ASSIGNMENT 1
MEEP1673: POWER SYSTEM PROTECTION
COORDINATION OF OVERCURRENT RELAYS IN POWER DISTRIBUTION
SYSTEMS USING ETAP SOFTWARE
PREPARED BY:
1. NUR ALIA BINTI RUSLI (MEE231014)
2. NUR ATHIRAH BINTI ROSLI (MEE231027)
LECTURER: IR. TS. DR. MOHD HAFIZ BIN HABIBUDDIN
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................ 1
2. OBJECTIVES .................................................................................................................. 2
3. WORK METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................ 2
4. RESULT AND DISCUSSION ......................................................................................... 3
4.1 Load flow analysis ..................................................................................................... 4
4.2 Short circuit analysis ................................................................................................. 5
4.3 Calculation ................................................................................................................. 6
4.4 Selection of CT ratio ................................................................................................. 8
4.5 Pick-up (PU) setting and time dial settings ........................................................... 11
4.6 Time-Current coordination curve ......................................................................... 17
4.7 Confirmation of Relay Sequence ........................................................................... 18
5. CONCLUSION .............................................................................................................. 24
6. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................... 24
1. INTRODUCTION
Power distribution networks are becoming more complex and expansive, driven by
rising electricity demand and the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
A robust protection system is pivotal to ensure these systems operate reliably and safely. The
primary goal of a protective relay is to eliminate the fault current and isolate the faulty
section to prevent it from disrupting the rest of the power system network [1]. Overcurrent
relays are a crucial part of these mechanisms. They work on a simple principle: when the
current in a system exceeds a certain threshold, the relay trips and disconnects the affected
part of the network. To mitigate the impact of fault on consumers, these relays are carefully
coordinated with one another. Effective relay coordination is vital for the power distribution
system, as inadequate coordination can lead to significant issues, including power outages,
equipment damage, and utility station malfunctions [2].
Overcurrent relays operate based on their time-current characteristics, which define
how quickly they respond to different levels of fault current. These characteristics are
typically categorized into inverse time overcurrent relays (IDMT), definite time overcurrent
relays, and instantaneous overcurrent relays. IDMT relays are designed to react faster as the
fault current increases, striking a balance between protection and selectivity. Definite time
overcurrent relays have a fixed delay before tripping, regardless of the fault current size,
while instantaneous relays trip without delay when the current exceeds a critical level [3].
Proper coordination among these relays ensures that only the section with the fault is isolated,
minimizing disruption to the entire network and maintaining system integrity.
However, implementing overcurrent protection effectively is challenging. One major
issue is ensuring accurate coordination among multiple relays across a distribution network
[2]. Poor coordination can lead to unnecessary relay trips, causing extensive power outages
and instability. The increasing integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar
panels and wind turbines adds complexity to the system. DERs create variability in power
flow, making it harder to set relay parameters that detect faults without being triggered by
normal fluctuations. Additionally, advancements in smart grid technology and the rise of
microgrids require adaptive protection schemes that can respond to real-time changes in
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network configuration and load conditions. Addressing these challenges demands
sophisticated tools and methodologies for designing, analyzing, and optimizing relay settings.
This report tackles these challenges by exploring how ETAP (Electrical Transient
Analyzer Program) software to coordinate overcurrent relays effectively. ETAP is a powerful
simulation tool widely used in the power industry. By performing detailed load flow and
short circuit analyses, selecting appropriate current transformers (CTs), and meticulously
setting relay parameters, this study shows how advanced simulation tools can enhance the
reliability and efficiency of protection schemes in modern power distribution networks.
Through detailed simulations and practical examples, this report highlights the importance of
accurate relay coordination and the advantages of utilizing advanced tools for the design and
optimization of protection systems
2. OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this assignment are:
To identify the optimal settings for overcurrent relays to ensure effective protection
and coordination within a power distribution network.
To demonstrate the application of ETAP software to simulate and optimize relay
coordination in power systems.
