Busbar Protection - Busbar Differential: Best Practice and Recommendations

European Network of
Transmission System Operators
for Electricity
BUSBAR PROTECTION - BUSBAR DIFFERENTIAL: BEST

PRACTICE AND RECOMMENDATIONS
04 December 2019
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Table of contents page

DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................. IV
ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................................................. IV
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................................................ V
LIST OF FIGURES ............................................................................................................................. VII
1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................1
2 BUS BAR PROTECTION: PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ...........................................................................1
FUNDAMENTALS ..................................................................................................................................................... 1
NUMERIC CURRENT DIFFERENTIAL, HIGH IMPEDANCE, STABILIZED, ETC................................................................................ 5
ARC PROTECTION (LIGHT SENSITIVE) ............................................................................................................................ 6
BUSBAR PROTECTION BLOCKING SCHEME SUPERVISION OR BLOCKING CRITERIA...................................................................... 7
BUSBAR SPLITTING ................................................................................................................................................... 8
DISTANCE PROTECTION ........................................................................................................................................... 11
ADDITIONAL TRIPPING CRITERIA FOR BBP DIFFERENTIAL ................................................................................................ 11
2.7.1 CHECK ZONE...................................................................................................................................................... 11
2.7.2 CURRENT DIRECTION ........................................................................................................................................... 11
2.7.3 PHASE UNDER-VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION ............................................................................................................ 12
2.7.4 VOLTAGE SEQUENCE COMPONENTS RELEASE CRITERION .............................................................................................. 12
2.7.5 NEUTRAL OVER VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION ........................................................................................................... 12
2.7.6 NEUTRAL OVER CURRENT RELEASE CRITERION ........................................................................................................... 13
2.7.7 OVERCURRENT RELEASE OF THE TRIP COMMAND ....................................................................................................... 13
2.7.8 OTHER TRIPPING CRITERIA .................................................................................................................................... 13
3 BUSBAR DIFFERENTIAL PROTECTION CONFIGURATION ..................................................... 14
CENTRALIZED ARRANGEMENT................................................................................................................................... 14
DECENTRALIZED ARRANGEMENT ............................................................................................................................... 14
4 SPECIAL BUSBAR ARRANGEMENTS/ COMPONENTS AND THEIR PROTECTION ..................... 15

THE ‘END FAULT’ PROTECTION ................................................................................................................................. 15
4.1.1 DEAD ZONE (BLIND SPOT) - A FAULT BETWEEN A CIRCUIT BREAKER AND A CURRENT TRANSFORMER..................................... 15
4.1.2 A FAULT IN A BUS COUPLER OR A SWITCHED BUSBAR .................................................................................................. 16
ON-LOAD BUSBAR CHANGEOVER.............................................................................................................................. 17
BUS COUPLER TIME DELAY...................................................................................................................................... 17
POLICY FOR ISOLATOR ALARM OR AUXILIARY CONTACT................................................................................................... 17
5 CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION (BFP) OPERATING PRINCIPLES ............................. 17

CONTINGENCY ARRANGEMENT IN CASE OF FAILURE OF BBP............................................................................................ 18
DIRECT AND SELECTIVE TRIPPING .............................................................................................................................. 19
6 PRINCIPLES OF SETTING/PARAMETERIZATION FOR BBP AND BFP........................................ 20
BBP SETTINGS AND COORDINATION FOR 1 ½ CONFIGURATION ....................................................................................... 22
7 ASSET MANAGEMENT ISSUES .................................................................................................. 23

BUSBAR PROTECTION INSPECTION ............................................................................................................................. 23
BUSBAR PROTECTION TESTING ................................................................................................................................. 23
REPLACEMENT OF BUSBAR PROTECTION ..................................................................................................................... 23
ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FUNCTIONS IN THE BUSBAR PROTECTION .................................................................................. 24
CERTIFICATION ..................................................................................................................................................... 24
FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TEST (FAT) ........................................................................................................................... 24
COMMISSIONING .................................................................................................................................................. 24
LIFE CYCLE ........................................................................................................................................................... 24
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8 REFERENCE OF STANDARDS CIGRE AND RELATED TECHNICAL BROCHURES ......................................... 24

9 EVENTS / MALOPERATIONS / CASE STUDIES ............................................................................... 25
CEPS’S EVENT ...................................................................................................................................................... 25
10 TSO’S QUESTIONNAIRE .................................................................................................... 27

