In the rugged and remote landscapes where mining enterprises operate, ensuring the reliable protection of electric transport networks is a constant challenge. Boris V. Malozyomov, from the Department of Electrotechnical Complexes at Novosibirsk State Technical University in Russia, has been tackling this issue head-on. His recent research, published in the World Electric Vehicle Journal, offers a promising solution to improve the reliability of electric transport networks, particularly in conditions where short circuits and unreliable grounding are common.
Malozyomov’s study focuses on the limitations of standard protection methods like Maximum Current Protection (MCP) and Differential Current Protection (DCP). These methods often fall short when dealing with operating currents below 800 A, which is typical for the more distant sections of contact networks. “The objective of this study is to develop and experimentally verify a method for adjusting the parameters of current and impulse protection, ensuring reliable shutdown of accidents at low values of short-circuit current without the need to replace equipment,” Malozyomov explains.
The method proposed by Malozyomov is based on modeling transient processes using differential equations and introducing a dynamic sensitivity coefficient. This coefficient reflects the dependence of the setting on the circuit time constant, allowing for more precise and adaptive protection. The research involved constructing universal response characteristics in normalized coordinates for various switches and relays, including BAT-49 and VAB-43 switches and RDSh-I and RDSh-II relays.
The results of the experiments are impressive. The new method reduces the tripping threshold to 600–650 A, increases the selectivity of protection to 95%, and reduces the probability of false tripping by more than two times compared to traditional methods. The response time remains within 35–45 ms, meeting the requirements for high-speed systems. “The developed method is adapted to different network sections using the relative coordinates of the energy consumer on the supply section of the traction network and does not require complex digital equipment,” Malozyomov notes.
For the maritime sector, the implications of this research are significant. Electric transport networks are becoming increasingly important in maritime operations, from port facilities to onboard systems. Ensuring the reliability of these networks is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and safety. Malozyomov’s method offers a way to enhance protection without the need for extensive equipment upgrades, making it particularly valuable in remote or harsh environments where maintenance and upgrades can be challenging.
The simplicity and effectiveness of the method make it an attractive option for maritime professionals looking to improve the reliability of their electric transport networks. As the maritime industry continues to embrace electric and hybrid technologies, solutions like Malozyomov’s will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these systems. The research was published in the World Electric Vehicle Journal, known in English as the World Electric Vehicle Journal, providing a valuable resource for professionals in the field.