3. WORK METHODOLOGY
1. Modelling the give single line diagram using ETAP software.
2. Run load flow analysis to determine the maximum current at each feeder.
3. Run the short circuit analysis to determine fault current at all buses.
4. Select the transformation ratios of the CTs, utilising Class 5P10 CT and suitable
accuracy limit current.
5. Determine the values of the pick-up (PU) setting and time dial settings of all relays to
ensure a coordinated protection system.
6. Produce the time-current coordination curve of the relays on the system.
7. Confirm the sequence of relay operation of the relays for three-phase short at each
bus.
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4. RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Figure 1 shows the one-line diagram of the provided system.
The one line consist of 5 bus system with on step down transformer from 33kV to 11Kv.
Every bus equipped with Current Transformer, IDMT Relay and circuit breaker. Two load
with 3MVA and 4MVA are connected to the system.
Figure 1 One Line Diagram
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4.1 Load flow analysis
Figure 2 shows the load flow analysis results. The maximum current at each feeder is
observed.
Figure 2: Load Flow Analysis Diagram
Based on Figure 2, at Load 2, the current flow is higher with 128.9 A than the current flow
at Load 1 with 85.9 A. This is due to the higher MVA at Load 2. At bus 3, the total current
flow is 214.9 A while at Bus 4 is 82.2 A.
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4.2 Short circuit analysis
Figure 3: Short Circuit Analysis Diagram
Figure 3 shows the short circuit analysis results. Fault current at all buses is observed. Table 1
summarizes the result.
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Table 1: Fault current at each relay
Relay Relay 1A Relay 1B Relay 2 Relay 3 Relay 4
Maximum
Fault Current 2421 2421 3043 1750 1750
(A)
4.3 Calculation
Based on the load flow analysis, we able to determine the CT Ratio
Relay 1A Relay 1B Relay 2 Relay 3 Relay 4
CT ratio (A) 250/1 200/1 400/1 200/1 200/1
To determine the PS and RSI of each relay based on the one-line diagram, assuming the Plug
Setting (PS) ranges from 50% to 200% in increments of 25%.
The formulas that will be used to determine the current setting are as follows.
𝑀𝑉𝐴 [1]
𝐼𝑁 =
√3 × 𝑉
𝐼𝑁 [2]
𝑃𝑆 > × 100
𝐶𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜
𝑃𝑆 [3]
𝑅𝑆𝐼 = 𝐶𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 ×
100
By using the stated formulas, the results are as follows.
Relay 1A Relay 1B Relay 2 Relay 3 Relay 4
𝐼𝑁 (A) 209.95 157.46 367.40 174.95 174.95
𝑃𝑆 (%) 150 75 100 100 100
𝑅𝑆𝐼 (A) 300 187.5 400 200 200
The formulas that will be used to determine the time setting are as follows.
𝐼𝐹 [4]
𝑃𝑆𝑀 =
𝑅𝑆𝐼
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0.14 [5]
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 =
𝑃𝑆𝑀0.02 − 1
𝑅𝑂𝑇 [6]
𝑇𝑆𝑀 =
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇
The time setting multiplier (TSM) for relays A1 & 1B is assumed set at 0.1s. The
discrimination time (DT) is set to 0.4s.
Relay 1A Relay 1B
2421 2421
𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 8.07 𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 12.91
300 187.5
0.14 0.14
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 3.28𝑠 𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 2.667𝑠
8.070.02 − 1 12.910.02 − 1
𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.1 × 3.28 = 0.328𝑠 𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.1 × 2.667 = 0.267𝑠
Relay 2 Relay 3
Fault at downstream of R1A & R1B Fault at downstream of R2
2421 11
𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 6.05 𝐼𝐹 = 3043 × = 1014.33𝐴
400 33
0.14 1014.33
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 3.82𝑠 𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 5.07
6.050.02 − 1 200
𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.328 + 0.4 = 0.728𝑠 0.14
0.728 𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 4.24𝑠
5.070.02 − 1
𝑇𝑆𝑀 = = 0.19 𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.74 + 0.4 = 1.14𝑠
3.82
Fault at downstream of R2 1.14
3043 𝑇𝑆𝑀 = = 0.27
𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 7.61 4.24
400 Fault at downstream of R3
0.14 1750
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 3.38𝑠 𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 8.75
7.610.02 − 1 200
𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.19 × 3.38 = 0.642𝑠 0.14
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 3.16𝑠
8.750.02 − 1
𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.27 × 3.16 = 0.85𝑠
Relay 4
Fault at downstream of R4
1750
𝑃𝑆𝑀 = = 8.75
200
0.14
𝑅𝐶𝑂𝑇 = = 3.16𝑠
8.750.02 − 1
𝑅𝑂𝑇 = 0.85 + 0.4 = 1.25𝑠
1.25
𝑇𝑆𝑀 = = 0.40
3.16
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4.4 Selection of CT ratio
CT ratio is determined based on the fault current value determined during short circuit
analysis.
