SYSTEM FOR DETECTION OF HIGH IMPEDANCE FAULT

High impedance faults result when an energized primary conductor comes in contact with a semi-insulated object. In general, high impedance faults are associated with arcing at the point of contact. These high impedance faults present a serious public safety hazard and a risk of fires. High impedance fault detection has been a major concern of protection engineers for a long time. This paper discusses a system for detection of high impedance fault that has been implemented in an IED for feeder protection. The paper also discusses laboratory tests and field tests at different utilities.