Performance of distribution networks with surge arresters considering lightning parameters in tropical zone

Abstract:
In this paper, the performance of a distribution network by the influence of indirect lightning strikes in a tropical area was assessed considering the influence of surge arresters. The above following the specified guidelines of the IEEE 1410 standard of 2010 for the calculation of the flashover rate. Lightning parameters from the tropical zone were used and compared with those proposed by CIGRÉ (temperate zone). This article was developed using the Yaluk Draw software to obtain the flashover rate of the lines over lossless and lossy grounds. Surge arresters were strategically placed along a 2 km distribution line at varying distances of 200, 500, and 1000 m from each other, aiming to observe their impact on lightning performance. The results reveal that, by adjusting the parameters for a tropical area, the resulting flashover rate surpasses the estimates provided by CIGRÉ. However, it is important to highlight that the implementation of arresters has had a positive impact on reducing the outages, achieving a significant decrease between 77% to 98% when surge arresters are installed every 200 meters along the distribution network. In general, it was found that the action of surge arrester in reducing the flashovers is more pronounced in temperate zones. When parameters of the tropical zone are considered, a better reduction is achieved in lines over lossless ground.