LITTAUA, JHONLOYD R.
BSEE – 4C
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1. Reclosers (automatic and remote controlled)
 Automatic Reclosers
Automatic reclosers are designed to automatically close the circuit breaker after a
brief open operation when a fault occurs. This is done to test if the fault is transient or
permanent. If the fault is temporary, such as a tree branch momentarily contacting a
power line, the recloser can clear the fault and restore power without the need for
manual intervention. Automatic reclosers typically perform multiple sequential
operations, with a predetermined number of attempts to close the circuit after a fault.
If the fault persists after the programmed attempts, the recloser may lock out to
prevent further automatic attempts.
 Remote Controlled Reclosers
Remote-controlled reclosers provide the capability for manual control and
coordination from a central location, often through a SCADA (Supervisory Control
and Data Acquisition) system. This allows operators to remotely open or close the
recloser based on real-time information and system conditions. Remote-controlled
reclosers offer enhanced flexibility in terms of adjusting settings, monitoring system
performance, and responding to specific conditions. This capability is particularly
useful for optimizing the operation of the distribution system and reducing the need
for field visits.
2. Sectionalizing Fuses
Sectionalizing fuses are protective devices used in power distribution systems to
automatically isolate faulty sections of the network and maintain service continuity to
the rest of the system. These fuses are designed to detect and respond to faults by
opening the circuit in a controlled manner. The primary purpose of sectionalizing
fuses is to minimize the impact of faults on distribution systems. When a fault occurs,
the sectionalizing fuse isolates the faulty section, preventing the fault from affecting
the entire distribution network. Sectionalizing fuses operate automatically in response
to abnormal conditions such as short circuits or overloads. The automatic operation
ensures a swift response to faults without the need for manual intervention. There are
different types of sectionalizing fuses, including expulsion-type fuses, current-limiting
fuses, and electronically controlled fuses. The choice of fuse type depends on factors
such as the specific application, fault characteristics, and desired performance.
3. Fault Location Equipment
Fault location in a distribution system is crucial for the quick restoration of power and
the overall reliability of the electrical grid. Various equipment and techniques are
employed to identify and locate faults in distribution systems. Common fault location
equipment and methods used in distribution systems:
Fault Indicators
 Overhead Line Fault Indicators: These devices are installed on overhead lines
and provide a visual indication when a fault occurs. They are usually reset
manually after the fault is cleared.
 Cable Fault Indicators: Similar to overhead line indicators, cable fault
indicators are designed for underground cables.
Cable Route Tracers
 Cable route tracers are used to identify the path of underground cables,
helping locate faults in underground distribution systems.
Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)
 TDR is a method that uses pulse reflections to analyze and locate faults in
cables. By measuring the time it takes for the signal to reflect back, the
distance to the fault can be determined.
Pre-locating Instruments
 Instruments like pre-locators help narrow down the fault location before more
precise methods are used. They typically indicate the general area of the fault.
Acoustic Fault Locators
 These devices use the sound generated by a fault to locate it. Acoustic signals
produced by the fault are detected and analyzed to determine the fault
location.
Thermal Imaging Cameras
 Thermal cameras can be used to identify overheating components or areas in
electrical equipment, which may indicate a fault.
Power Quality Analyzers
 Power quality analyzers monitor and analyze the quality of the electrical
power in a distribution system. Sudden changes or disturbances may indicate a
fault.
Fault Passage Indicators
 These devices provide a quick indication of the section of the distribution
system where a fault has occurred. They can help utilities isolate the faulty
section for faster restoration.
Remote Monitoring Systems
 SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems and other
remote monitoring tools enable real-time monitoring of the distribution
system. Alarms and data from these systems can help identify and locate
faults.
Fault Locating Switches
 These are switches that can be remotely operated to isolate faulty sections,
helping in the localization of faults.
4. Shunt Capacitors( fixed and switched banks)
Shunt capacitors, both fixed and switched banks, are commonly used in electrical power
systems to improve power factor and voltage regulation. These capacitors are connected
in parallel to the load and are designed to compensate for the reactive power, which is the
power that oscillates between the source and the load without performing any real work.
 Fixed Shunt Capacitors:
Purpose: Fixed shunt capacitors are installed to provide a continuous and constant
amount of reactive power compensation.
Operation: These capacitors are connected to the power system at all times and
continuously provide reactive power to offset the lagging reactive power inductive
components of the load.
Advantages:
Improved power factor: Reduces the lagging power factor, leading to better overall
system efficiency.
Voltage support: Helps in maintaining voltage levels by supplying reactive power locally.
 Switched Shunt Capacitors (Banks):
Purpose: Switched shunt capacitors are used to provide dynamic reactive power
compensation based on the varying load conditions.
Operation: These capacitors are switched in and out of the system as needed, responding
to changes in the load demand or system conditions. They are controlled by automatic
controllers that measure the power factor or other relevant parameters.
Advantages:
Dynamic compensation: Adapts to the varying reactive power requirements, providing
flexibility and efficiency.
Energy savings: Reduces the need for continuous reactive power compensation, leading
to energy savings.
5. Tie Switches
In a distribution system, tie switches play a crucial role in providing flexibility,
redundancy, and the ability to isolate or connect different sections of the network. Tie
switches are essentially manual or automated switches that can be used to tie or connect
two or more feeders or circuits. They are strategically placed in the distribution system to
allow for various operational configurations and to facilitate maintenance activities.

Tie switches can be used to connect two or more feeders, allowing the flow of
electrical power between them. This configuration is useful for load balancing,
redundancy, or optimizing the distribution of power within the network.

Conversely, tie switches can be opened to isolate or disconnect certain
sections of the distribution system. This is often done during maintenance
activities or in response to faults to minimize the impact on the overall system.

Tie switches facilitate load transfer between different feeders. During peak
demand periods or in case of maintenance on one feeder, the load can be
transferred to another feeder using tie switches.

By strategically placing tie switches, distribution systems can be configured to
enhance resilience. In the event of a fault or outage in one part of the system,
tie switches can be used to reroute power and maintain service in other areas.

Some tie switches are equipped with automation capabilities, allowing for
remote control and operation. This enhances the flexibility and efficiency of
the distribution system, particularly in response to changing load conditions or
fault events.

Tie switches are crucial for isolating specific sections of the distribution
system during maintenance activities. By isolating a feeder or circuit,
maintenance crews can work safely without affecting the rest of the network.

Tie switches are instrumental in reconfiguring the distribution grid to adapt to
changes in demand, equipment availability, or in response to system faults.
This ability to reconfigure the grid dynamically contributes to improved
reliability.

Tie switches add an extra layer of flexibility to the distribution system's
operational capabilities. They provide the means to adapt the network to
different scenarios and contingencies, contributing to a more resilient and
responsive infrastructure.