Arcing current features extraction using wavelet transform

High Impedance Fault (HIF) has long been a challenging problem in network protection. This is because of its difficulty to be detected and discriminated accurately and reliably. In real cases, arcing is usually associated with HIFs. In this paper, arcing currents produced by using different metals are analysed based on wavelet transform. The wavelet db4 is used and found to be sensitive in detecting high frequency transient. Test results show that the features for different current magnitudes are different. These features are studied to develop a simple detection criterion to distinguish arcing fault currents from the normal load.