Fault Detection Method for Inverter Interfaced Distributed Generators Based Microgrid

A microgrid is a small power distribution system consisting of a cluster of low-power generation units (micro energy sources) capable of operating independently, loads, energy storage, and energy conversion devices with associated protection and control units. Unlike traditional microgrids, the micro sources in all microgrids are inverter-interfaced distributed generators (IIDGs), in which the fault currents are 1.2-2 times the rated current. To ensure the stable operation of the microgrid requires to detect the faults within the minimum possible time. The data collected from Waveform Measurement Units (WMUs) are widely used to detect disturbances. When an event occurs, WMUs provide GPS-synchronized measurements of voltage and current waveforms in the time domain captured during the event. Given such data, a Lissajous curve can be developed, which is a graph constructed by plotting one waveform versus another. By utilizing this phenomenon, a new algorithm has been developed to detect and locate faults within the microgrid.