Abnormal Detection Line Method to Estimate Disconnection Points in Power Distribution Lines

Natural phenomena such as gale, rain, and lightning cause disconnections, which can disrupt power distribution. Therefore, a method that can estimate the disconnection point (DP) in power distribution lines is needed to ensure public safety and a stable power supply. A simple DP detection method using a common earthing conductor is applied to both residential and industrial areas with only two distribution lines with interconnection points at the ends. However, this method cannot be used in rural areas that have distribution lines without interconnection points. Therefore, we propose a novel DP estimation method for use in distribution lines in rural areas. To this end, an abnormal detection line was installed along a long distribution line with branch lines and ammeters placed at its starting and end points. DP estimation was realized by calculating the time difference between the zero-crossing points of the current flowing in the two ammeters. The DP estimation effectiveness of the proposed method was validated by simulating long distribution lines. Thus, the proposed method can be used to improve the performance of the distribution lines in rural areas.