Q.1 [QUESTION 1] SUBSTATION DESIGN ISSUES .................................................................................................. 27
Q2 DIFFERENTIAL BBP BASED POLICY ............................................................................................................... 28
Q3. BUSBAR PROTECTION CONFIGURATION .................................................................................................. 31
Q4. BUSBAR PROTECTION OPERATING PRINIPLES (DIFFERENTIAL ETC.) ........................................................... 33
10.4.1 Q4.1. ADDITIONAL TRIPPING CRITERIA FOR BBP DIFFERENTIAL .................................................................... 34
Q5. SPECIAL BBP ARRANGMENTS/COMPONENTS............................................................................................ 35
10.5.1 Q5.1. A FAULT IN A BAY BETWEEN A CB AND A CT.................................................................................................... 35
10.5.2 Q5.2. A FAULT IN BUS COUPLER BETWEEN CB AND CT .............................................................................................. 36
10.5.3 Q5.3. BUS COUPLER........................................................................................................................................... 36
10.5.4 Q5.4. 1 1/2 BREAKER CONFIGURATION SUBSTATIONS ............................................................................................. 37
10.5.5 Q5.5. SPECIAL PROTECTION SCHEMES SUPPORTING BBP OPERATION ............................................................................ 37
10.5.6 Q5.6. ISOLATOR ALARM OR AUXILIARY CONTACT ...................................................................................................... 37
Q6. CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION OPERATING PRINCIPLES. .......................................................... 37
Q7. PRINCIPLES OF SETTING/PARAMETERIZATION FOR BBP AND BFP............................................................... 38
10.7.1 Q7.1. BBP SETTINGS.......................................................................................................................................... 38
10.7.2 Q7.2. BFP SETTINGS .......................................................................................................................................... 39
10.7.3 Q7.3. OTHER SETTING PARAMETER OF BBP AND BFP ............................................................................................... 40
Q8. BBP - ASSET MANAGEMENT ISSUES .................................................................................................................... 41
10.8.1 Q.8.1. MAINTENANCE OF BBP – HOW IS IT IMPLEMENTED? FOR THE ENTIRE SUBSTATION, ONE AFTER THE OTHER BAY? ......... 42
10.8.2 Q.8.2. IS TRIPPING TEST APPLIED – WHICH IS THE POLICY/METHODOLOGY? .................................................................... 42
10.8.3 Q.8.3 BBP MAINTENANCE STRATEGY/HOW OFTEN IS THE DEVICE TESTED AND WHAT IS TESTED? ........................................ 43
10.8.4 Q.8.4 SPARE PARTS MANAGEMENT STRATEGY? ........................................................................................................ 43
10.8.5 Q.8.5 REPLACEMENTS OF ALL PROTECTION RELAYS THROUGHOUT A SUBSTATION WITH THE DECENTRALIZED BBP DESIGN. IS
BBP OUT OF OPERATION OR IS THERE SOM TEMPORARY OPERATIONS? DESCRIBE BRIEFLY THE OPERATION OF BBP DURING
SUCH A RECONSTRUCTION. ................................................................................................................................... 43
10.8.6 Q.8.6 ADDITIONAL BAY PROTECTION (BP) RELATED FUNCTION ON BAY UNITS (BU) ....................................................... 44
10.8.7 Q.8.7 IS THERE A CERTIFICATION PROCESS FOR THE BBP? (TENDER REQUIREMENT)........................................................ 44
10.8.8 Q.8.8 ARE FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TEST REQUIRED? WHY? ........................................................................................ 45
10.8.9 Q.8.9 WHAT IS YOUR QUALIFICATION OF THE PROCESS FOR COMMISSIONING? ............................................................... 45
10.8.10 Q.8.10 WHAT TESTS ARE PERFORMED DURING COMMISSIONING? ARE THE DONE WHEN THE SUBSTATION IS IN OPERATION OR
WHEN IT IS OUT OF SERVICE?................................................................................................................................. 45
10.8.11 Q.8.11 DO YOU DO PRIMARY CURRENT INJECTION TESTS? IF YES THEN HOW? BY AN OPERATION CURRENT OR BY A TEST
EQUIPMENT?..................................................................................................................................................... 46
10.8.12 Q.8.12 WHAT IS EXPECTED LIFETIME FOR DIFFERENT TECHNOLOGIES/WHAT ARE THE FAILURE RATES OF THE
EQUIPMENT/MAIN FAILURE MODES FOR DIFFERENT TYPE OF BUSBAR PROTECTIONS? PLEASE GIVE SOME FIGURES IN CASE THEY
ARE AVAILABLE. .................................................................................................................................................. 46
10.8.13 Q8.13. STATISTICS ABOUT NUMBER OF BUSBAR FAULT (PER SUBSTATION AND PER YEAR)/ NUMBER OF UNWANTED
TRIPS/AVAILABILITY ............................................................................................................................................. 47
Q9. OTHER ISSUES ........................................................................................................................................... 48
11 CONCLUSIONS ..................................................................................................................... 49
12 BIBLIOGRAPHY .................................................................................................................... 50
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DEFINITIONS
Busbar protection (BBP): Protection intended to detect and operate to clear faults on a busbar.
Circuit Breaker Failure (CBF) Protection: CBF protection is a backup protection in case the designated
Circuit Breakers failed to open and clear a fault; it will avoid circuit breaker redundancy
ABBREVIATIONS
87- Differential principle of protection (ANSI code)
AFP - Arc Fault Protection
AIS – Air Insulated Substation
AR – Auto Reclose
BBP – Busbar Protection
BBTR - Busbar Protection Trip Relays
BFP – Breaker Failure Protection
BP – Bay Protection
BTTRTR - Back Trip Receive Trip Relays
BU – Bay Unit
CB – Circuit Breaker
CBF – Circuit Breaker Failure
CT – Current Transformer
DAR – Delayed Auto Reclose
DBI – “Don’t Believe It”, INVALID (1, 1 or 0, 0 for Double Points Status of CBs or Disconnectors)
DC – Direct Current
FAT – Factory Acceptance Test
GIS – Gas Insulated Substation
HVDC – High Voltage Direct Current
ICTR - Interlocked Current Trip Relay
IED –Intelligent Electronic Device
MSCDN - Mechanically Switched Capacitor with Damping Network
OHL – Overhead Line
RES – Renewable Energy Source
S/S – Substation
SGT – Super Grid Transformer, Power Transformer
SVC – Static VAR Compensator (for reactive-power control)
TSO – Transmission System Operator
VT – Voltage Transformer
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This document has been developed by ENTSO-E and it is intended to present the fundamentals of the
busbar protection and all stages of its engineering (design, settings, commissioning and maintenance).
The report is based on responses received from European TSOs to a questionnaire on busbar
protection. It presents the statistical findings of these responses and exploits the experience of TSOs in
busbar protection.
The overall engineering and the management of busbar protection is of great importance to electrical
utilities as busbar faults are of great importance to the safety and the stability of the transmission
system. Busbar protection may simultaneously trip a number of bus segments or even an entire busbar
of a substation and the fast elimination of busbar faults is critical to ensure that the transmission
system does not suffer from severe shocks. The failure of protection operating or any unwanted
tripping may also lead to severe consequences in a transmission system. Although busbar protection is
quite expensive and complicated, its features may save equipment and even people’s lives.
A busbar protection system should dynamically replicate the bus topology and contain design flexibility
to protect all existing bus arrangements. In general, the main requirements for busbar protection
include security, dependability, speed, sensitivity and selectivity. All these requirements are
interrelated; therefore, it is not possible to satisfy one without affecting the other. The design solution
should meet the requirements that correspond to the importance of the substation within the
network and the layout of the substation.
The dominating protection principle of busbar protection is the differential principle. The main types of
differential current protection relays are low-impedance and high-impedance differential protection.
Low-impedance differential principle is mostly used, although, the high-impedance differential
principle is still used by some system operators. Both types of differential current protection relays
have advantages and disadvantages. The low-impedance deferential protection relays are frequently
numeric and more flexible which allows to protect substations with complex schemes. Low-impedance
deferential protection relays can stay in operation even during the reconstruction of substations when
usually some temporary operation is needed. On the other hand, high-impedance relays can be more
easily extended because there is no need to add new analogue inputs. They also need less mounting
space and are less expensive. In addition, the hardware for low-impedance differential relays can be
shared with breaker failure protection, so costs of these relays can be easily reduced. Each end user
should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages and choose the best solution based on the
intended application and installation.
Other busbar arrangements, reliability principles and tripping criteria which support the functionality
of busbar protection (check zone logic, the directional principle, the saturation detection, voltage and
current release criterion and built in circuit breaker failure) must be considered in the design and
configuration of the breaker failure protection. Centralized or decentralized types are equivalently
used depending on the local conditions. Aspects like the number of bays; integrated protection
functions; distance between central unit and bay units; EMC problems; maintenance; function testing
and design should also be considered. The redundancy level should be a function of the critical clearing
time and if this is less than typical remote backup clearing times then busbar protection must installed.
High penetration of power electronics at the connection interface and the existence of GIS or AIS
substations should also be considered in the design and management of busbar protection.
Concerning planning great concern is devoted to the location of installation of busbar protection and
there are a variety of tactics. Most companies try to install busbar protection as much as possible to
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avoid the clearance of the busbar faults by the second zone of the distance relays. However, double
busbar protection is not the rule and its policy is managed and/or executed by the companies.
Under normal conditions, a switchgear cannot be switched off completely to check the busbar
protection, making asset management issues critical for the BBP protection. As busbar protection is a
system of the entire busbar, a suitable test strategy must be defined. A general recommendation of
how to test a busbar protection is difficult to provide as it depends on the type of protection system,
on the topology and on the risk or consequence of a false trip.
If the busbar protection must be replaced, the protection system usually must be switched off for a
certain time. A parallel operation of the existing and the new busbar protection is very complex and
involves many provisional steps (risks of false tripping). For this reason, the necessary deactivation of
the busbar protection must be kept as short as possible. During the time when no busbar protection is
in operation, the activation of a reverse zone in the distance protection can provisionally replace the
busbar protection.
Components of the protection system (bay unit or central unit) may fail as with other protection
devices. For this reason, it is advisable to have spares in case of failure, the spares must also be
checked periodically. If applicable, spares for several substations can be stored centrally.
As a rule, the network operator provides a detailed technical specification for busbar protection. In
addition to the protection-relevant requirements, the specification also contains additional
requirements such as for the communication interface (e.g. IEC61850 Edition2) or quality management
(ISO9001).
The life cycle of busbar protection systems is approximately 20 years and the number and rate of
failures of hardware components is identical to that of numerical protection devices.
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LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1: DIFFERENTIAL (OBJECT ORIENTED) PROTECTION PRINCIPLE .................................................................... 3
FIGURE 2: SIMPLE CURRENT DIFFERENTIAL SCHEME WITH PARALLELED CTS ........................................................... 4
FIGURE 3: CROSS-SECTION OF AN AIR INSULATED SWITCHGEAR UNIT WITHIN OPTICAL SENSORS ......................... 6
FIGURE 4: SYSTEM DIAGRAM OF A GENERIC ARC GUARD INCLUDES BOTH OPTICAL AND CURRENT DETECTORS ... 7
FIGURE 5: DOUBLE BUSBAR WITH TRANSFER BUS .................................................................................................... 9
FIGURE 6: MESH BUSBAR SCHEME AND BBP AT MESH SCHEME ............................................................................... 9
FIGURE 7: ONE AND A HALF BREAKER SCHEME ....................................................................................................... 10
FIGURE 8: PROTECTION SCHEME OF BUSBAR PROTECTION OF A SUBSTATION WITH THE CONFIGURATION OF
1 ½ BREAKER ......................................................................................................................................... 10
FIGURE 9: UNDER-VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION ................................................................................................... 12
FIGURE 10: NEUTRAL OVER-VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION .................................................................................... 13
FIGURE 11: FAULT IN THE DEAD ZONE ..................................................................................................................... 15
FIGURE 12: FAST BUT NOT SELECTIVE PROTECTION OF BUS COUPLERS AND SWITCHED BUSBARS ....................... 16
FIGURE 13: SELECTIVE BUT DELAYED PROTECTION OF BUS COUPLERS AND SWITCHED BUSBARS ........................ 16
FIGURE 14: BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION ............................................................................................................ 18
FIGURE 15: BBP TRIPPING CHARACTERISTIC ............................................................................................................ 21
FIGURE 16: THE SITUATION JUST BEFORE THE BUSBAR FAULT ............................................................................... 26
FIGURE 17: CHART - SUBSTATION DESIGN CONFIGURATION ................................................................................. 28
FIGURE 18: DO YOU HAVE DIFFERENTIAL BBP PROTECTIONS AT ALL SUBSTATIONS (S/S)? .................................... 29
FIGURE 19: VOLTAGE LEVEL LACKING BBP? ............................................................................................................. 29
FIGURE 20: CRITERION NOT HAVING BBP IN S/S ..................................................................................................... 30
FIGURE 21: DIFFERENCES IN BBP AT S/S FEEDING RES VS. THOSE FEEDING CONVENTIONAL GENERATING
PLANTS? ................................................................................................................................................ 31
FIGURE 22: BUSBAR PROTECTION CONFIGURATION ............................................................................................... 31
FIGURE 23: POWER SUPPLY TYPE FOR SINGLE BUSBAR PROTECTION ..................................................................... 32
FIGURE 24: BUSBAR PROTECTION OPERATING PRINCIPLES .................................................................................... 34
FIGURE 25: ADDITIONAL TRIPPING CRITERIA FOR BBP DIFFERENTIAL .................................................................... 34
FIGURE 26: A FAULT IN A BAY BETWEEN A CIRCUIT BREAKER AND A CURRENT TRANSFORMER ELIMINATED
BY? ........................................................................................................................................................ 36
FIGURE 27: BUS COUPLER SPLITTING POLICY .......................................................................................................... 36
FIGURE 28: CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION (BFP) OPERATING PRINCIPLES ............................................. 38
FIGURE 29: BBP PARAMETRIZATION/SETTINGS RESOURCES ................................................................................... 38
FIGURE 30: CRITERIA FOR SETTING OF THE MINIMUM DIFFERENTIAL CURRENT OF BUSBAR PROTECTION .......... 39
FIGURE 31: THE CRITERION OF STARTING SIGNAL FOR BFP .................................................................................... 40
FIGURE 32: THE CRITERION FOR SETTING OF THE MINIMUM CURRENT FOR BREAKER FAILURE DETECTION,
PHASE OR THREE PHASE DETECTION? .................................................................................................. 40
FIGURE 33: MAINTENANCE OF BBP – HOW IS IT IMPLEMENTED? .......................................................................... 42
FIGURE 34: BBP MAINTENANCE STRATEGY/HOW OFTEN IS THE DEVICE TESTED? ................................................. 43
FIGURE 35: EXPECTED LIFETIME FOR NUMERICAL BBP IN YEARS ............................................................................ 46
FIGURE 36: NUMBER OF BUSBAR FAULTS - YEARS TO BUSBAR FAULT. FAULTY TRIPS ARE NOT INCLUDED ........... 47
FIGURE 37: NUMBER OF UNWANTED TRIPS FROM BUSBAR PROTECTIONS ........................................................... 48
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1 INTRODUCTION
Busbar faults are directly related and interlinked with the safety and the stability of the transmission
systems. Their fast elimination assures the successful withstanding of the transmission system to
severe shocks [3]. Busbar protection may simultaneously trip a number of bus segments or even an
entire busbar of a substation which may then lead to the loss of important assets. If generation or big
loads are connected to the busbar the energy balance of the system may be suddenly endangered.
Consequently, the failure to tripping or any unwanted tripping may lead to severe consequences on
the power system.
This document has been developed by ENTSO-E and it is intended to present the fundamentals of the
busbar protection and all stages of its engineering (design, settings, commissioning and
maintenance). The report is based on responses received from European TSOs to a questionnaire on
busbar protection. It presents the statistical findings of these responses and exploits the experience
of TSOs in busbar protection.
Chapter 2 presents a brief description of the principles of function of the busbar protection.
Chapter 3 documents the various configurations and architectures of busbar protections.
Chapter 4 analyses the protection of specific components of the buses (Eg. busbar couplers,
segments between components, etc.) with the objective of covering all of the elements involved and
even optimal overlapping regarding their protection.
Chapter 5 is exclusively devoted to a very important protection, usually interlinked with busbar
differential protection, the circuit breaker failure protection.
Chapter 6 gives guidance concerning the setting and the parameterisation of the busbar differential
protection.
Chapter 7 covers issues in relation to the asset management of the busbar differential protection, Eg.
principles in relation to testing, maintenance, lifecycle and refurbishment.
Chapter 8 makes reference to Standards (CENELEC, IEC, ENTSO-E / EU regulations etc) concerning
busbar (differential) protection as well as to brochures of related international organizations like
CIGRE, IEEE etc.
Chapter 9 discusses a case concerning maloperation of busbar protection and the “lessons learned”.
Chapter 10 includes the statistical appraisal / presentation of the responses of the TSOs to the
distributed survey about busbar protections.
Finally, Chapter 11 summarizes the conclusions and recommendations.
The report is accompanied by a related reference / bibliography list (Chapter 12) with books, papers,
presentations, brochures etc. concerning busbar differential protection.
2 BUS BAR PROTECTION: PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

FUNDAMENTALS
Busbar protection systems protect substation busbars and associated equipment from the
consequences of short-circuits and earth faults. In the long ago early days of power system
development no separate protection device was used for busbar protection. Remote end-line
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protections served as the main protection for busbar faults. As a result of increased network short-
circuit capacity, dedicated differential relays for busbar protections have been applied to minimize
the tripping time of the protection and to limit the damage caused by high fault currents. Today,
busbar protection systems are used [7]. and even double busbar protections may be applied.
The generic transmission systems’ key issues i.e. reliability, operability, maintainability and cost need
to be addressed when designing a substation and selecting a busbar configuration and consequently
a busbar protection scheme. At EHV/HV levels, solutions that provide a high degree of reliability can
be justified. A busbar protection system should dynamically replicate the bus topology. It should also
contain sufficient design flexibility to protect all existing bus arrangements. In general, the main
requirements for busbar protection include:
• Security - probability of an unnecessary protection operation for through faults (“Out-of-
Zone” faults) is low.
• Dependability - probability that the protection will not operate for a fault on the bus (“In-
Zone faults”) is low.
• Speed – high-speed operation is required to limit equipment damage, and to preserve
system transient stability.
• Sensitivity – the ability to detect and clear high resistance faults.
• Selectivity – the ability to isolate only the faulty bus section.
All these requirements are interrelated; therefore, it is not possible to satisfy one without affecting
the other. The design solution should meet the requirements that correspond to the Importance of
the substation within the network and the layout of the substation.
The dominated protection principle of busbar protection is the differential principle. The
fundamental general principle of differential protection of a “single object” is illustrated in FIGURE 1
bellow. In the place of “object” a generator, a transformer, a bus arrangement, a reactor, a line or a
cable etc. can be considered. Of course the differential protection of each one of this type of
components has additional specific peculiarities, but the fundamental principle is the same.
The affection of the measured and compared currents flowing “into” the protected object due to a
fault is presented.
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FIGURE 1: Differential (object oriented) protection principle

Concerning busbar differential and for simplicity a simple bus with four feeders in the protection
zone are shown. Multiple circuits exist for the components connected to busbars, but the principle is
the same. The sum of the currents flowing in essentially equals the sum off the currents flowing out
during normal operation.
The protection concept for all bus differential relay schemes is based on Kirchhoff’s First Law that the
sum of all currents at the common point of connection, at any instant in time, is equal to zero. In
particular, for bus differential protection this means that the sum of currents that flow from the
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source to the bus must be equal to the sum of all currents that flow from the bus to the load. If this is
not satisfied, an internal fault (“In-Zone” fault) has occurred. However, in actual applications, bus
differential relays could unintentionally operate when there is no fault on the protected bus. This
might happen when faults in the power system cause high currents to flow through the protected
bus causing saturation of some iron-cored CTs that provide information to the relay about the
magnitude of the primary currents. Saturated CTs will provide false information, reporting smaller
current magnitudes than there actually are. As a result, the relay will derive “differential” current
that actually does not exist. To avoid unnecessary operation, manufacturers use different algorithms
to achieve relay stability during CT saturation.
Kirchoff’s current law states that the vectorial sum of all currents at a node or bus is equal to zero.
This principle is applied to bus protection in power system networks. Current transformers (CTs) are
installed to monitor all currents entering and leaving a bus through the normal circuits connected to
the bus. A bus differential protection scheme, regardless of the type of relay used, simply compares
the current entering the bus with the current leaving the bus. Any difference in the current entering
and leaving the bus, above some predetermined threshold, is an indication of a bus fault that must
be isolated quickly. Bus differential relays perform this function by detecting the differential current
and tripping all breakers directly associated with the bus to isolate the fault. Unlike transformer
differential relay schemes, the bus differential relay does not need to provide magnitude or phase
angle compensation because of transformer winding ratios and connections. Likewise, bus
differential schemes do not have to contend with magnetizing inrush currents that require
transformer bus differential relay schemes to employ harmonic blocking, restraint, or other
waveform recognition techniques. On the surface, bus differential schemes should be very simple to
apply. A simple bus differential scheme can be implemented by paralleling CTs from all circuit
breakers on the bus, in which case the sum of the current on each phase for all normal through-load
and external through-fault conditions is zero, as shown in FIGURE 2. The first complication arises
because all paralleled CTs must have the same ratio to ensure that all secondary currents are
compared on the same base as the primary currents.
FIGURE 2: Simple current differential scheme with paralleled CTs
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The relay in this simple bus differential scheme could use a simple, instantaneous overcurrent
element set with a very sensitive pickup, because ideally no current flows to the relay under normal
through-load and through-fault conditions. This, of course, assumes that all paralleled CTs not only
have the same ratio but that they also perform identically under all conditions, including external
faults with heavy through current and asymmetrically offset waveforms caused by high source X/R
ratios. The reality is that all conventional iron-core current transformers, regardless of ratio and
accuracy class, are susceptible to saturation, during which time their secondary output current fails
to accurately represent the primary current flowing in the bus. This causes a difference current that
the differential relay may interpret as an internal fault. Bus differential relays, regardless of the
design, must differentiate between true internal bus faults and false differential currents caused by
CT saturation for a fault outside the bus differential zone of protection
NUMERIC CURRENT DIFFERENTIAL, HIGH IMPEDANCE, STABILIZED, ETC.

