Hardware-In-the-Loop Simulation to Test Advanced Automation Devices in Power Distribution Networks

Abstract

The sustainable development of power distribution systems must evolve into smart grids, where advanced automation with fast communication channels is essential. The analysis of their behavior uses the Hardware-In-the-Loop simulation for studying normal and critical operating conditions. In this work, we propose a hybrid technique for transient simulation in distribution systems by combining the high sample rate of the time domain models for voltage profile and electrical current monitoring with the processing speed of algorithms that operate the quasi-stationary, or permanent, phasor models. The proposed simulation platform is also based on the state of the art of standardized communication protocols of the power system. Its evaluation is performed using the comparison with specialized commercial software to assess the transient simulation. The time overcurrent protection function and the verification of messages exchanged between the simulator and the tested device highlights the applicability of the proposed methodology.