Parameters tuning by mathematical test functions

The paper is focusing on Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm. Several variants of the PSO algorithm are studied. To evaluate their performances a software tool has been developed in Matlab environment. Three reference mathematical test functions have been used for this purpose. This paper represents a necessary step requested by the optimal power flow (OPF) computing approach. Currently the authors are focusing on developing a PSO based OPF computing algorithm. The most suitable PSO algorithm variant is provided based on the analyses within the current paper.