In the previous paragraph there was mentioned that the dominated principle of bus bar protection is
the current differential principle. It is because of its great sensitivity. In this time mostly numeric
current differential relays are used, because the microprocessor technology improves bus bar
protection performance and economy. It is easy to change their settings in case of changing of either
configuration of a substation or parameters of CTs. Using the modern technology allows to protect
even substations with complex schemes and to let their protection stay in operation even during
reconstruction of substations when usually some temporary operation is needed. An important
feature of numerical relays is the in-built monitoring system so faults within the equipment can be
detected and alarmed.
The main types of differential current protection relays are:
• low-impedance differential protection
• high-impedance differential protection
Today mostly the low-impedance differential principle is used, although, the high-impedance
differential principle is still used by some system operators.
Both types of differential current protection relays have some advantages and disadvantages. For
example the advantages mentioned above are mostly true for low-impedance relays. On the other
hand high-impedance relays can usually be more easily extended because there is no need to add
new analogue inputs, they need less mounting space and they are less expensive. Nevertheless, the
hardware for low-impedance differential relays can be shared with breaker failure protection, so
costs of these relays can be easily reduced. Each end user has to evaluate them and choose the best
solution based on the intended application and installation.
Because CTs can be prone to saturation during severe faults and because there are small differences
in CT performance, it is recommended they should use some kind of stabilization or additional
criteria for tripping. It is particularly possible if low-impedance relays are used.
The most common kind of stabilization of low-impedance differential relays compares the differential
current which is a vector sum of currents from all CT inputs with arithmetical sum of these currents.
The bigger the arithmetical sum of currents is the bigger differential current is needed for the relay
to operate.
The other supplemental protection function, such as end-zone fault detection, breaker failure
detection, and open or shorted CT detection are recommended.
If there is a fault between a CB and the CT associated witch the CB, the fault cannot be interrupted
by opening all of breakers in the substation. The end-zone protection logic determines the breaker is
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open, but the current through the CT has not gone to zero. The logic sends a transfer trip to the
breaker at the remote end to interrupt the last source of fault current. The other possibility is to send
a teleprotection signal to distance relays on the remote end immediately when BBP operates. It will
accelerate the operation of the distance relays.
An open or shorted CT in a low-impedance scheme produces a differential current, which is
proportional to the load current on the circuit with the faulty CT. With low-impedance relays, the
setting can eliminate differential current under normal load condition, so a current threshold can be
set sensitively to detect an opened or shorted CT. This threshold can be used to alarm, disable the
BBP or trip the bus. A more sophisticated method can detect the change in differential and restraint
current. The loss of a CT output current results in an increase in differential current and a decrease in
restraint current.
The additional tripping criteria are described in a chapter hereafter.
ARC PROTECTION (LIGHT SENSITIVE)

The arc fault protection technique employed for the fast clearance of arcing faults on busbar, circuit
breaker compartments and associated cable boxes on the air insulated metal clad medium and low
voltage switchgear.
FIGURE 3: Cross-section of an air insulated switchgear unit within optical sensors
Arc Flash Detection Methods [4]

An arcing fault instantaneously releases large amounts of radiant energy, including both light and
thermal energy. The light intensity resulting from an arc can be thousands of times higher than
normal ambient light. An arc flash detection relay takes advantage of this phenomenon to achieve
significantly faster response times—thereby affording significantly greater protection from damage—
than the conventional relay.
Conventional current based protection techniques are at times challenged by the nature of arcing
faults and can result in slow protection clearance times. Slow protection clearance times increase the
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risk to nearby personnel and increase the degree of damage to plant and equipment. By employing
an optical detection technique, Arc Fault Protection (AFP) results in fast clearance of arcing faults.
The AFP can detect arc-flash events and send a trip signal from 2 up 4 ms if using high speed output
contacts or 15 ms for relay contacts.
Although detecting light is perhaps the easiest and fastest detection method, many systems detect
two and sometimes a combination of three or more parameters (i.e. light, current and sound). The
most efficient, cost effective, and therefore the most commonly used method combines the
detection of light and current.
Arc Flash Detection System
The primary components of an arc flash detection system (light and current detector) are the arc
monitor unit, control unit, optical detector, current detector and current transformer. The control
unit receives signals from both a high-sensitivity light detector and the upstream current
transformer, enabling it to determine whether to trigger the circuit breaker. Clearly, this signalling
process must be both fast and reliable to minimize danger and damage. Fiber optics, with its inherent
speed and EMI immunity, makes it a perfect medium for an arc flash detection system.
FIGURE 4: System diagram of a generic arc guard includes both optical and current detectors
The optical detector unit includes an optical emitter and receiver, an optical sensor in the form of a
bare fiber loop, and fiber optic cable. The optical sensor collects the flash light and transfers it via
fiber optic cable to the fiber optic receiver, which converts the optical signal to an electrical signal
that informs the control system when an arc flash is occurring.
There are two types of optical sensors commonly used in such systems: the point sensor and the loop
sensor. The point sensor approach uses a light sensor and an optical receiver to detect light in a given
area, while the loop sensor uses a loop of bare fiber positioned strategically throughout the
equipment.
BUSBAR PROTECTION BLOCKING SCHEME SUPERVISION OR BLOCKING CRITERIA
The unavailability of a differential busbar protection in a substation can be critical for the grid
regarding the stability of the nearby power plant units. Operating reliability is also required in case of
short circuit in the substation : it is forbidden to lose an entire substation in case of malfunction of
the busbar protection.
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It is therefore necessary to monitor in real time the proper functioning of the busbar protection. It is
required to verify that the acquisition of the input quantities is correct and that the internal
components of the protection are functional.
The main busbar protection fault supervision functions are mostly the following: faulty current
measurement detection, faulty disconnector position detection and internal component failure
detection.
For the reliable operation of busbar protection this supervision functions are continuously running
and protect the busbar protection from false tripping. These supervision features are presented now.
First of all, current measurement supervision monitors in real time the following currents computed
by the protection: the differential currents, the zone differential currents and the check zone
differential current.
When a faulty current is detected, the actions can be:
• Alarm (possibly delayed),
• Full Busbar Protection blocking (full blocking or only for the phase concerned by the faulty
differential current),
• Partially (Zone) Busbar Protection blocking (only for the zone concerned by the faulty
differential current and only for the phase concerned).
Likewise, disconnector position supervision monitor in real time the faulty disconnector position
replica and the wrong disconnector position detection (mistaken position).
Internal components failure supervision is also required as for any protection. This supervision
monitor the following points: components failure (watchdog), link between bay failure (for
decentralized arrangement), power supply failure…
When a faulty disconnector position or an internal component failure is detected, the actions can be
the same: alarm (possibly delayed) or full (partially) busbar protection blocking
BUSBAR SPLITTING
A busbar differential protection is characterized by its protecting zones, which refer to bus segments
being isolated by circuit breakers in case of busbar faults. Purpose is to isolate –after a fault- only the
busbar part feeding the fault. When more than one protection zone at the busbar protection is
applied, a busbar splitting strategy is used.
The positions of the CT are structuring to get the optimal splitting strategy. Indeed, in case of a
busbar fault, the busbar protection performs the tripping of the CB only for the corresponding busbar
section (the busbar section is boarded by CT with regard to measurement and by CB with regard to
tripping).
The CBs and disconnector positions are also needed to apply the correct differential current
computation and busbar splitting operation in case of fault. It is indeed useful to use several
measuring zone to obtain the best selectivity.
Several busbar switching schemes are available and there are many variants of each scheme [2]
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Some examples:
Double Busbar with Transfer Bus
FIGURE 5: Double Busbar with Transfer Bus

To apply a selective busbar protection strategy, position inputs are required on each disconnector
and circuit breaker to select the correct differential current measurements for the different zones
and get the correct busbar splitting in case of fault.
Mesh busbar scheme

For mesh busbar scheme, the protection shown consists of a fully selective scheme with a busbar
differential protection at each corner. A fault at any corner trips the two breakers associated with
that corner and also initiates any intertripping necessary to open circuit breakers at opposite ends.
FIGURE 6: Mesh busbar scheme and BBP at Mesh scheme
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One and a Half Breaker Scheme
FIGURE 7: One and a Half Breaker Scheme

When busbar protection is required, then each busbar is considered individually and a single busbar
scheme applied to each as shown.
It is possible to use more complex scheme that can protect the entire substation selectively:
FIGURE 8: Protection scheme of busbar protection of a substation with the configuration of 1 ½

breaker
In that case it is necessary to install three more CTs with bay units of busbar protection in every
branch of the substation. Further, direct trips to remote substations shall be sent. Faults in branches
can be selectively detected and switched off.
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DISTANCE PROTECTION
Distance protection relays are mostly used for busbar protection backup (or during maintenance of
the busbar differential protection).
Different choices are possible to use distance protection:
- Use of zone 2 of distance protection from the opposite end of the overhead lines or
underground cables,
- Use of reverse zone (oriented towards the busbar) for the transformers distance protection
or overhead lines distance protection,
- Use of distance protection to trip coupling circuit breaker (with blocking scheme between
distance protection for the ring substation topology)
During maintenance period of busbar differential protection, it can be needed to modify distance
protection settings (X-reaches, R-reaches or grading times).
These setting modifications are sometimes needed to ensure the stability of the generator in the
area or to ensure the integrity of GIS busbar in case of fault during busbar differential protection
maintenance.
ADDITIONAL TRIPPING CRITERIA FOR BBP DIFFERENTIAL

2.7.1 CHECK ZONE
To avoid maloperation resulting from disconnector auxiliary contact failures, substation configuration
can require use of an additional trip criterion such as a check zones. The measuring system for the
check zone detects a short circuit in the entire busbar. In this case, the disconnector positions are not
considered. The disconnector positions must be considered in conjunction with the check zone only
in special cases, for example, for transfer busbars or combined busbars.
Conceptually, an entire substation is treated as a single node, and the currents into the node are
summed in accordance with Kirchhoff’s current law. Regardless of the status of the disconnect
switches, a fault is indicated if the check zone currents do not sum to zero. If the normal differential
operating current is non-zero and the check zone operating current is zero, the most probable cause
is a faulty disconnect status contact. Check zone supervision of the normal differential element
significantly reduces the chance of a false trip.
2.7.2 CURRENT DIRECTION

There are several other options for a second trip criterion to supervise the differential element. In an
advanced differential relay, a directional element can provide additional security during an external
fault with CT saturation. During such an event, fault current contributions flow through each of the
not faulted terminals and aggregate in the faulted terminal, causing the CT on the faulted terminal to
saturate. This results in a false operating current. However, the current in the faulted terminal is out
of phase with the other zone currents, indicating an external fault. The directional element chooses
one of the currents as a reference quantity and calculates the phase angles of the other currents with
respect to the reference. The element declares an internal fault only if all the currents are
substantially in phase. This declaration can supervise the normal differential element.
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2.7.3 PHASE UNDER-VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION

The busbar protection tripping command is released by under-voltage function. The under-voltage
function senses voltage collapse during short circuit on a busbar. In case of current transformer
circuit failure in a bay the missing current will cause differential current in the measuring element
and it can cause unwanted trip of this busbar section. In order to avoid this faulty trip the measuring
element can trip the busbar section, if the under-voltage release criterion is fulfilled.
FIGURE 9: Under-voltage release criterion

The evaluation of the busbar can be accomplished by two different methods (see above Figure).
Version 1: With the VT. ‘V (delta)- Arrangement’, the phase-to-phase voltages can be evaluated. The
busbar system measures the values of the phase voltages UL1-L2, UL1-L3 and UL3-L1.
Version 2: With the VT. ‘Y (star)- Arrangement’, the phase-to-phase voltages and the phase to ground
voltages can be evaluated.
2.7.4 VOLTAGE SEQUENCE COMPONENTS RELEASE CRITERION

