Collection Technique ..........................................................................

Cahier technique no. 18

Analysis of three-phase networks

in disturbed operating conditions
using symmetrical components

B. de Metz-Noblat

Building a New Electric World

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no. 18
Analysis of three-phase
networks in disturbed
operating conditions using
symmetrical components

Benoît de METZ-NOBLAT

A graduate engineer from ESE (Ecole Supérieure d’Electricité), he

worked for the Saint-Gobain group before joining Merlin Gerin in
1986. Currently attached to the “Technology & Innovations”
department, he is a member of the “Electrical Networks” working
group, which is responsible for studying electrical phenomena
relating to the operation of networks and their interaction with
equipment and devices.

ECT 18 first issue, October 2005

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.2
 Analysis of three-phase networks in
disturbed operating conditions using
symmetrical components

The dimensioning of an installation and the equipment to be used, the

settings for the protection devices, and the analysis of electrical
phenomena often require calculation of the currents and voltages in
electrical networks.

The purpose of this “Cahier Technique” is to set out a simple method of

calculating all these parameters in three-phase networks subject to
disturbance using the symmetrical components method, and to provide
specific application examples.

Contents
1 Introduction p. 4
2 Brief review of vector mathematics 2.1 Vector representation of a physical phenomenon p. 5
2.2 Basic definition p. 5
2.3 Vector representation p. 6
2.4 Symmetrical components p. 7
2.5 Analysis of a three-phase system into its symmetrical p. 8
components
2.6 Mathematical calculation of the symmetrical components p. 9
2.7 Conclusion: Relevance to electrical engineering p. 10
3 Basic applications 3.1 Method of calculating unbalanced states p. 11
3.2 Phase-to-ground fault (zero-sequence fault) p. 12
3.3 Two-phase to ground fault p. 13
3.4 Three-phase fault p. 14
3.5 Network with an unbalanced load p. 15
3.6 Network with one open phase p. 16
3.7 Impedances associated with symmetrical components p. 17
3.8 Summary formulae p. 19
4 Worked examples 4.1 Breaking capacity of a circuit-breaker at the supply end p. 20
4.2 Breaking capacity of circuit-breakers at the ends of a line p. 21
4.3 Settings for zero-sequence protection devices in a grounded p. 24
neutral MV network
4.4 Settings for a protection device with a negative-sequence p. 26
current in an electrical installation
4.5 Measuring the symmetrical components of a voltage p. 27
and current system
Appendix p. 29

