Abstract
The integration of diverse load types, such as large-scale distributed generators and charging stations, presents considerable challenges to distribution networks. The Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) provides multiple benefits, including its compact dimensions, cost efficiency, seamless regulation, and swift response. When deployed in distribution networks, the UPFC facilitates the creation of a Distribution Unified Power Flow Controller (DUPFC) system. The DUPFC system enhances medium voltage distribution network regulation but also affects power quality, fault characteristics, and relay protection accuracy. To address these issues, a power flow equivalent circuit model for the medium voltage distribution loop network was developed. The operating principle and steady-state model of the UPFC were investigated, based on distribution loop network parameters and power flow distribution characteristics. A UPFC control strategy was designed to create a suitable DUPFC system for the medium voltage distribution loop network, ensuring coordination between UPFC protection and the distribution system’s protection mechanisms. This system accomplishes rapid fault isolation and automatic load transfer. Finally, a simulation model based on a typical 20 kV distribution loop network structure was selected to validate the effectiveness of the UPFC control strategy and the DUPFC protection system in MATLAB/Simulink.
DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Funding
Notes on contributors
Wenzhou Lu
Wenzhou Lu received the B.Sc. degree in electrical engineering from Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China, in 2007, and the Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering from Southeast University, Nanjing, China, in 2013. From February to August 2012, he was a Visiting Research Student with Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He is currently an Associate Professor with the School of Internet of Things (IoT) Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China. He has authored or coauthored more than 30 technical articles and patents in relevant areas. His research interests include power electronics and its control, active distribution network protection and control, renewable energy generation, and wireless power transfer technology.
Xiaolong Wu
Xiaolong Wu received the bachelor degree in electrical engineering and automation from Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China, in 2021. He is currently studying for a master degree in electrical engineering at Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China. His research interest is power system relay protection.
Longxiang Duan
Longxiang Duan received the B.Sc. degree in electrical engineering from Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China, in 2022. His research interest is power system protection and control technology.
Zhiren Liu
Zhiren Liu received the B.Sc. degree and master degree in electrical engineering from Southeast University, Nanjing, China, in 2007and 2010, respectively. He is now working in State Grid Wuxi Power Supply Company. His main research direction is power system protection and control technology.
Weilin Tong
Weilin Tong received the master degree in electrical engineering from Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China, in 2019. He is now working in State Grid Wuxi Power Supply Company. His main research direction is power grid dispatching and operation.
Yongsheng Liu
Yongsheng Liu received the master degree in electrical engineering from Southeast University, Nanjing, China, in 2011. He is now working in NR Electric Co., Ltd. His main research direction is middle and low voltage DC distribution network protection and urban rail transit AC-DC protection.