Application of probabilistic neural networks using high-frequency components’ differential current for transformer protection schemes to discriminate between external faults and internal winding faults in power transformers

Abstract

Internal and external faults in a power transformer are discriminated in this paper using an algorithm based on a combination of a discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and a probabilistic neural network (PNN). DWT decomposes high-frequency fault components using the maximum coefficients of a 1/4 cycle DWT as input patterns for the training process in a decision algorithm. A division algorithm between a zero sequence of post-fault differential current waveforms and the differential current coefficient in the 1/4 cycle DWT is used to detect the maximum ratio and faults. The simulation system uses various study cases based on Thailand’s electricity transmission and distribution systems. The simulation results demonstrated that the PNN and BPNN are effectively implemented and perform fault detection with satisfactory accuracy. However, the PNN method is most suitable for detecting internal and external faults, and the maximum coefficient algorithm is the most effective in detecting the fault. This study will be useful in differential protection for power transformers. © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.