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.3

1 Introduction
In normal, balanced, symmetrical operation, the
study of three-phase networks can be reduced to
the study of an equivalent single-phase network
with voltages equal to the phase to neutral
voltages of the network, currents equal to those
of the network and impedances equal to those of
the network, known as cyclic impedances.
Asymmetrical operation can occur in a network if
there is an unbalance in the voltage or
impedance system of the electrical elements
(due to a fault or by design).
If the asymmetry is significant, simplification is
no longer possible because the relations in the
various conductors cannot be determined by
Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.4
means of a cyclic impedance for each element of
the network.
The general method based on Ohm’s and
Kirchhoff’s laws is possible, but it is complex and
laborious.
The “symmetrical components” method
described in this document simplifies the
calculations and provides a much easier solution
by reducing it to the superposition of three
independent single-phase networks.
After a brief review of vector concepts, this
method is explained by reference to basic
applications on various types of short-circuit,
followed by worked examples of actual cases.
2 Brief review of vector mathematics
2.1 Vector representation of a physical phenomenon
A vibrating physical phenomenon is sinusoidal
when the elongation of a vibrating point is a
sinusoidal time function:
x = a cos(ωt + ϕ).
The application to electrical engineering, in
which voltages and currents are sinusoidal
phenomena, is well known.
c Consider a vector OM with modulus a, rotating
in the plane (Ox, Oy) about its origin O with a
constant angular velocity ω (see Fig. 1 ).
If at starting time t = 0, the angle (Ox, OM) has
the value ϕ, at time t it will have the value
(ωt + ϕ).
We can project the current vector OM onto the
Ox axis.
y at starting time t = 0; the modulus of the vector
+ω
M
a
ωt + ϕ
O x +a
-a x
Fig. 1
2.2 Basic definition
c Consider a sinusoidal vibrating electrical
phenomenon represented by a rotating vector V
(see Fig. 2 ).
This is in principle as follows:
c A reference axis Ox of unit vector x : x = 1.
c A direction of rotation conventionally defined
as positive in the anti-clockwise direction + .
c The vector V whose origin is reduced to O is
essentially characterized by:
v An amplitude V : At a given time the length of
the vector is numerically equal to the modulus of
the size of the phenomenon.
v A phase ϕ: At a given time this is the angle
(Ox, V) made by V with the reference axis Ox ,
taking into account the adopted direction of
rotation.
v An angular frequency: This is the constant
speed of rotation of the vector in radians per
second.
At time t, the algebraic value of its projection is:
x = a cos(ωt + ϕ). Thus:
v The movement of the projection of the end of
the vector rotating about the Ox axis is a
sinusoidal movement with amplitude a equal to
the modulus of this vector.
v The angular frequency ω of the sinusoidal
movement is equal to the angular velocity of the
rotating vector.
v The initial phase ϕ is equal to the angle made
by the rotating vector with the Ox axis at starting
time t = 0.
c In the same way, a rotating vector can be
made to correspond to any sine function
x = a cos(ωt + ϕ).
The function x is conventionally represented by
the vector OM in the position which it occupies
represents amplitude a of the sine function and
the angle (Ox, OM) represents its starting phase.
c The study of a sinusoidal physical
phenomenon can therefore be reduced to the
study of its corresponding vector. This is useful
because mathematical manipulation on vectors
is relatively straightforward.
This applies in particular to three-phase
electrical phenomena in which voltages and
currents are represented by rotating vectors.
+ V
ϕ
O
X x
Fig. 2
This is commonly expressed in revolutions per
second, in which case it is the frequency of the
phenomenon in Hz (1 Hz = 2π rd/s).
c A three-phase system is a set of 3 vectors
V1, V2 , V3 , with the same origin, the same
angular frequency and each with a constant
amplitude.
c An electrical system is linear when there is a
proportionality in the relations of causes to
effects.
Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.5
2.3 Vector representation
The vector V is traditionally represented in a
system of rectangular coordinate axes
y
(see Fig. 3 ). + Y
M
V = OM = OX + OY = OX x + OY y
c Operator “j”
V
To simplify operations on the vectors, V can be
represented in an equivalent way by a complex
Y
number using the operator “j”.
“j” is a vector operator which rotates the vector to O X X x
which the operation is applied through + π/2, in
other words jx = y . Fig. 3
Thus we can see that:
π
j2 = -1 (rotation of 2 = π) aV
2 +ω
π 3π
j3 = -1 (rotation of 3 = ) 120°
2 2
π
j4 = +1 (rotation of 4 = 2 π) 120° V
2
hence: 120°
(
V = OX x + OY jx = x OX + j OY )
2
a V
c Operator “a”
“a” is a vector operator which rotates the vector Fig. 4
to which the operation is applied through + 2π/3
(see Fig. 4 ).
Thus we can see that: This last relation can be verified graphically from
v a2 rotates a vector by: the figure, where we can see that the sum of the
vectors shown is zero:
2π 4π 2π
2 = (equivalent to - ) V + aV + a 2 V = 0
3 3 3
so V (1 + a + a2) = 0
v a3 rotates a vector by: therefore 1 + a + a2 = 0
2π
3 = 2π (equivalent to 0)
3
3
a = - 0.5 + j
2
3
a 2 = - 0.5 - j
2
so
a0 = a3 = a6… = 1
a = a4 = a7… a2 = a-2 = a-5…
a - a2 = je and 1 + a + a2 =0