Voltage elements can be used to indicate whether a fault has occurred near a protected bus. A fault
generally reduces the positive-sequence voltage magnitude (balanced and unbalanced faults) and
increases the zero sequence and negative-sequence voltage magnitudes (unbalanced faults). These
signatures can be used to supervise a differential element, but they are not as selective as a check
zone or a directional element because they cannot distinguish between faults that are internal or
external to the protection zone.
2.7.5 NEUTRAL OVER VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION

A ‘neutral over voltage release criterion’ should be considered for impedance grounded networks.
Under normal operation, or during a phase-to-phase fault condition, without ground connection, the
neutral voltage (sum of the phase to ground voltages) is almost zero. A ground fault in an impedance
grounded network is characterized by the fact that the neutral voltage reaches a certain value very
quickly. The amplitude of the voltage value depends on the relationship between the fault resistance
and the grounding impedance.
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FIGURE 10: Neutral over-voltage release criterion
2.7.6 NEUTRAL OVER CURRENT RELEASE CRITERION

A ‘neutral over current release criterion’ only has to be considered for impedance grounded
networks. Under normal operation, or during a phase-to-phase fault condition without ground
connection, the neutral current is zero. A ground fault in an impedance grounded network is
characterized by the fact that a current will exist in the transformer neutral. The amplitude of the
current value depends on the relationship between the fault resistance and the grounding
impedance.
2.7.7 OVERCURRENT RELEASE OF THE TRIP COMMAND

In order to ensure that the BBP acts during faults, the net overcurrent flowing through the feeders is
assessed (active feeders), in order to distinguish if an internal fault has occurred while passive
feeders are left un-tripped. So, this criterion must be simultaneously truth additionally to the
differential current.
2.7.8 OTHER TRIPPING CRITERIA

2.7.8.1 BUILD IN CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION
The advantages of integrating the BF function with the distance relays are double.
First, cost saving at the construction phase; saving panel space by eliminating some panels and
reducing requirements for the size of the control house; eliminating wiring, drafting, construction
and commissioning labour; and saving in period of maintenance by supervising less equipment.
Second, by reducing wiring and maloperations, increasing reliability and increasing availability of BFP,
also reducing the total fault clearing time under BF conditions.
With security taking precedence over dependability for BF protection, two key aspects need to be
considered when designing a BF scheme. Because it is a backup function for the breaker (including its
tripping path), some may prefer for the BF protection to use hardware and firmware independent
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from the zone relay and a separate tripping path. This preference is naturally met when using a
standalone BF relay.
Integrating the BF function in multiple zone relays allows biasing the scheme for more security or
more dependability compared with standalone BF protection, depending on the specific architecture
selected and willingness to accept extra inter-relay signalling and associated complexity.
3 BUSBAR DIFFERENTIAL PROTECTION CONFIGURATION

CENTRALIZED ARRANGEMENT
Numerical centralized busbar protection can be found in new substations as well as where retrofit of
old conventional BBP was made and the cables were still in good condition. In a numerical
centralized arrangement the amount of cabling is approximately the same as it was in conventional
arrangements. A reduction can only be made, if additional protection functions are gathered in the
busbar protection relay (e.g. busbar- and circuit breaker failure protection). The advantage of using
numerical protection equipment is the easy adoption of functionality and simple arrangements of
I/O. Furthermore, the numerical technique allows fast and easy connection with substation
automation systems which allow fast fault analysis and monitoring.
DECENTRALIZED ARRANGEMENT
In the past, before numerical de-centralized busbar protection was available, busbar protections
were constructed centrally. All process data, such as CT currents, isolator positions and tripping
channels had to be wired back towards the central position of the busbar protection panel.
Considerable interconnection (such as start circuit breaker failure protection, block autoreclosure,
etc.) between the other protection panels had to be made. In those conventional arrangements,
many cables had to be used, the engineering, commissioning and maintenance was quite time
consuming and costly.
A vertical comparison of centralized vs. decentralized is shown in TABLE 1.
Subject CENTRALIZED DECENTRALIZED

Pros Cons Pros Cons
Number of bays limited, less than 10 over 20 bays
Other integrated BFP, Pole discordance BFP, Pole
protection functions discordance, I>, U<,
Z<, etc.
Distance between limited in some 100 m at list 1 km
Central unit and the
bay
EMC problem Yes, because of No, because of fiber
copper wires optic connection,
bay units are located
in relay houses
Maintenance, function Simple, all function More complicated
test in the central unit because of the
decentralised location
Design Simple, one unit More units, power
supply, etc.
TABLE 1: vertical comparison between BBP Centralized and Decentralized arrangements

To apply the centralised or decentralised arrangement, these aspects have to take into account.
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4 SPECIAL BUSBAR ARRANGEMENTS/ COMPONENTS AND

THEIR PROTECTION
THE ‘END FAULT’ PROTECTION
4.1.1 DEAD ZONE (BLIND SPOT) - A FAULT BETWEEN A CIRCUIT BREAKER AND A CURRENT
TRANSFORMER
To cater for a fault in a bay between a circuit breaker and a current transformer (“small zone” fault),
the ‘end fault’ protection functionality should be provided for all bays except bus
sections/couplers/shunt equipment to protect the zone located between the CT and the circuit
breaker, when the CB is open.
The Small-zone faults between CTs and circuit breakers are normally detected by the busbar
protection but tripping of the circuit breaker will not clear the fault. This is addressed by the
application of CB Fail or an interlocked overcurrent relay depending on the voltage.
Circuits using “end fault” protection shall prevent busbar zone tripping for small-zone faults and only
intertrip the respective remote infeed end to clear the fault.
There is normally no requirement to provide ‘end fault’ protection on shunt equipment which
includes shunt reactors, MSCDNs, SVCs, HVDC convertor transformers and HVDC harmonic filters.
The measuring range of a BBP is limited by the CT location. The section between the CT and
CB is called the dead zone (blind spot). By using the end-fault protection in the bus coupler,
improved behaviour of the protection is achieved with an open CB. The protection range
may be extended by the dead zone between the CT and CB.
End-fault protection is active only when the CB is open. When the CB closed, the protection
doesn’t activate end-fault protection function. Depending on the installation location of the
CT, the end-fault protection prevents undesired tripping of the busbar section or it causes a
fast fault clarification.
FIGURE 11: Fault in the dead zone

The CB position is detected by the CB auxiliary contacts and not by the current-flow
criterion. The end-fault protection sets the currents of the assigned CT for the BBP to 0.
Consequently, the busbar differential protection can detect a fault when current
transformers are ranged on the busbar side or in the case of a busbar coupler with 1 or 2
current transformers. The calculated current results in disconnection of the faulty busbar by
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the busbar differential protection. In the case of current transformers arranged on the line
side, the fault must be disconnected by the circuit breaker at the opposite end.
4.1.2 A FAULT IN A BUS COUPLER OR A SWITCHED BUSBAR

Low impedance busbar protection schemes where bus section and couplers with CTs on either side
are used to provide overlapping zones, should take due cognisance of “small” zone faults with
associated disconnector combinations in open and/or closed states. The scheme shall achieve
correct discrimination to prevent nuisance or unwanted tripping following a busbar fault.
Where a fault occurs in the overlap between two zones, e.g. at a Bus-section or Bus-coupler, with the
circuit breaker closed, both zones shall be tripped simultaneously.
The fault will be switched off immediately, but not selectively. Protected zones look like this:
87
87
FIGURE 12: Fast but not selective protection of bus couplers and switched busbars
87 87
87
FIGURE 13: Selective but delayed protection of bus couplers and switched busbars
There are two other possible ways how to protect these bays.
The first one is selective but the switching of the fault is delayed. It can be used if we prefer
selectivity to speed.
If there is a fault between CTs, only the CB in the bus coupler or bus section is tripped. After that
these two CTs are with different zones of the BBP, so only the faulted bus can be switched off. A
small delay about 100ms is necessary in this case to let CB in the bus coupler or bus section to open
and the BBP to change configuration of the S/S. The state of the CB must be signalized to the BBP.
The second one is cheaper and easier but is both unselective and delayed. It can be used if there is
not problem with stability and power outage. It is described in the chapter 4.1.1 (dead zone) in
detail.
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ON-LOAD BUSBAR CHANGEOVER

The busbar protection should be able to correctly detect a fault condition occurring during an on-
load busbar changeover and issue trip commands to the connected bays. The selected disconnector
auxiliary switches must ensure correct zone selection for all fault conditions. In the closing cycle the
correct zone must be selected prior to the primary contacts being able to carry current.
BUS COUPLER TIME DELAY

For substation The time delay should be shorter than delay of Zone 2 of distance protection from this
substation. The shortest possible delay is determined by trip of BFP so it has to be within the range
0,15÷0,3 s.
POLICY FOR ISOLATOR ALARM OR AUXILIARY CONTACT

Switchgear positional information should be used to determine the primary arrangement of each
busbar section using busbar disconnectors and/or circuit breakers, and to determine the selection of
end fault protection.
The selected disconnector auxiliary switches must ensure correct zone selection for all fault
conditions including on-load busbar changeover.
Where circuit breaker positional information affects the selection of CT’s to the algorithm a means of
ensuring advance selection prior to circuit breaker closure shall be provided. Pre-close repeat relay
contacts can be used to give advance information of circuit breaker closing to cover for slow circuit
breaker auxiliary switches.
Where a discrepancy (DBI) in switchgear positional information occurs, the busbar protection shall
have user selectable options either to remain in service using the last verified switchgear position or
to block protection operation for the affected zone. Unaffected zones shall remain in operation
5 CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION (BFP) OPERATING

PRINCIPLES
The Circuit Breaker Failure Protection function, CBF protection, is a local back-up protection function
which will operate selectively in the event of an unsuccessful attempt by a circuit breaker to
interrupt fault current in bay or bays despite tripping impulse from its protection [1]. Selectivity
means tripping the least possible number of bays (i.e. bays from specified busbar section or busbar
system)
Several types of CBF protection schemes exist and are explained in IEEE Std C37.119-2016.
The simplest scheme relies upon the occurrence of two signals during a specified time: an external
start and an overcurrent condition or a CB contact information or both. The external start is typically
triggered by a trip command to the circuit breaker from any protection function. For example in a
line feeder this can be the trip from a distance relay, in a power transformer feeder this can be a trip
command from a differential relay and for any feeder connected to a special busbar this can be from
a BBP relay.
The overcurrent relay confirmation is used as the main criteria for the extinction of the circuit
breaker through current. It can also be used for security in case an unwanted start signal appears,
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normally in testing procedures. For feeders with weak infeed it is common to use the circuit breaker
auxiliary open contact 52a instead of current base confirmation.
The time delay is established according to stability network demands and is an important factor
when coordinating with remote back-up protections.
Different consequences can result from the output of this scheme: a re-trip function, a back-up trip
function and intertripping.
The FIGURE 14 scheme uses the inputs (CT, wiring, relay input circuitry, and firmware) to issue the
trip and to determine if the breaker actually failed. This combined with multiple operational copies of
the BF function can potentially erode security of the BF protection. Some multi-input relays reduce
this concern to a degree by allowing different CT, wiring, and relay inputs for the BF function, as
shown in the next picture.
FIGURE 14: Breaker Failure Protection

Re-trip function idea often occurs from two independent tripping circuits. In bay there are protection
devices which are tripping on 1st tripping circuit and after short period of time t1 (approx. less than
100ms) BFP sends repeated trip signal to circuit breaker on both coils (i.e using two tripping circuit).
If retrip is unsuccessful than its working second stage of BFP with time delay t2 (around 250ms)
opens circuit-breakers connected to the same busbar section.
CONTINGENCY ARRANGEMENT IN CASE OF FAILURE OF BBP

Historically busbar protection systems have been installed with check and discriminating zones
whereby both zones must operate to initiate tripping. This is generally referred to as 2 out of 2
systems. With the move to installing numerical busbar protections due to the increased reliability
and self-monitoring facilities available within modern systems this requirement has been relaxed to
allow single units to be installed on a single CT per Circuit.
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However a consequence of this is that if one of the distributed units or the central unit of the
numerical protection fails the entire busbar protection for one or more busbar sections is lost. The
result is that a substantial number of circuit may have to be taken out of service until a repair is
completed.
Two options are possible as contingency arrangement to allow the busbar sections to remain in
service:
1) Provision of a second central unit and associated fibre optic connections so that in the event
of failure of the first unit the busbar protection can be manually connected to the second
unit to enable it to remain in service.
2) Adjust the protection arrangement on the infeeding circuits (feeders) to provide limited
protection for the busbars to allow them to remain in operational service.
The option 2 contingency plan can be implemented by using feeder distance protection fast
discriminative reverse Zone 3. The reverse Zone 3 can be selectable via Group settings, when used to
provide busbar contingency plan, it shoul trip not only the local circuit breaker/s of the feeders but
also other circuit breakers of connected bays to the busbar(s) (such as Transformers and other shunt
plants etc.) by a separate cross tripping scheme. The time setting for the reverse Zone 3 should be
properly graded with the all the distance protections of the feeders connected to the busbar to
ensure that a busbar fault is cleared as quickly as possible but not tripped by the faults within Zone 1
of the feeder protections.
DIRECT AND SELECTIVE TRIPPING

