Elevating depth detection of underground power system components: Unveiling the Quotient method

• Published in: Electric power systems research 2024-04, Vol.229, p.110168, Article 110168
• Main Authors: Ali, Hamid, Qamar, Aamir, Behram, Belawal, Ibrahim, Muhammad, Mumtaz, Faisal
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Depth; Magnetic field sensing; Quotient method; Substation grounding grid; Tower grounding conductor; Underground cables
• ISSN: 0378-7796; 1873-2046
• DOI: 10.1016/j.epsr.2024.110168

The localization of faults in underground power system components is a multi-dimensional challenge, with depth determination being a crucial dimension in fault localization. In response to this imperative need for precise fault localization, this study introduces the Quotient method utilizing magnetic field sensing to accurately determine the depth of underground power system components. By evaluating the ratio of horizontal and vertical magnetic field components above the ground, this method offers swift and accurate depth determination with minimal computational requirements. Simulations encompassing various components such as underground power cables, tower grounding conductors, and substation grounding grids demonstrate an average depth calculation error of approximately 7%, emphasizing its reliability. Comparative analysis with the state-of-the-art derivative method highlights the Quotient method’s advantages in terms of its non-derivative nature and reduced computational complexity, showcasing its potential for widespread implementation. Additionally, experimental test confirms the feasibility of the proposed method. The proposed method provides field operators with the advantage of using a single equipment setup for detecting depth across a wide spectrum of underground power components. This uniform approach streamlines operations by requiring a single set of knowledge and skills for utilizing the Quotient method, unlike other methods that often necessitate distinct equipment setups for different component detections, demanding varied expertise for each tool’s operation. This study fills a significant gap in fault localization techniques, presenting a practical solution that revolutionizes fault detection in underground power systems, ultimately ensuring enhanced reliability and efficiency in power supply maintenance. •Depth detection of underground power system components.•The Quotient Method is developed based on magnetic field sensing.•The proposed method gauges underground depths by computing the ratio of magnetic flux components.•The proposed method is simple, accurate, and suits diverse underground power components.•The feasibility of the proposed method is illustrated through simulations and experiments.•The proposed method is compared with the state-of-the-art derivative method.