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.6

2.4 Symmetrical components
Consider a set of three sinusoidal three-phase
vectors rotating at the same speed. They are
therefore fixed in relation to one another. V3
There are three specific arrangements in which
the vectors are symmetrical to one another and +ω
which are therefore known as “symmetrical
components”: 120°
120°
c The “positive-sequence” system
(see Fig. 5 ), in which V1, V2 , V3
V1
v have the same amplitude
120°
v are shifted by 120°
v are arranged such that an observer at rest V2
sees the vectors pass by in the order Fig. 5
V1, V2 , V3 ;
V1
V2
V2 = a 2 V1 = a V3 +ω
120°
V3 = a V1
V1
c The “negative-sequence” system (see Fig. 6 ),
in which V1, V2 , V3 120°
v have the same amplitude 120°
v are shifted by 120°
v are arranged such that an observer at rest
sees the vectors pass by in the order
V1, V3 , V2 ; V3

V1 Fig. 6

V2 = a V1
V3 = a 2 V1 = a V2 V3 +ω
V2
V1
c The “zero-sequence” system (see Fig. 7 ), in
which V1, V2 , V3
v have the same amplitude
v are in phase and therefore co-linear, so an
observer at rest sees them all pass by at the Fig. 7
same time.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.7

2.5 Analysis of a three-phase system into its symmetrical components
Consider any three-phase system formed from following equations:
three vectors V1, V2 , V3 (see basic definitions); V1 = Vd + Vi + Vo
we can show that this system is the sum of three
balanced three-phase systems: V2 = a 2 Vd + a Vi + Vo
Positive-sequence, negative-sequence and
V3 = a Vd + a 2 Vi + Vo
zero-sequence.
c Positive-sequence system: Vd1 , Vd2 , Vd3 We can calculate the symmetrical components:

( )
c Negative-sequence system: Vi1 , Vi2 , Vi3 1
c Zero-sequence system: Vo1 , Vo2 , Vo3 Vd = V1 + a V2 + a 2 V3
3
This gives:
V1 = Vd1 + Vi1 + Vo1
1
(
Vi = V1 + a 2 V2 + a V3
3
)
V2 = Vd2 + Vi2 + Vo2 1
(
Vo = V1 + V2 + V3
3
)
V3 = Vd3 + Vi3 + Vo3 Their geometric construction is easy by taking
If we choose the vectors with index 1 as origin into account the meaning of the operator “a”
vectors and apply the operator “a”, we obtain the (rotation by 2π/3) (see Fig. 8 ).

O
V2 V2

V3

Vd 120°
O V1

V3
aV2

120°

Original system
V1 Vd =
1
3
(V1 + a V2 + a 2 V3 )

a2 V2
O

Vi V3
Vo
O

aV3 V2

V1

Vi =
1
(V1 + a 2 V2 + a V3 ) Vo =
1
3
(V1 + V2 + V3 )
3 V1
a2 V2
Fig. 8 : Geometric construction of symmetrical components with operator “a”.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.8

 More practically, we can construct the the triangle ABC; a simple calculation (see
symmetrical components directly on the figure paragraph below) shows that:
without having to transfer vectors (see Fig. 9 ).
Consider the points D and E such that BDCE is
EA DA
a rhombus composed of two equilateral triangles Vd = Vi = Vo = OO'
BDC and BCE and with O’ as the barycenter of 3 3

Vd
V2
B

V3 V2
V3 C

O O O
Vo

D V1
Vi

Original system V1 A

Fig. 9 : Geometric construction of symmetrical components on the three-phase system.

