Enhancing electric power system resilience through modern digital protection systems

As organizations increasingly adopt digital trip circuits to replace legacy analog hardwired trip circuits, it is essential to recognize that these digital systems face similar vulnerabilities. The top three protection system failures identified by the Electric Reliability Organization impact digital trip circuits as well. This paper focuses on measuring the impact of modern digital protection and control systems on electric power equipment. By evaluating fault-clearing time implications, the author demonstrates asset resiliency improvements gained from high-performing, modern digital protection systems. Notable advancements, including faster phasor and time-domain protection algorithms, improved zero-crossing detection, and high-speed output contacts, contribute to faster decision-making by protective relays. These systems can even interrupt service before broken conductors fall, preventing electrically induced wildfires. The study employs standardized methods to evaluate, test, and measure digital trip circuit designs. By comparing various trip circuit latencies, the author emphasizes the importance of reliability and resilience. Additionally, the paper includes IEEE and IEC definitions of latency, providing a framework for assessing different trip circuit designs. Reliability analysis and maintenance strategies, such as IEC 60870, aid in comparing technologies. In summary, leveraging modern digital protection and control systems enhances asset resiliency, mitigates operational risks, and contributes to a safer and more reliable energy infrastructure.