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INTRODUCTION
Digital relays that uses a microprocessor to analyze power system voltages, currents or other process quantities for the purpose of detection of faults in an industrial process system.The digital relay is a multifunctional device using numerical algorithms that can easily duplicate any of the ANSI protection functions with simple software modifications. Digital relays are those in which the measured ac quantities are manipulated in analog form and subsequently converted into square-wave (binary) voltages. Logic circuits or microprocessors compare the phase relation-ships of the square waves to make a trip decision. A multifunction digital relay is a microprocessor-based unit that uses Digital Signal Processing technology in order to provide multiple protective relaying functions for generator protection in one unit. Since many functions are incorporated into one package, much less panel space and wiring is required than would be if individual relays were used.
Low voltage and low current signals (i.e., at the secondary of a voltage transformers and current transformers) are brought into a low pass filter that removes frequency content above about 1/3 of the sampling frequency (a relay A/D converter needs to sample faster than 2x per cycle of the highest frequency that it is to monitor). The AC signal is then sampled by the relay's analog to digital converter from 4 to 64 (varies by relay) samples per power system cycle. In some relays, a short history of the entire sampled data is kept for oscillographic records. Only the fundamental component is needed for most protection algorithms, unless a high speed algorithm is used that uses subcycle data to monitor for fast changing issues. The sampled data is then passed through a low pass filter that numerically removes the frequency content that is above the fundamental frequency of interest (i.e., nominal system frequency), and uses Fourier transform algorithms to extract the fundamental frequency magnitude and angle. Next the microprocessor passes the data into a set of protection algorithms, which are a set of logic equations in part designed by the protection engineer, and in part designed by the relay manufacturer, that monitor for abnormal conditions that indicate a fault. If a fault condition is detected, output contacts operate to trip the associated circuit breaker(s).
CIRCUIT BREAKER PROTECTION This implies a current flow that keeps on feeding the fault which can be used to detect the breaker failure itself. In those applications which even though the mechanical failure exist, the current could not be high enough to be detected, the opening must also be verified by means of breaker auxiliary contacts. OPERATION: A tripping order for the circuit breaker initiates the time delay count down for the protection.Once the time delay is over , if the breaker is not yet open, the protection sends a tripping order to all the adjacent breakers, including those at the end of the lines if necessary. Sometimes two time delays are used, the first one to repeat the tripping order for the breaker itself, and the second for the other breakers.
Conclusion Digital relays are presently available that provide highly reliable protection for generators. These units utilize the latest digital signal processing technology to accomplish many relaying functions simultaneously. By appropriate use of multiple multifunction digital relays, or by using multifunction digital relays in combination with single-function relays, protection engineers can provide the reliability and security level needed for their specific applications. Digital relays provide many extra features that are quickly becoming priority items. These include self-checking, digital fault recording, metering and remote communications. The self calibration and special test programs included with the relays simplify test and checkout of installations using these devices.