2.6 Mathematical calculation of the symmetrical components

Consider the points D and E such that (BDCE) is DA = OA + a 2 OB + a OC
a rhombus composed of two equilateral triangles
(BDC) and (BCE). = V1 + a 2 V2 + a V3 = 3Vi
EA = EB + BA , thus EB = a 2 BC therefore DA
Vi =
EA = a BC + BA
2 3

= a 2 BO + a 2 OC + BO + OA Let O’ be the barycenter of triangle ABC, then

( )
= OA + OB -a 2 -1 + a 2 OC
O' A + O' B + O' C = 0
V1 + V2 + V3 = 3Vo
= OA + a OB + a 2 OC
= OA + OB + OC
= V1 + aV2 + a 2 V3 = 3Vd
= OO' + O' A + OO' + O' B + OO' + O' C
EA
Vd = = 3 OO' + O' A + O' B + O' C
3
= 3 OO'
DA = DB + BA , thus DB = a BC therefore
Vo = OO'
DA = a BC + BA
= a BO + a OC + BO + OA
= OA + OB(-a -1) + a OC

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.9

2.7 Conclusion: Relevance to electrical engineering
The method described in the previous section is
directly relevant to electricity in the case of linear
three-phase networks with a single frequency. Io
This is because three-phase systems applied to Io
electrical networks can be unbalanced by load or Inputs Outputs
fault asymmetries. 3I o Io
In addition, the simplicity provided by
calculations reduced to the superposition of E
three independent systems, which are treated Zo = E / I o
separately by reducing each to the simple single-
phase case, is both practical and effective.
Note that these mathematical manipulations
correspond well to a physical reality of the Fig. 10 : Principle of measuring the zero-sequence
phenomena: the symmetrical impedances of the input impedance of an electrical element.
electrical equipment can be measured (see
chapter 3), as can the symmetrical components Notes
of a voltage or current system (see chapter 4,
example 4). c In the remainder of the text, voltage and
current vectors are shown without arrows, for the
As an illustration, Figure 10 shows the method
sake of simplicity.
for measuring the zero-sequence impedance of
an electrical element. The three input terminals c The symmetrical components of voltages and
are joined together, as are the three output currents chosen to represent the system in
terminals, the whole system is supplied with a simple terms are those of phase 1:
phase to neutral voltage E and a current Io flows Vi = Vd + Vi + Vo
in each phase; the zero-sequence impedance is c The residual vector Gresidual = 3 x Go
then defined by Zo = V / Io. corresponds to any zero-sequence vector Go.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.10

3 Basic applications
3.1 Method of calculating unbalanced states
Superposition principle
Let us examine the behavior of a linear,
symmetrical three-phase network, in other words
one that is composed of constant, identical
impedances for the three phases (as is the case
in practice), comprising only balanced
electromotive forces but in which the currents
and voltages may be unbalanced due to
connection to an asymmetrical zone D.
Electromotive forces (emf) are inherently
positive-sequence systems, since the e.m.f. of
negative-sequence and zero-sequence systems
are zero.
The operation of the network is interpreted by
considering the superposition of three states,
corresponding to the positive-sequence,
negative-sequence and zero-sequence systems
respectively.
In this linear, symmetrical network, the currents
in each system are linked solely to the voltages
in the same system and in the same way, by
means of the impedances of the system in
question. Note that these impedances Zd, Zi and
Zo depend on actual impedances, in particular
mutual inductances.
For a network comprising a single e.m.f., the
symmetrical components of voltage and current
being respectively Vd, Vi, Vo, Id, Ii, Io, at point D
of the asymmetry, the relations defining the three
states are:
E = Vd + Zd × Id
0 = Vi + Zi × Ii
0 = Vo + Zo × Io.
They are shown in simplified form in Figure 11 .
These equations remain valid for networks
comprising multiple sources, provided that E and
Zd, Zi, Zo are considered respectively as the
e.m.f. and as the internal impedances of the
Thevenin-equivalent generator.
Zd
E
Id
Vd
Zi
Ii
Vi
Zo
Io Vo
Fig. 11
Practical solution method
The method summarized below is described in
detail in the next section (phase-to-ground fault).
c The network is divided into two zones:
v An asymmetrical zone D (unbalanced network)
v A symmetrical zone S (balanced network).
c We write the equations linking currents and
voltages:
v In zone D (actual components)
v In zone S (symmetrical components)
v Continuity at the D-S boundary
v Operation in zone S.
c By solving the equations mathematically, we
can calculate the values of the symmetrical
components and the actual components of the
currents and voltages in zones D and S.
Note that we can calculate the values of the
symmetrical components directly using
representative diagrams of the symmetrical
systems (see Fig. 11).
Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.11
3.2 Phase-to-ground fault (zero-sequence fault)
The circuit is assumed to be a no-load circuit.

