Tools and techniques for area relay coordination studies

Abstract

The paper covers several of the tools and techniques used by a protection engineer in a methodology to test and document the qualities of an area's transmission line protection. The documents can be a useful "legacy" for use by others in the future. The tools described are generally available to the present-day engineer. These tools include word processors, electronic spreadsheets and specialized relay coordination software. The techniques used by this protection engineer are part of a skill set developed through association with other practicing engineers, through study of literature on the subject and through individual experience in practicing the profession. The bottom line of this paper is that the area relay coordination studies should not be taken lightly. It requires detailed and methodical approach. These studies can be beneficial to various organizations in the electric utility.