A double-ended third harmonic method for vegetation high impedance fault location in overhead distribution systems.

• Novel Methodology : Introduces a new double-ended terminal method for locating vegetation high impedance faults (VHIFs) in power distribution systems using the third harmonic component. • Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness : This technique requires only two measurement terminals, significantly reducing the need and expense of extensive sensor deployment. • Overcomes Traditional Limitations : Unlike traditional methods, it eliminates the need for complex mathematical formulation models, improving accuracy in fault localization. • Demonstrated Accuracy : Simulation tests validate the method's effectiveness, achieving error rates below 1.6 %, highlighting its potential for real-world applications. • Practical Implications : Offers a proactive approach to power system protection, contributing to improved operation and maintenance of power distribution networks. Vegetation-related high-impedance faults (VHIFs) on overhead distribution systems can cause damage, maintenance issues, and even wildfires, impacting both utilities and ecosystems. Existing fault location techniques struggle to accurately locate VHIFs. In this paper, we propose a novel double-ended terminal location method based on the third harmonic component of the fault system. The proposed technique determines the distance of the VHIF by approximating the third harmonic voltage at the fault local, utilizing measurements from the remote terminal located at the far-end of the feeder. This method efficiently locates VHIFs with just two measurement terminals, cutting the need and cost of extensive sensor deployment. Moreover, the proposed method overcomes the limitations of traditional fault location techniques by using a third harmonic model of the faulted system, eliminating the need for complex mathematical models to approximate the fault behavior and voltage at the fault local. Simulation tests were conducted to validate the proposed method, demonstrating its effectiveness in accurately locating VHIFs. The technique achieved error rates below 1.6 %, making it a promising solution for real-world applications in power distribution systems. The ability to precisely locate VHIFs meets a proactive protection philosophy and contributes to improved power system protection and ensures uninterrupted power supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]