Direct Tripping - The immediate tripping of the remote end of a feeder connected to a double busbar
substation in the event of the operation of busbar protection at the double busbar substation.
Tripping of the remote end is achieved by DTT and/or un-stabilization of the circuit protection by the
Busbar Protection Trip Relays (BBTR) or Back Trip Receive Trip Relays (BTRTR) when selectable links
are inserted. The Interlocked Current Trip Relay (ICTR) links should also be inserted.
Note that un-stabilization of the circuit protection may be no longer used on modern protection
systems, however, there exist some legacy installations with un-stabilization of the circuit protection
as a means of tripping the remote end/s.
Selective Tripping - The tripping of the remote end of a feeder connected to a double busbar
substation initiated by the Interlocked Current Trip Relay (ICTR) after a time delay (such time delay
being determined by the Circuit Breaker Fail timer). In this case tripping of the remote end is
achieved by intertripping and/or protection un-stabilization. To achieve this selective tripping, the
links associated with the BBTR and BTRTR must be removed and the links associated with the ICTR
relay must be inserted.
Note that in some cases the ICTR relay may also operate for “End Fault” protection in order to
intertrip the remote end circuit breaker/s as ICTR links are always in-service regardless of the link
selection for Direct or Selective Tripping.
Direct and Selective tripping initiated by the busbar protection trip relay(s) and circuit breaker fail
function shall be selectable by means of removable links. The requirements for Direct and Selective
tripping are given below.
Where nuclear generation is connected locally and/or remotely, the requirements for direct and
selective tripping usually are obtained from the competent authority or are described at the
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appropriate safety or operational Codes / guidelines or they are according to the utility’s specific
policy.
Direct tripping from busbar protection trip relay shall be selected as follows:
(i) Where the remote end of a two-ended feeder is connected to a double busbar substation
(ii) Where the remote end of a three-ended feeder is connected to a double busbar substation
and fault clearance from the remote substation in CB Fail time is unacceptable from a system
operation perspective.
(iii) Where the local substation is indoors with CTs on the line side only i.e. possibility of a 'Small
zone' fault indoors except where (viii) and (ix) apply.
(iv) Where the outgoing feeder is a transformer feeder with LV-side circuit breaker connected to
LV-level kV at the remote end
(v) Where the local SGT LV circuit breaker is connected to LV-side kV at the local end i.e. for the
LV circuit breaker of a HV/LV kV SGT.
(vi) In all those cases where the additional time delay associated with CB Fail protection would
adversely affect the transient stability of generators or where continued energisation from
the remote end only is unacceptable,
(vii) There is no requirement to affect direct tripping from bus sections or couplers.
Selective tripping of the remote ends of feeders shall be selected where:
(viii) The feeder is a ‘teed’ feeder, including feeders whose remote termination is a double busbar
or a mesh corner to which is also connected an interconnecting transformer.
(ix) The feeder's remote termination is a mesh corner with or without a connection to a supply
transformer.
(x) However, if the delayed tripping of the remote ends in (viii) to (ix) will cause instability
problems, direct tripping should be adopted.
6 PRINCIPLES OF SETTING/PARAMETERIZATION FOR BBP

AND BFP
As mentioned in chapter 2.1, BBP is based on the principle of Kirchhoff’s Current Law, which states
that in the case of unfaulty operations all currents flowing into and out of the object must be zero
[4]. The BBP protection calculates the sum of all currents flowing into and out of the busbar. The
differential current 𝑰𝑫𝒊𝒇𝒇 is equal to the phasor sum of all feeder currents, belong to particular
section – 𝑰𝑫𝒊𝒇𝒇 = |𝑰̅𝟏 + ̅𝑰𝟐 + ̅𝑰𝟑 + ⋯ + ̅𝑰𝑵 |. The restraint current 𝑰𝑹𝒆𝒔 corresponds to the arithmetic
sum of all feeder currents (sum of their absolute values) belong to particular section - 𝑰𝑹𝒆𝒔 = |𝑰̅𝟏 | +
|𝑰̅𝟐 | + |𝑰̅𝟑 | + ⋯ + |𝑰̅𝑵 |. The tripping characteristic of numerical low impedance biased BBP is shown
in the FIGURE 15 [6].
The tripping characteristic is determined by the two settable parameters – differential current limit
𝑰𝑩 and stabilizing factor 𝒌. BBP operates when two criteria are met – 𝑰𝑫𝒊𝒇𝒇 > 𝑰𝑩 and 𝑰𝑫𝒊𝒇𝒇 >
𝒌 × 𝑰𝑹𝒆𝒔 .
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- The current threshold 𝑰𝑩 must be 20% lower than minimum calculated short circuit and
should be 25-30% greater than maximum operational current, commonly nominal current of
CT with the highest primary current
𝟏, 𝟐𝟓 × 𝑰𝑴𝒂𝒙𝑪𝑻 < 𝑰𝑩 < 𝟎, 𝟖 × 𝑰𝑴𝒊𝒏𝑺𝑪 .
Sometimes, in the case of a single phase to earth fault, 80% of the minimum calculated short
circuit may be lower than 125% of the maximum operational current (mostly when
considering energizing a substation by one transmission or distribution line). The setting
must be then done appropriately to this situation. Some vendors offer controllable (by binary
input) sensitive setting of the current threshold – 𝑰𝑩−𝑺𝒆𝒏𝒔 , some offer separate setting for
neutral current – 𝑰𝑵𝑩 , which would be suitable for this situation.
- The stabilizing factor 𝒌 must provide stability against external faults (faults outside protected
zone) and, on the other hand, should be sensitive to detect busbar faults. In the case of a
busbar fault, when each feeder either feed the fault or doesn’t flow any current through, the
operating current is equal to the restraint current. The operating current lies on the fault
characteristic with stabilizing factor 𝒌 = 𝟏 i.e. 𝑰𝑶𝒑 = 𝑰𝑹𝒆𝒔 . As a fault resistance on the
substation used to be low and short circuit current is high, compare to the operational
current, this the most likely situation, that can happen in transmission and distribution
system. To determine the value of 𝒌 the saturation time of CTs should be taken into account.
This factor can be calculated according following equation [6]
𝑲𝑩 𝑰𝑴𝒂𝒙𝑺𝑪 𝑰𝑴𝒂𝒙𝑺𝑪
𝒌> 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑲𝑩 ≥ 𝟐 𝑤ℎ𝑖𝑙𝑒 𝑲𝑩 = =
(𝟒 × √𝑲𝑩 − 𝟏) 𝑰𝑺𝒂𝒕𝑪𝑻 𝑰𝑵𝑪𝑻 × 𝒏′
Where 𝑰𝑴𝒂𝒙𝑺𝑪 is the maximum continuous short circuit, 𝑰𝑺𝒂𝒕 is the saturation current of a
particular CT, 𝑰𝑵𝑪𝑻 is the nominal current of the CT and 𝒏′ is the effective overcurrent factor
of that CT. Since the 𝑲𝑩 factor in transmission and distribution system is usually lower than
2, and very often lower than 1, the setting, with safety margin, 𝒌 = 𝟎, 𝟔 is sufficient. The
practice is set the stabilizing factor between 0,6 and 0,8 – 𝒌 ∈ 〈𝟎, 𝟔 − 𝟎, 𝟖〉.
k=1
k set =0,1 - 0,9
I Op
Tripping area
IB
I Restr
FIGURE 15: BBP Tripping characteristic

In the case of electromechanical low impedance BBP, the protection trips according to the
equation𝑰𝑶𝒑 > 𝑰𝑩 + 𝒌 × 𝑰𝑹𝒆𝒔 .
Regardless to vendor, common BBP practice is that the setting is valid for all zones of the protected
object (when there are more than one zone)
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The same rules should be applied also on check zone’s setting. Some vendor’s BBP doesn’t allow
separate setting of the check zone and it is the same as particular (bus) zones
The time delay of BBP should be set to zero
BFP – Breaker Failure Protection

As mentioned in chapter 5, two stages of BFP can be set by default. First stage re-trips the same
circuit breaker as feeder protection. Second step trips all neighboring circuit breakers. To trip, the
feeder current level must be above threshold and external start by feeder protection (e.g. by binary
signal) must be performed. In the case of possible single-phase tripping of the circuit breaker (almost
all line’s operation), there must be separate start signals for each phase to avoid false and spurious
tripping of circuit breaker
Concerning to current level, both stages have usually the same setting. The current threshold 𝑰𝑩𝑭
should be lower than minimum expected short circuit current of the corresponding feeder.
𝑰𝑩𝑭 < 𝟎, 𝟖 × 𝑰𝑴𝒊𝒏𝑺𝑪−𝑭.
The time of first stage 𝒕𝟏𝑩𝑭𝑷 should take into account the operating time of circuit breaker 𝒕𝑪𝑩, the
reset time of overcurrent element/function a 𝒕𝒓𝑶𝑪 and safety margin 𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒈
𝒕𝟏𝑩𝑭𝑷 > 𝒕𝑪𝑩 + 𝒕𝒓𝑶𝑪 + 𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒈
In practice, this time can be set between 50 and 100 milliseconds. On the other hand, to set this time
to zero 𝒕𝟏𝑩𝑭𝑷 = 𝟎 doesn’t endanger the operation of system. First stage always trips the same
phase(s) as feeder protection.
The time of second stage 𝒕𝟐𝑩𝑭𝑷 should take into consideration the dynamic state’s calculation of CCT
for particular substation and should be set according to this calculation. The minimum time, if there
is no use of first stage, may be set in the same way as first stage. With regard to reliability of the
system, it shouldn’t be set lower. The maximum set time should take into account the first stage
setting and moreover it may take into account the processing time 𝒕𝑷𝒓𝑻𝒊𝑩𝑭𝑷 of both BBP stages.
𝒕𝟐𝑩𝑭𝑷 > 𝒕𝟏𝑩𝑭𝑷 + 𝒕𝑪𝑩 + 𝒕𝒓𝑶𝑪 + 𝒕𝑷𝒓𝑻𝒊𝑩𝑭𝑷 + 𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒈
The second stage’s time 𝒕𝟐𝑩𝑭𝑷 should be set lower than the time of backup zones/functions of the
feeder protection.
If a one and half breaker substation is on opposite side of the feeder object, a BFP start signal from
remote end should be transferred and connected to the BFP.
BBP SETTINGS AND COORDINATION FOR 1 ½ CONFIGURATION

In the case of 1 and half breaker substation, there are the same rules for BBP settings as to typical 2
or 3 main busbar’s substation, but number of zones. There can be more zones in the protected
object; it depends on the number and position of CTs.
Concerning BFP, two side circuit breakers should be set according to the same rules as a circuit
breaker of standard substation. In the case of middle breaker, the BFP start signal of one feeder’s
protection should be also sent to remote end of second feeder object’s BFP. It solves the middle
circuit breaker’s failure.
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7 ASSET MANAGEMENT ISSUES

BUSBAR PROTECTION INSPECTION
Under normal conditions a switchgear cannot be switched off completely to check the busbar
protection. Normally, one feeder after the other is taken out of service to test the protection devices
on the corresponding feeder. However, because the busbar protection is a system of the entire
busbar, a suitable test strategy must be defined.
Possible test sequences:
1. Short-circuit and disconnect the current transformer circuits for busbar protection. Opening
all tripping circuits on the bays which are still in operation. Testing the BBP function by
secondary injection. Check at the tripping contacts whether the protection scheme has given
a tripping command at the corresponding bay. However, this variant carries the risk, since
manipulation must be carried out at switched-on feeders (short-circuiting of current
transformer circuits and opening of tripping circuits).
2. If an empty busbar is available, the bays to be tested can be connected to this empty busbar.
In this way, the entire functionality for the corresponding feeders can be checked by inject of
secondary current. This variant also carries a certain risk of incorrect tripping of the busbar
which is in service.
3. A numerical busbar protection has a very deep self-monitoring. For this reason, the test
sequence for these modern protection systems must be adapted accordingly. Problems with
current measurement or failure of the busbar topology are detected by the internal
monitoring system and the corresponding alarm is generated (e.g. measured value
monitoring, differential current alarm or faulty isolator image). If necessary, the protection
system is blocked immediately to prevent false tripping.
BUSBAR PROTECTION TESTING

A general recommendation how to test an busbar protection is difficult to given. This depends on the
type of protection system (numerical or static), on the topology of the SS (single SS or multiple SS)
and on the risk or consequence of a false trip [5]. Spare parts for busbar protection devices
Components of the protection system (bay unit or central unit) may fail as with other protection
devices. For this reason, it is advisable to purchase reserve material in case of failure. Ideally, a bay
unit and a central unit (tested and with identical firmware) is stored for each substation. This spare
material must also be checked periodically.
If applicable, reserve material for several substations can be stored centrally. It should be noted that
hardware and firmware are suitable for the corresponding systems.
REPLACEMENT OF BUSBAR PROTECTION

