Magnetic field sensing for 2D fault localization in underground power cables

Localizing faults in underground cables is a two-dimensional inverse problem, including the depth as the vertical dimension and the horizontal distance from the supply point. In this paper, a new approach based on magnetic field sensing is developed to accurately locate faults in underground cables without physically accessing them. Three types of fault are addressed, line-to-ground fault (LGF), leakage current fault (LCF), and line-to-line fault (LLF). Based on magnetic field sensing, the cable is first localized. Afterwards, the depth is calculated using the Quotient method and finally, the horizontal distance is determined using Kirchhoff's law (KVL). The simulation results show average errors of 5.25%, 4.77%, and 3.53% for LGF, LCF, and LLF. respectively, while the experimental results yield errors of 20% and 29% for LGF and LLF. These findings highlight the reliability of the proposed approach. Additionally, since the method requires only a single magnetic field sensing device with minimal computational effort, it offers a practical and cost-effective solution for the location of underground cable faults.