Methodology for fast fault location in overhead distribution networks by the application of temporary georeferenced fault indicators

Most of the electricity distribution companies in Brazil, especially in rural areas, usually spend a long time to locate shunt faults in overhead lines. The major cause of the excessive time spent in the fault location process is the lack of appropriate tools. In spite of the existence of some tools that could be applied to aid the fault location, as permanent fault indicators, they are usually not installed by the companies because of the high cost and vandalism. In order to shorten this time, a new methodology has been developed aiming especially long networks in rural areas. This methodology consists in installing temporary georeferenced fault indicators in the branches after the fault occurrence. These devices communicate with a computer via mesh network, allowing a diagnostic software to indicate the path of the fault, and its location, in the overhead line map.