If the busbar protection has to replaced, the protection system usually has to be switched off for a
certain time. A parallel operation of the existing and the new busbar protection is very complex and
involves many provisional steps (risks of false tripping). For this reason, the necessary deactivation of
the busbar protection must be kept as short as possible. During the time when no busbar protection
is in operation, the activation of a reverse zone in the distance protection can provisionally replace
the busbar protection.
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ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FUNCTIONS IN THE BUSBAR PROTECTION

Some numerical busbar protection systems offer additional protection functions in the bay units. It is
possible to activate a distance protection function, autoreclosing, synchrocheck etc. in the bay units.
This certainly offers interesting possibilities in medium-voltage systems, but these additional
functions are hardly used in extra-high voltage systems.
CERTIFICATION
As a general rule, the network operator provides a detailed technical specification for busbar
protection. In addition to the protection-relevant requirements, the specification also contains
additional requirements such as for the communication interface (e.g. IEC61850 Edition2) or quality
management (ISO9001).
The vendor must prove compliance with the requirements by means of tests or certificates. The
tests can be carried out either in the manufacturer's laboratory or in the network operator's own
laboratory.
FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TEST (FAT)

In order to keep the commissioning time as short as possible or if not all functions/configurations can
be tested during commissioning, a FAT certainly makes sense. If all functions can be tested during the
phase of a new voltage-free switchgear, a FAT can be dispensed with under certain conditions.
COMMISSIONING
As a rule, all functions of the busbar protection together with the process (from the auxiliary contacts
of the isolators, trips to the circuit-breakers, current transformers and signalisation of the
alarms/events) are tested during the commissioning by protection specialists (own or from the
manufacturer). Since the busbar protection is not in operation, the complete protection functions
can be tested. Whether a test with primary current must be carried out is decided on a case-by-case
basis. It is essential that the stability control of the differential function (with operating current or
with primary feed-in) is carried out.
LIFE CYCLE
The life cycle of busbar protection systems is approximately 20 years as for numerical protection
devices. The number and rate of failures of hardware components is identical to that of numerical
protection devices.
8 REFERENCE OF STANDARDS CIGRE AND RELATED TECHNICAL

BROCHURES
Hereafter some important related technical documents are cited:
ΙΕΕΕ Std C37.234/2009 - Guide for Protective Relay Applications to Power System Buses
Concepts of power bus protection are discussed in this guide. Consideration is given to availability
and location of breakers, current transformers, and disconnectors as well as bus-switching
scenarios, and their impact on the selection and application of bus protection. A number of bus
protection schemes are presented; their adequacy, complexity, strengths, and limitations with
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respect to a variety of bus arrangements are discussed; specific application guidelines are provided.
Breaker failure protection is discussed as pertaining to bus protection. Means of securing bus
protection schemes against corrupted relay input signals are also included.
IEEE Std C37.119-2016 - Guide for Breaker Failure Protection of Power Circuit Breakers
This guide compiles information on the application considerations for breaker failure protection.
The reasons for local backup protection are described. Breaker failure schemes are discussed.
Issues relating to the settings of current detectors and timers are discussed for various applications.
ENTSO-E 181010 SOC TOP 09.2 - Best protection practices for HV and EHAV AC Transmission Systems
of ENTSO-E Electrical Grids
This document describes the best practices for protection schemes with considerations of security
of supply and safety of personnel and equipment. The focus is on the protection application of
equipment, at mainly extra high voltage (EHV) AC, i.e. 400 kV, or high voltage (HV) AC, i.e. less than
or equal to 220 kV, and in some special cases other voltage levels as well.
CIGRE 2010 Technical Brochure – Modern Techniques for Protecting Busbars in HV Networks, ISBN
978-2-85873-119-0
This Technical Brochure is intended to assist the relay application engineer in the correct selection
and application of busbar protection. It provides relevant information about their performance,
operation, testing, and maintenance. Two main designs used for HV busbar protection today are
high impedance and low impedance differential protection systems. Features of modern low
impedance differential protection are described in details.
9 EVENTS / MALOPERATIONS / CASE STUDIES

Events of operation of BBP and CBF might be different. Quite common event is human failure in
preparing working place on AIS substation. For instance leaving earthing switch close while
substation voltage testing.
CEPS’S EVENT
On 7.10.2014 in a double bus substation 400kV a BBP did not operate during a busbar fault. It was
not caused by the BBP itself but by special conditions before the fault.
The BBP contains a current measurement blocking function that is described in the chapter 2.4. In
case that the BBP measures only a small differential current it is suspected that the measurement of
the relay is not correct. If the situation takes longer than 5s the function of the relay is selectively
blocked – tripping in zones with the spurious measurement is blocked.
The fault occurred during an on-load busbar changeover. It means the bus coupler was switched on
and all bays were changing to a one bus. In changed bays, one bus disconnector was gradually
switched on and the second one switched off.
In one bay, there was a drawbar of one phase of the disconnector Q1 broken. It meant that the
motor was working but the contact in one phase did not move. Therefore, the disconnector Q1 was
closed only in two phases, but signalization to the control system and to the BBP was that it was
connected in all three phases.
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FIGURE 16: The situation just before the busbar fault

The disconnector Q2 had to open all operational current which was still flowing through its third
phase. It caused an arc in the phase. The arc approached to an earthed construction and caused a
short circuit in 11 seconds after the BBP had already been blocked by small differential current. The
fault was cleared by distance relays at remote ends of lines and transformers.
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10 TSO’S QUESTIONNAIRE
A questionnaire was addressed for filling in by TSOs represented within or being corresponding with
Protection Equipment subgroup, in order to gather information about busbar protection, about the
adopted practice and the problems faced.
The TABLE 2 shows –in alphabetic order- the TSOs of ENTSO-E that responded to the questionnaire
(24 companies responded, coming from all ENTSO-E regions).
TSO’s NAME COUNTRY

AMPRION GERMANY
AST LATVIA
CEPS CZECH REPUBLIC
EIRGRID IRELAND
ELERING ESTONIA
ELES SLOVENJIA
ELIA BELGIUM
EMS SERBIA
ENERGINET DENMARK
ESO EAD BULGARIA
FINNGRIG FINLAND
IPTO GREECE
LITGRID LITHUANIA
MAVIR HUNGARY
NG UNITED KINGDOM
PSE POLAND
RTE FRANCE
REN PORTUGAL
SEPS SLOVAKIA
SVENSKA KRAFTNAT SWEEDEN
SWISSGRID SWITZERLAND
TENNET (DE) GERMANY
TENNET (NL) NETHERLANDS
TERNA ITALY
TABLE 2: TSOs that responded to the questionnaire
Hereafter the main findings from the received responses are cited.
Q.1 [QUESTION 1] SUBSTATION DESIGN ISSUES

From the 24 TSO-s that answered the question, almost each TSO use a few bus bar design
configuration. The most of them use single (66%) , double bus bar with single breaker (83%) and
double bus bar with transfer bus coupler (83%) and triple bus bar design. There are 6 TSO who has
some special bus bar design configuration (answers mark on other configuration).
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Q.1. SUBSTATION DESIGN ISSUES, only for System 220 kV - 400 kV

25
20 20
20
16
No. of TSO
15
11 11 11
10
10
0
1. Single busbar 2. Double busbar 3. Double busbar 4. Triple busbar 5. Breaker-and-a- 6. Double busbar 7. Ring busbar or 8. Other
with single breaker with transfer bus- half with double Mesh Corner configuration
(bus-section) coupler breakers (bus-
sections)
FIGURE 17: Chart - Substation Design Configuration
Q2 DIFFERENTIAL BBP BASED POLICY

Differential busbar protection is important transmission system element against all probable types of
faults. The BBP can be found BBP in all type substations, an open air (AIS) or a gas insulated
substations (GIS) without reference to voltage level (FIGURE 18, FIGURE 19).
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FIGURE 18: Do you have Differential BBP protections at all Substations (S/S)?
FIGURE 19: Voltage level lacking BBP?
The main reason of not having BBP is the configuration of older-design substations with an
electromechanical relay or according each TSO’s requirements, depends mainly on technical and
economical evaluation: substation have few feeding lines, importance for transmission system,
critical fault clearing time, lower power consumption or quality requirements (FIGURE 20). In giving
time the prevailing tendency is to install BBP in all new or reconstructed substations.
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FIGURE 20: Criterion not having BBP in S/S

BBP protection usually doesn’t differ in the S/S at different voltage levels; the difference emerges
mostly in exceptional cases like S/S near nuclear power plants, nevertheless without specific
requirements.
The protection philosophy is applied evenly in AIS and GIS. The use of single BBP is prefer by most
TSO’s with few exceptions in some cases. The double BBP are used in off-shore S/S to ensure
protection redundancy due to possible difficulties to reach off-shore platforms or to maintain
redundancy in important substations where fast clearing time and transient stability are important.
For double BBP independency are achievable by separating CT cores, auxiliary contact and tripping
circuits (for both tripping coils) and using redundant power supply. Both BBP IED’s can be from
different manufacturers and work independently, including independent operating principles to
reach a better independency.
A back-up protection of BBP, TSO’s use line distance protection reversal zone(-s) oriented towards
the BB, autotransformer or bus coupler distance protection zones and over current protection. A
long-distance reservation of BBP also can be achieved with distance protection zones (zone 2, 3)
from the opposite end of OHL/Cables of another S/S.
Requirements for BBP schemes in S/S feeding RES doesn’t differ from other S/S according TSO’s,
except for higher requirements for the off-shore S/S connected to WG plants (FIGURE 21).
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FIGURE 21: Differences in BBP at S/S feeding RES vs. those feeding conventional generating plants?
Q3. BUSBAR PROTECTION CONFIGURATION

First the BBD configurations centralized and decentralized are investigated.
Next Figure illustrates the applied categories.
FIGURE 22: Busbar Protection Configuration

Some TSOs are using both arrangements, made following clarifications, concerning the reasons for
installing each type of BBD:
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No. Centralized arrangement Decentralized arrangement

1 only a few
2 110 kV 330 kV
3 smaller installations Main principle
4 Old substations in 400 kV grid Used in 400 kV substation built after 2005.
5 Yes: a lot of centralized busbars of old Yes : for all new substations, Decentralized
technologies has been installed. When a busbar are installed. If the protection system of
replacement has to be done, a centralized the substation is changed and an old centralized
busbar can be installed at the same place busbar is installed: a decentralized is installed.
of the old one only to simplify the
engineering constraints
6 Mostly
7 old BBP or 3-feeder substations mostly
TABLE 3: Centralized arrangement vs Decentralized arrangement
As a summary of this Table above, why TSO’s are using both arrangement, the main reasons are of
using :
• centralized BBP:
o old or small substations
o 110 kV voltage level
• decentralized BBP:
o new substations
o higher voltage level (330 kV or above)
Q. 3.1. POWER SUPPLY TYPE FOR SINGLE BUSBAR PROTECTION

The design criteria of the power supply were questioned. Responses are summarized in next chart.
POWER SUPPLY TYPE FOR SINGLE BUSBAR

PROTECTION
18
16
14
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
One power supply Redundant power supply Other arrangement
FIGURE 23: Power supply type for single busbar Protection
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One power supply use 17 TSO. Redundant power supplies use 13 TSO. Both, one and redundant
power supply use 6 TSO. About 45 % of the TSO’ use one power supply, 30 % of them use redundant
PS and about 25 % use both type.
No. One power supply Redundant power supply Other arrangement

1 In some existing BBP Standard for new
substations.
2 There is a manual possibility Redundant power supply
to switch power to another from another power
battery source (dc battery)
3 One polarity is used for the For the distributed relay room
power supply. This polarity applications, the each of
uses a backup from batteries. Numeric BBP Bay Unit is
powered by the DC first
tripping supply for the bay,
For the common relay room
applications, duplicated SC
supplies with automatic
changeover are deployed.
- Two independent DC power
suppliers for duplicated High
Impedance schemes.
4 Bay unit Central unit
TABLE 4: Power Supply Type for Single Busbar Protection
Q4. BUSBAR PROTECTION OPERATING PRINIPLES (DIFFERENTIAL

ETC.)
The applied protection principles for protecting high voltage busbars were examined. The registered
methods are put in next chart.
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FIGURE 24: Busbar Protection Operating Principles
10.4.1 Q4.1. ADDITIONAL TRIPPING CRITERIA FOR BBP DIFFERENTIAL

Additional to the main criterion of the differential current, for reliability and security purposes, other
criteria in an AND logic are applied. This depends on the devices features and capabilities and on the
utility practice. The received responses are shown in chart of Figure 25.
FIGURE 25: Additional Tripping Criteria for BBP Differential