These CT are selected based on Class 5P CT and suitable accuracy limit current. Setting are
determined basec on calculation in Section 4.3.
Figure 4: CT Setting for Bus 1A
Based on Figure 4, Relay 1A primary to secondary ratio is set to 250A:1A. This is based
on the load flow of 152.4 A.
Based on Figure 5, Relay 1B primary to secondary ratio is set to 200A:1A. This is based
on the load flow of 203.2 A.
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Figure 5: CT Setting for Bus 1B
Based on Figure 6, Relay 2 primary to secondary ratio is set to 400A:1A. This is based
on the load flow of 355.5 A.
Figure 6: CT Setting for Bus 2
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Figure 7: CT Setting for Bus 3
According to Figure 7, Relay 3 has a primary to secondary ratio of 200A:1A, determined by
the load flow of 174.95 A using a 10MVA transformer for rated load flow, despite the
simulation indicating only 82.2A. This ratio setting is significant as it impacts the relay's
response time.
10𝑀
𝐼𝑁 = = 174.95𝐴
√3 × 33𝑘
As shown in Figure 8, Relay 4 has a primary to secondary ratio of 200A:1A. This is
determined by a load flow of 174.95A using a 10MVA transformer, applying the same
reasoning as for Relay 3.
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Figure 8: CT Setting for Bus 4
In summary, the relay CT ratio for the system is presented in Table 2.
Table 2: CT ratio
Relay 1A Relay 1B Relay 2 Relay 3 Relay 4
CT ratio (A) 250/1 200/1 400/1 200/1 200/1
4.5 Pick-up (PU) setting and time dial settings
The sequence of each relay shall be known before determining the pick-up and time
dial settings, where the closest relay to the fault operates first, followed by upstream relays.
In this case study, the relay sequence as follows:
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Relay 1A Relay 1B Relay 2
Relay 4 Relay 3
The first relay pick-up and time dial setting is Relay 1A and Relay 1B, followed by Relay 2,
Relay 3, and lastly Relay 4. It is assumed that the Time Dial setting for Relay 1A and Relay
1B is set to 0.1. While the plug setting has a step of 25%.
Figure 9: Relay Setting for Relay 1A
Figure 9 shows that Relay 1A has a pick-up setting of 1.0 and a time dial setting of 0.1. The
Pickup Range of Relay 1A is set to 0.1-25 xCT Sec. The minimum current in the relay coil at
which the relay begins to operate is known as the pick-up current. For Relay 1A, the plug
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setting is set to 150%, based on calculation done in Section 4.3. These pick-up points and
time-dial settings are chosen to ensure that the relay performs its protective function
effectively.
Figure 10: Relay Setting for Relay 1B
Figure 10 shows the Relay 1B pick up setting which was selected to 1.0. The time dial setting
is set to 0.1 which is similar to Relay 1A. The Pickup Range of Relay 1B is set to 0.1-25 xCT
Sec.
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Figure 11: Relay Setting for Relay 2
Figure 10 shows that the pickup setting for Relay 2 was selected to be 1.0 (100%). The time
dial setting was chosen to be 0.74. This setting is based on the longest ROT time of Relay 1A,
which operates slower than Relay 1B. The Pickup Range for Relay 2 is set to 0.1-25 xCT
Sec.
