Analysis of transient signatures of arc faults in power distribution systems via time-frequency analysis

This paper draws on an innovative, signal processing-based method that jointly analyzes the time and frequency domains and uses that information to characterize and distinguish the deadly arc faults from the normal operational faults. This paper introduces a variety of new power quality assessment tools developed with the purpose of both detecting an arc fault faster than has yet been done and distinguishing the arc fault from other normal load operations via time-localized spectral characterization. Based on the time and frequency localization of the arc faults, the time varying impedances of the arc fault are modeled in terms of harmonic sources. The accomplishment of these objectives would lead to new, advanced smart arc fault circuit breakers and the modeling & simulation of arc fault phenomena.