The justification of each additional criterion is briefly as it follows:
- Check Zone
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It’s used to increase stability of BBP, The check zone calculates the diff. current and restrain
current for the all s/s (all bays, except bus-coupler) without taking into account the position of
the BB disconnectors. A trip order is issued only in case a fault is detected simultaneously in
both the BBP zone and in the check. It is also used in smaller 110kV substations
- Current directional
Currents in all bays must have the same direction – into the protected zone. Generally it’s not
common upon responders.
- Phase under-voltage release criterion (U<)
It is not used among responders.
- Voltage sequence components release criterion (U1<, U2>,3Uo>)
- Neutral over voltage release criterion (3Uo>)
- Neutral over current release criterion (3Io>)
- Overcurrent release of the trip command
- External release of the trip command
- Other
Check Zone + Discrimination Zone -Two independent algorithms (e.g. angler differential +
current differential), dead zone function
Q5. SPECIAL BBP ARRANGMENTS/COMPONENTS

Next the mehod of protection of various busbar segments, parts, equipment is examined. Purpose is
to cover with security all related to high voltage buses equipment.
10.5.1 Q5.1. A FAULT IN A BAY BETWEEN A CB AND A CT

In all cases the CT is located towards the line (according TSO’s answers), between the CB and feeder
(line, transformer). The fault between the CB and the CT fall in busbar protection zone and makes
BBP to trip. If fault after BBP operation persists and the CB in faulted bay is open, the remaining fault
is then eliminated with help of “end fault” protection, where BBP protection sends a trip signal to
line distance protection of the remote end. After signal was received the CB of an opposite side trips
and eliminates the remaining fault.
The other options to eliminate Fault in the dead zone are by tripping fault from other end of the line
by distance protection or using BFP function. The “end fault” function is used in cases where tripping
speed is more important factor, as example in important S/S (FIGURE 26).
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FIGURE 26: A fault in a bay between a circuit breaker and a current transformer eliminated by?
10.5.2 Q5.2. A FAULT IN BUS COUPLER BETWEEN CB AND CT

Each TSO choose differently how many CT’s use on bus section and in which S/S. The one CT installed
always in one side of bus coupler side and faults in that case are eliminated by tripping two buses.
The two CT’s are installed in two sides of the bus coupler and eliminate faults selectively by tripping
only one bus. Usually two CT’s are used in GIS or in important AIS where fast and selective fault
elimination is vital.
10.5.3 Q5.3. BUS COUPLER

Faults on busbar or near S/S can also be eliminated by bus coupler protection, using distance,
overcurrent or sensitive earth fault relays (FIGURE 27).
FIGURE 27: Bus coupler splitting policy
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A bus coupler distance protection zone reach is calculated by estimating shortest line reactance
reach with additional margin (0,72 x shortest line). Time delay is between 150 ms and 300 ms with
consideration of other protection time delays (line distance protection zone 2, BFP, line distance
reversal zone). The similar setting selection principles apply to overcurrent protection relays.
Protection must trip before line distance remote end protection and/or before reversal line distance
protection zone.
Also, there are some cases without additional time delays in bus coupler protection to consider.
10.5.4 Q5.4. 1 1/2 BREAKER CONFIGURATION SUBSTATIONS

In 1 ½ configuration BBP principle almost has no difference from other types of S/S configurations.
Zones between two CB and line are also protected by BBP. When the BBP operates teleprotection
signal is send to other ends of the line. If line is out of operation, zone without branch is still
protected with BBP.
10.5.5 Q5.5. SPECIAL PROTECTION SCHEMES SUPPORTING BBP OPERATION

Special protection schemes supporting BBP:
• Teleprotection schemes;
• BFP function.
10.5.6 Q5.6. ISOLATOR ALARM OR AUXILIARY CONTACT

TSO’s using several policies for isolator alarm treatment:
• Alarm and take no action;
• Alarm and block BBP.
In case the isolator alarm is issued, the BBP remain in service by using last valid switchgear position
into account or the BBP operation is blocked for the affected zone.
Q6. CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION OPERATING

PRINCIPLES.
The different approaches to BFP by TSO are gathered in chart FIGURE 28.
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FIGURE 28: Circuit Breaker Failure Protection (BFP) Operating Principles
Q7. PRINCIPLES OF SETTING/PARAMETERIZATION FOR BBP AND BFP

Present session summarizes the followed tactic for the busbar protection studies.
10.7.1 Q7.1. BBP SETTINGS

The TSO’s choose settings for the BBP by their in-house resources, taking under consideration the
BBP manufacturer settings (FIGURE 29) recommendations as well, nevertheless the calculation of
setting varies among TSO’s due to inherited legacy and requirement differences.
FIGURE 29: BBP parametrization/settings resources

As example can be a criterion for the settings of the minimum differential current of busbar
protection (FIGURE 30). The setting can be chosen by taking into consideration:
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• The protection sensitivity;

• A safety margin (at least 20 percent or more) of minimum fault current on busbar in different
scenarios (N-1 or N-2) and with different fault types;
• The fault resistance on bus;
• Highest CT of the line (not to trip BBP when one of the CT’s are faulted) with or without
additional safety margin for the setting as well;
• Operating time
FIGURE 30: Criteria for Setting Of The Minimum Differential Current Of Busbar Protection
10.7.2 Q7.2. BFP SETTINGS

Breaker failure protection (BFP) is important back-up function for breaker redundancy. The BFP can
detect that a CB has failed to interrupt by those criterions (FIGURE 31):
• Measuring current flow through the CB;
• The CB position criteria;
• Combination of the two criteria.
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FIGURE 31: The criterion of starting signal for BFP

The minimum current for BF detection can be set for each of three phase detections (FIGURE 32). The
current limit can be fixed value or can vary in correspond to S/S CT’s currents.
FIGURE 32: The criterion for setting of the minimum current for breaker failure detection, phase or
three phase detection?
The BFP tripping time is crucial factor for transmission system operation stability and must fulfil
critical clearing time conditions. The setting for the time delay varies among TSO’s from 120 ms to
300 ms. The time delay is calculated by evaluating protection response time, CB contact tripping
time, action time of auxiliary relays, safety time margin and selectivity in relation with the fault
clearance time by the main protection.
10.7.3 Q7.3. OTHER SETTING PARAMETER OF BBP AND BFP

Other BBP and BFP functions and settings to take upon consideration:
• The current circuit supervision with an operating time delay;
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• The stabilization factor in case of external faults or external errors;

• BB auto-reclosure;
• BFP clearing time reduction in special cases.
The current circuit (differential current) supervision function is part of BBP. Current circuit
supervision picks up if differential current exceeds setting value for a set time. Settings values are
determined by maximum CT primary current or by certain level of operational current. Function can
block BBP entirely or alarm about current circuit malfunction due to incorrectly connected CT, open
wire or CT defects.
The stabilization factor (k-factor) for BB zones determines the stabilization in case of external faults.
A higher stabilization factor has a positive influence on the stabilization for external errors, while the
sensitivity to internal faults diminishes.
BB auto-reclosure solution is initiated only for one time when BBP trips faulty busbar section and if
BFP permits to do it. BB auto-reclosure is initiated by one of the dedicated CB’s, after successful
busbar auto-reclosure remaining busbar CB are connected automatically.
Special solution BFP applicable to reduce short circuit clearing time in S/S with connected extra-large
units (app. 1GW). Aim is to speed up reaction of BFP when failure of CB occurs during clearing
multiphase short circuit on line. For detection such short circuit additional zone must be set (shorter
to zone 1) in line distance protection. Activation signal of this zone is sent to BFP. If this zone is still
active after time of proper reaction on short circuit in base protection zone, re-trip is omitted and
BFP is operating according to scheme.
Q8. BBP - ASSET MANAGEMENT ISSUES

The questionnaire includes 12 asset management issues. The answers are quite different and
therefore some tendencies can only be summarized.
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10.8.1 Q.8.1. MAINTENANCE OF BBP – HOW IS IT IMPLEMENTED? FOR THE ENTIRE

SUBSTATION, ONE AFTER THE OTHER BAY?
FIGURE 33: Maintenance of BBP – how is it implemented?

It is remarkable that three TSOs do not do preventive maintenance at all. Only corrective
maintenance is done.
Two TSOs have stated that S/S is in operation during maintenance.
• One TSO has stated that maintenance of BBP for the entire substation requires out-of-service
of full S/S.
• As an example to do maintenance of BBP one after the other bay/for single bay the following
example describe. One TSO do often the maintenance of BBP on bay unit level when a feeder
is in maintenance. S/S is in operation doing the work. In the tested bay, the disconnector to
the “free” busbar (busbar out of operation) is closed, the rest of BBP’s tripping circuits
(tripping from other bay units) are unplugged and there is forbidden to work in the area of
S/S (nobody must be in area of S/S).
10.8.2 Q.8.2. IS TRIPPING TEST APPLIED – WHICH IS THE POLICY/METHODOLOGY?

Two tendencies seem to apply for The TSOs doing preventive maintenance:
• Trip test without circuit breaker (trippings are tested to the terminal blocks in relay cubicle)
• Trip test including circuit breaker (tripping is executed on CB).
The two tendencies appear with some percentages.
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10.8.3 Q.8.3 BBP MAINTENANCE STRATEGY/HOW OFTEN IS THE DEVICE TESTED AND WHAT
IS TESTED?
FIGURE 34: BBP maintenance strategy/How often is the device tested?

The answer “no regular maintenance” includes the following answers: No regular maintenance, no
strategy yet and condition based maintenance.
Some TSO do a test of the BBP one year after commissioning and afterwards ordinary maintenance
tests.
As seen from FIGURE 34 the majority of the TSOs do maintenance test of BBP every 3-6 years. A few
TSOs have another strategy.
There are variations in what is included in a test doing maintenance. Some TSO focus on tripping
functions, other visual inspections and other again do a full test or partly a full test. Full test
including: power control, control of settings, control of protection functions and characteristics by
secondary test equipment, control of analogue and binary inputs, control of binary output, control of
signalisation and tripping test.
10.8.4 Q.8.4 SPARE PARTS MANAGEMENT STRATEGY?

Four different strategies are used by the TSOs. Some TSOs use a combination of the strategies. The
strategies are:
• Maintenance agreement. The manufacturer holds all need spare parts.
• Spare parts on stock by TSOs
• Only bay units and important cards on stock by TSOs.
• Reliance on vendors combined whit in some cases equipped spare bays and holding of
decommissioned equipment.
Half of the TSO have spare parts on stock.
10.8.5 Q.8.5 REPLACEMENTS OF ALL PROTECTION RELAYS THROUGHOUT A SUBSTATION

WITH THE DECENTRALIZED BBP DESIGN. IS BBP OUT OF OPERATION OR IS THERE
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SOM TEMPORARY OPERATIONS? DESCRIBE BRIEFLY THE OPERATION OF BBP DURING

SUCH A RECONSTRUCTION.
The majority of TSOs have BBP in service as much as possible under such a reconstruction.
If the BBP itself has to be replaced than different strategies are used depending on the
circumstances:
• BBP out of service
• BBP out of service – backup protection from distance protection relays in reverse direction
with 300 ms time delay or distance protection from remote ends are used as backup
protection (sometimes time delays of zone 2 are shorten).
• Old BBP remains provisionally in operation until the last bay is replace if there is work on the
primary equipment.
• BBP may be in operation for one bus or for one bus section during works on the other bus or
bus section.
One TSO do not have any decentralized BBP design.
10.8.6 Q.8.6 ADDITIONAL BAY PROTECTION (BP) RELATED FUNCTION ON BAY UNITS (BU)
The “district” options / combinations are:
- Overall protection sytem (BBP+BP in same devices).
- Distance protection on BU
- Overcurrent on BU
- Autoreclosing (AR)?
- Disturbance protection (starting?)
The majority of TSOs use the BU for BBP only.
Five TSOs use BU for BBP and BFP only. Some of the TSOs have additional bay protection in already
running BBP.
Four exceptions occur:
• BU contains BBP, BFP and Pole discordance function
• Two TSOs use overcurrent protection on BU. One only for 110 kV overhead lines.
• One TSO use Distance Protection on BU in a few S/S.
10.8.7 Q.8.7 IS THERE A CERTIFICATION PROCESS FOR THE BBP? (TENDER REQUIREMENT)
Nearly all TSOs have a certification process. The certification processes are very different, but tree
different strategies seam to occur:
• Tender specification: All requirements are detailed described including technical data,
manufacturer quality management system, list of clients/users, etc.
• Type test in laboratory owned by TSO (Done by either TSO itself or the vendor).
• Type approval process for protection relays and functional requirements.
One TSO requires reference list of the clients/users.
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10.8.8 Q.8.8 ARE FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TEST REQUIRED? WHY?

13 of the TSOs require Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). The outage time during the installation on site
can be shorter while errors in configuration of the protection relay can be retrieved in advance.
Some TSO do not require FAT because the vendors already are qualified/certified doing frame
agreements (tender requirements).
10.8.9 Q.8.9 WHAT IS YOUR QUALIFICATION OF THE PROCESS FOR COMMISSIONING?