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Figure 12: Relay Setting for Relay 3
Figure 12 shows that the pickup setting for Relay 3 was chosen to be 1.0 (100%), based on a
load flow derived from a 10 MVA transformer. The calculation is as follows:
10𝑀
𝐼𝑁 = = 174.95𝐴
√3 × 33𝑘
The time dial setting was selected to be 0.85s, based on a discrimination time of 0.4 seconds
from the ROT of Relay 2. The Pickup Range for Relay 3 is set to 0.1-25 xCT Sec.
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Figure 13: Relay Setting for Relay 4
Figure 13 shows that the pickup setting for Relay 4 was selected to be 1.0 (100%), based on
the load flow from the rated power of the transformer. The time dial setting of 0.24 was
chosen based on a discrimination time of 0.4 seconds from the ROT of Relay 3. The Pickup
Range for Relay 4 is set to 0.1-25 xCT Sec.
Based on the maximum current from load flow analysis, pick-up values for relays are
set slightly above this current to prevent unnecessary tripping under normal conditions. This
ensures the relays can differentiate between normal load variations and actual faults, enabling
reliable operation. The time dial settings determine the relay's operating time once the pick-
up current is exceeded, with values based on the relays' inverse definite time characteristics to
ensure faster response for higher fault currents.
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4.6 Time-Current coordination curve
Figure 14 shows the overall Time-Current coordination curve.
Relay X is set as the fastest TSM while relay Y set to be 0.4 seconds.
Figure 14: Time-Current coordination curve
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Based on the plotted curves, relay settings are fine-tuned to ensure that relays operate in the
correct sequence. This process involves iterative adjustments and simulations to achieve the
desired coordination.
Figure 15:Time-Current coordination curve for Relay
4.7 Confirmation of Relay Sequence
The simulation demonstrates that the IDMT relay is a relay that has an operating time
roughly proportional to the fault current. The operating time is controlled by adjusting the
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time delay setting. In the design of IDMT relay coordination, "inverse" indicates that a higher
current value results in a shorter time for the relay to trip the circuit breaker.
Below are relay sequence when fault are applied for each bus.
Figure 16: Fault at Bus 1A
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Figure 17: Fault at Bus 1B
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Figure 18: Fault at Bus 2
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Figure 19; Fault at Bus 3
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Figure 20: Fault at Bus 4
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5. CONCLUSION
This report outlines a comprehensive approach for coordinating overcurrent relays in
power distribution systems using ETAP software. By conducting load flow and short circuit
analyses, selecting appropriate CTs, setting relay parameters, effective protection and
coordination can be achieved. The simulations provided in this study illustrate how advanced
tools like ETAP can enhance the reliability and efficiency of protection schemes in modern
power networks. Future research can explore advanced technologies such as adaptive
protection, smart grid integration, and the use of AI for optimizing relay coordination.
6. REFERENCES
[1] J. Parmar, "Electrical Engineering Portal," 1 February 2013. [Online]. Available:
https://electrical-engineering-portal.com/types-and-applications-of-overcurrent-relay-1#6.
[Accessed 26 June 2024].
[2] R. Prenc, H. Bulat, M. Rojnić and D. Franković, "A Comprehensive Assessment of
Fundamental Overcurrent Relay Operation Optimization Function and Its Constraints," in
Energies, 2022.
[3] J. M. Gers and E. J. Holmes, Protection of Electricity Distribution Network (3rd Edition),
United Kingdom: The Institution of Engineering and Technology, London, United
Kingdom, 2011.
[4] S. Z. Mohamed and R. Idris, "Coordination of Overcurrent Relay in Distribution System,"
Elektrika Journal of Electrical Engineering, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 50-53, 2022.
[5] P. J. Palayil, I. Desai and D. Mangroliya, "ETAP Simulations of Adaptive Overcurrent
Protection Scheme for Distribution Network with Microgrids," in 11th International
Conference on Smart Cities and Green ICT Systems (, 2022.
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