Extension of Functions of Microprocessor-based Electric Energy Meters to Detect 10 kV Overhead Line Phase wire Breakage

With the development of Smart Grid, Smart Metering plays an important role in the energy system. Modern microprocessor-based electricity meters are the element of Smart Metering. In addition to measuring the main parameters of the network, they can perform a wide range of additional calculations, transfer the information to the data acquisition and processing center, and manage the load by sending commands for turning the consumers on or off. The phase wire breakage of an overhead line is the common damage in the electric power system with the voltage 10 kV. This damage causes not only power supply interruption, but also the threat of lives, electrically and fire hazardous situations. Despite the presence of a sufficiently large number of methods and protective devices for signaling or switching out the 10 kV damaged section, such devices have not found wide application in practice. The protection device at the phase wire breakage of the 10 kV overhead line, based on the microprocessor counter and endowed with additional functions, has been developed. This device was tested on a physical model and confirmed its operability.