The answers to this question are quite different and therefore some tendencies are summarized. 5
TSOs do not answer this question.
Insourcing:
• 7 TSO do the commissioning themselves with own engineers with full qualification. A few
TSO also do engineering themselves.
Outsourcing is done in different ways:
• The manufacturer is responsible for commissioning – with/without with validation with own
employees.
• Commissioning is done by contractor together with manufacturer. Validation with own
employees.
10.8.10 Q.8.10 WHAT TESTS ARE PERFORMED DURING COMMISSIONING? ARE THE DONE
WHEN THE SUBSTATION IS IN OPERATION OR WHEN IT IS OUT OF SERVICE?
The answers to this question are quite different and therefore some tendencies are summarized.
For new substations the tests of BBP during commissioning are done when the S/S are out of service.
In case of commissioning of BBP in existing substation 7 TSO have stated that S/S is out of service
during commissioning of BBP. One TSO states that this is the best case. If not the bays are out of
service one after one other.
Different tendencies are:
• Due to extensive FAT (Q8.8) performed test are related to the interfaces: CBs, isolators
positions, CTs, telealarms going to the SCADA system, local alarms.
• Full test concerning both functional test and tests to the interfaces. Following test are usually
performed: power control, control of setting, control of protection functions and
characteristics bye test equipment, control of analogue and binary inputs, control of binary
output, control of signalization, tripping test, signalization of CBs and disconnectors, polarity
check of CTs by a primary power source.
A commissioning test includes some of or all of the following statements:
• Power control
• Control of settings
• Control of protection functions and characteristics by test equipment
• Test of breaker failure scheme on each bay
• Control of analogue and binary inputs
• Control of signalizations
• Tripping test
• Signalizations of CBs and disconnectors
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• Polarity check of CTs by a primary power Source

• Tele alarms going to the SCADA system
• Local alarms
10.8.11 Q.8.11 DO YOU DO PRIMARY CURRENT INJECTION TESTS? IF YES THEN HOW? BY AN
OPERATION CURRENT OR BY A TEST EQUIPMENT?
It is remarkable that for the first commissioning for a new S/S or a new bay more than the half of the
TSO uses primary current injection tests done by test equipment before energizing. Some TSO use
primary current injection by a test equipment only for advanced protection schemes but mostly as a
part of standard commissioning.
10.8.12 Q.8.12 WHAT IS EXPECTED LIFETIME FOR DIFFERENT TECHNOLOGIES/WHAT ARE THE
FAILURE RATES OF THE EQUIPMENT/MAIN FAILURE MODES FOR DIFFERENT TYPE OF
BUSBAR PROTECTIONS? PLEASE GIVE SOME FIGURES IN CASE THEY ARE AVAILABLE.
FIGURE 35: Expected lifetime for numerical BBP in years

As seen from FIGURE 35 the expected lifetime for the numerical BBP is assumed from 15-30 years,
where majority says 20 years. Failure rates vary from products to products.
A few TSO have assumed lifetime for electromechanical to 40 to more than 50 years.
The reported failures for the numerical BBP are: communication failure, I/O modules, modules for
optical connection between BU and CU, bay units, power supply.
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10.8.13 Q8.13. STATISTICS ABOUT NUMBER OF BUSBAR FAULT (PER SUBSTATION AND PER
YEAR)/ NUMBER OF UNWANTED TRIPS/AVAILABILITY
Please note that answers not are given in an uniform format:
• Some TSOs report numbers of substation for each voltage level others “x substations with
highest voltage 110 kV and y substations with highest voltage 400 kV” . In Question 4.1 TSOs
are asked for substation design issues but only for system 220 kV-400 kV. The problem is to
distinguish on this when statistics are made.
• Some TSOs use unit “number of busbar fault per substation” others “number of busbar fault
per substation”.
• Some TSOs have answered number of busbar faults per year and per substation, others
number of unwanted trips and others have answered both questions. It seems to some TSOs
only have statistics on unwanted trips.
In Figure 36 is shown years to busbar faults. Faulty trips (over-reaction) from busbar protection are
not included in this figure.
Figure 36: Number of busbar faults - Years to Busbar Fault. Faulty trips are not included
Figure 37 shows Number of unwanted trips from busbar protections.
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Figure 37: Number of unwanted trips from busbar protections
Q9. OTHER ISSUES

Finally a section was included in the survey for notifying any possible important factor related with
BBP that deserves future investigation, that consist the state of the art of BBP or the long –term
trend. For this case two questions were proposed and were put:
• Fiber optic or copper wiring for connection to central unit?
All TSOs uses fiber optics between bay units and centralized BBP unit.
• Do you apply at any S/S BBP functionality with reversely oriented and interlocked distance
zones using IEC61850
Only one TSO has applied the BBP functionality in one S/S, but it’s not in operation yet.
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11 CONCLUSIONS
BBP is one of the most important protection devices which is installed on substations. It is the most
critical protection system due to its big impact for the system. The most important key factors
related with the correct function of BBP is the large amount of the affected elements that trip and
the necessity of the instantaneous tripping of the bus faults.
HV and EHV (220 kV and above) bars must be equipped with busbar protection phase segregated.
BBP realizes fast and selective tripping. Although BBP is quite expensive and complicated device, its
features may save equipment and even peoples live. Using BBP and CBF is also a necessity to assure
system stability.
The redundancy level should be a function to the critical clearing time: If this is less than typical
remote backup clearing times then busbar protection must installed.
The BBP protection should not trip for external faults. Check zone logic that covers the whole busbar
arrangement is recommended. Other reliability principles that support the functionality of BBP are:
the directional principle, the saturation detection, voltage and current release criterion, etc.
The protection should only trip the bar faulted section (selectivity). The protection should include
dynamic bus replica mechanism. When bad arrangement is detected the protection should alarm and
block.
Low impedance differential protection systems are preferred.
Centralized or decentralized types are equivalently used depending on the local conditions. The pros
and cons were given as they frame the design decision.
Local back-up protection (breaker failure protection) needed for busbar protection. When the busbar
protection is unavailable, if the critical clearing time of the substation is small, local back-up with
reverse zones of the line protection should be used.
Concerning planning great concern is devoted to the places of installation of BBP. There is a variety of
tactics. Most companies try to install as much as possible BBP and to avoid the clearance of the
busbar faults by the second zone of the distance relays.
Double busbar protection is not the rule. Setting procedure is managed and/or executed by the
companies. Commissioning and maintenance is made in a manner not to jeopardise the security of
the system.
High penetration of power electronics at the connection interface and the existence of GIS or AIS
substations are taken into consideration to the even more detailed and sound management of the
BBP.
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12 BIBLIOGRAPHY
[1] Bogdan Kasztenny, Michael J. Thompson (2010). Breaker Failure Protection – Standalone or
Integrated With Zone Protection Relays? 37th Annual Western Protective Relay Conference,
(p. 13). USA.
[2] Caitlin Martin, Steven Chase, Thanh-Xuan Nguyen, Dereje Jada Hawaz, Jeff Pope, and Casper
Labuschagne (2013, rev. 2015). Bus Protection Considerations for Various Bus Types. 40th
Annual Western Protective Relay Conference, October 2013, (p. 10). USA.
[3] ENTSO-E. (2018). Best Protection Practices for EHV AC Transmission System. Brussels: ENTSO-E
site.
[4] Ken Behrendt, David Costello, and Stanley E. Zocholl (2008, 2010, 2013, 2016). Considerations
for Using High-Impedance or Low-Impedance Relays for Bus Differential Protection. 35th
Annual Western Protective Relay Conference,, (p. 18). USA.
[5] Lubomir Sevov, Bogdan Kaszten,Ed Taylor (2006). Commissioning and Testing Complex Busbar
Protection Schemes - Experience at Pacific Gas & Electric. 60th Annual Georgia Tech Protective
Relaying Conference, (p. 18). Atlanta, Georgia.
[6] Ziegler, G. (2005). Numerical Differential Protection. Erlangen: Publicis Kommunikations
Agentur GmbH.
[7] CIGRE No 431 Technical Brochure (2010). Modern Techniques for Protecting Busbars in HV
Networks.
[8] Armando Guzman, Casper Labuschagne & Bai-Lin Qin. (2015). Reliable busbar and breaker
failure protection with advanced zone selection. Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
Pullman, WA USA.
[9] Bogdan Kasztenny, Lubo Sevov & Gustavo Brunello. (2001). Digital low-impedance bus
differential protection-review of principles and approaches. College Station, TX.
[10] Steven Chase, Thanh-Xuan Nguyen, Dereje Jada Hawaz, Jeff Pope, and Casper Labuschagne.
Bus protection considerations for various bus types. Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
40th Annual Western Protective Relay Conference, October 2013
[11] R.Pellizzonni, L.Funes, R.Delorenzi, E.Dufur, P.D'Amore, I.Steinbrecher, E.Fernandez, E.Shiavino
(2010). Virtual busbar protection implemented with IEDs IEC 61850 from different vendors in a
132/33/13.2 kV SUBSTATION. CIGRE Paris, (p. 10).
[12] Zhang, R. (2018). User Experience and Current Practice with IEC 61850 Process Bus. CIGRE
2018 (p. 12). Paris: CIGRE.
[13] ΙΕΕΕ Std C37.234/2009 - Guide for Protective Relay Applications to Power System Buses
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BUSBAR PROTECTION - BUSBAR DIFFERENTIAL: BEST

Table of contents page

4 SPECIAL BUSBAR ARRANGEMENTS/ COMPONENTS AND THEIR PROTECTION ..................... 15

5 CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION (BFP) OPERATING PRINCIPLES ............................. 17

7 ASSET MANAGEMENT ISSUES .................................................................................................. 23

8 REFERENCE OF STANDARDS CIGRE AND RELATED TECHNICAL BROCHURES ......................................... 24

10 TSO’S QUESTIONNAIRE .................................................................................................... 27

2 BUS BAR PROTECTION: PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

FIGURE 1: Differential (object oriented) protection principle

FIGURE 2: Simple current differential scheme with paralleled CTs

NUMERIC CURRENT DIFFERENTIAL, HIGH IMPEDANCE, STABILIZED, ETC.

ARC PROTECTION (LIGHT SENSITIVE)

FIGURE 3: Cross-section of an air insulated switchgear unit within optical sensors

Arc Flash Detection Methods [4]

BUSBAR PROTECTION BLOCKING SCHEME SUPERVISION OR BLOCKING CRITERIA

FIGURE 5: Double Busbar with Transfer Bus

Mesh busbar scheme

FIGURE 6: Mesh busbar scheme and BBP at Mesh scheme

One and a Half Breaker Scheme

FIGURE 7: One and a Half Breaker Scheme

FIGURE 8: Protection scheme of busbar protection of a substation with the configuration of 1 ½

ADDITIONAL TRIPPING CRITERIA FOR BBP DIFFERENTIAL

2.7.2 CURRENT DIRECTION

2.7.3 PHASE UNDER-VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION

FIGURE 9: Under-voltage release criterion

2.7.4 VOLTAGE SEQUENCE COMPONENTS RELEASE CRITERION

2.7.5 NEUTRAL OVER VOLTAGE RELEASE CRITERION

FIGURE 10: Neutral over-voltage release criterion

2.7.6 NEUTRAL OVER CURRENT RELEASE CRITERION

2.7.7 OVERCURRENT RELEASE OF THE TRIP COMMAND

2.7.8 OTHER TRIPPING CRITERIA

3 BUSBAR DIFFERENTIAL PROTECTION CONFIGURATION

Subject CENTRALIZED DECENTRALIZED

TABLE 1: vertical comparison between BBP Centralized and Decentralized arrangements

4 SPECIAL BUSBAR ARRANGEMENTS/ COMPONENTS AND

FIGURE 11: Fault in the dead zone

4.1.2 A FAULT IN A BUS COUPLER OR A SWITCHED BUSBAR

ON-LOAD BUSBAR CHANGEOVER

BUS COUPLER TIME DELAY

POLICY FOR ISOLATOR ALARM OR AUXILIARY CONTACT

5 CIRCUIT BREAKER FAILURE PROTECTION (BFP) OPERATING

FIGURE 14: Breaker Failure Protection

CONTINGENCY ARRANGEMENT IN CASE OF FAILURE OF BBP

DIRECT AND SELECTIVE TRIPPING

6 PRINCIPLES OF SETTING/PARAMETERIZATION FOR BBP

FIGURE 15: BBP Tripping characteristic

BFP – Breaker Failure Protection

BBP SETTINGS AND COORDINATION FOR 1 ½ CONFIGURATION

7 ASSET MANAGEMENT ISSUES

BUSBAR PROTECTION TESTING

REPLACEMENT OF BUSBAR PROTECTION

ADDITIONAL PROTECTION FUNCTIONS IN THE BUSBAR PROTECTION

FACTORY ACCEPTANCE TEST (FAT)

8 REFERENCE OF STANDARDS CIGRE AND RELATED TECHNICAL

9 EVENTS / MALOPERATIONS / CASE STUDIES

FIGURE 16: The situation just before the busbar fault