OptiCoord: Advancing directional overcurrent and distance relay coordination with an enhanced equilibrium optimizer

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Power Systems Protection
• Optimization Algorithms

Background:

• Coordination of directional overcurrent relays (DOCR) and distance relays is crucial for reliable power system operation.
• Traditional optimization methods face challenges in achieving optimal coordination and faster protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an enhanced equilibrium optimization (EEO) algorithm for solving the complex coordination problem between DOCR and distance relays.
• To improve the exploration capabilities and optimize parameters of the equilibrium optimization (EO) algorithm for better relay settings.
• To ensure sequential operation between main and backup relays.

Main Methods:

• Development of an enhanced equilibrium optimization (EEO) algorithm by optimizing the exploration-exploitation balance parameter.
• Application of the EEO algorithm to determine optimal settings for combined DOCR and distance relay coordination.
• Validation of the EEO algorithm's performance on standard test systems (8-bus, IEEE 30-bus, and IEEE 39-bus).

Main Results:

• The proposed EEO algorithm effectively solves the coordination problem for combined directional overcurrent and distance relays.
• EEO demonstrates superior performance compared to the traditional EO algorithm, overcoming its limitations.
• Faster protection was achieved, with a reduction ratio of approximately 12% compared to the traditional EO algorithm.

Conclusions:

• The EEO algorithm is a highly effective technique for optimizing the coordination of directional overcurrent and distance relays.
• The enhanced algorithm offers improved exploration and faster protection, making it a valuable tool for power system protection engineers.