Automated Analysis of Fault Records and Dissemination of Event Reports

This paper describes a new solution for automated analysis of fault records captured by digital fault recorders (DFRs) and automated dissemination of event reports. The solution is based on the client/server architecture consisting of modules installed in substations, central office and user desktops. Substation-based modules perform DFR file conversion, signal processing, event analysis and fault location. Main part of the analysis is centered on the expert system whose knowledge base has been tested in a prototype system over the last five years. Server-based modules provide centralized DFR data archiving and event reports dissemination. Main software modules on the server are the database, report parser and Web site. The installation of the system in Reliant Energy HL&P's substations is underway. Initial field-testing shows that functional requirements are completely met.