Method of ensuring the coordinated arc fault protection in a heirarchial power distribution system

Abstract

A coordinated arc fault protection scheme in a hierarchical power distribution system is disclosed. The methods according to embodiments of the present invention may be considered an 'event and time graded' analysis. In event and time based analysis, the number of confirmed arc signature may be monitored with respect to time in the main feeder line as well as the branched feeders. The confirmed arc signature in the branched feeder, as well as in the main feeder, may be captured and time stamped. A trip command may be issued first in the intended branched feeder if the branched feeder experiences a minimum number of events within a given time. During the same time period, the main feeder also monitors similar arcing events. If the tripping of the branched feeder occurs and the main feeder still detects arcing events, the main feeder may be tripped after a certain period of time or a certain number of confirmed arc signature. If there is no arc in the branched feeder and the main feeder itself experiences the arc, then the main feeder may be tripped after a predetermined period of time so that the current to all the branched feeders may be cut and the main feeder may be protected.