Writing the equations

c Isolation of the asymmetrical zone (see Fig. 12 ) E Phase 1
c Equations for the actual components in (D)
a2 E Phase 2
I 2 = I 3 = 0
V = Z × I
 1 1
aE Phase 3
These equations describe the case in question.
They are the only ones which are specific to this I d , I i, I o
example. Vd, Vi, Vo
Zone S
c Equations for the symmetrical components
I3 I2 I1
in (S)
I1 = I d + I i + I o V3 V2 V1
 Z
I 2 = a I d + a I i + I o
2 Zone D
I 3 = a I d + a 2 I i + I o

V1 = Vd + Vi + Vo
V2 = a 2Vd + aVi + Vo
 Fig. 12
V3 = aVd + a 2Vi + Vo

These equations link the actual currents and the E

Vd = E - Zd × I d = E - Zd
actual voltages respectively to their symmetrical Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
components. They are the same in all Zi + Zo + 3Z
calculations for unbalanced states. They are Vd = E
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
derived from the definitions set out earlier
(see chapter 2).
Vi = -Zi × I i
c Continuity at the D-S boundary
E
By combining the equations for the actual Vi = -Zi
components in (D) and the equations for the Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
symmetrical components in (S) we obtain:
a 2 I d + a I i + I o = 0 Vo = -Zo × I o
 E
a I d + a I i + I o = 0
2
Vo = -Zo
Vd + Vi + Vo = Z × I Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
 1
c Network diagram based on symmetrical
 I1

⇒ I d = I i = I o = 3
components (see Fig. 13 )

Vd + Vi + Vo = 3Z × I o

c Equations for operation in S Vd

E = Vd + Zd × I d Id
0 = Vi + Zi × I i E
0 = Vo + Zo × I o Zd
Vi
These three equations are found in all
calculations for unbalanced states comprising Ii
just one voltage source.
Zi
Vo
Solving the equations
c Values of the symmetrical components of the Io
currents and voltages
Zo
E + 0 + 0 = Vd + Vi + Vo + Zd × Id + Zi × Ii + Zo × Io I d = Ii = I o
= 3Z × Io + (Zd + Zi + Zo) Io
ie. 3Z
E
I o = I d = Ii = Fig. 13
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.12

 c Values of the actual voltages and currents NB:
I1 = Id + Ii + Io The terms k1 and k2 are known as ground fault
factors; their values vary between 1 and 1.8.
3E
I1 =
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z The ground fault factor at a given point is the
I2 = 0 ratio of the highest rms voltage between a
healthy phase and ground when the network is
I3 = 0 affected by a fault, relative to the rms voltage
between phase and ground in the absence of the
V1 = Z x I1 fault.
E Figure 14 shows the overall situation in the
V1 = 3Z special case where Z = 0 (bolted fault) and
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
Zd = Zi ≈ Xd.
V2 = a 2Vd + aVi + Vo The range of high values for Xo/Xd corresponds
to isolated or compensated neutral networks.
Zi (a 2 - a) + Zo (a 2 - 1) + 3a 2Z
=E The range of low positive values for Xo/Xd
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z corresponds to neutral-to-ground networks.
 Zd + a 2Zi + aZo  The range of low negative values for Xo/Xd is
V2 = a 2E 1-  = a Ek1
2
unsuitable in practice due to the existence of
 Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z  resonances.
Zd + a 2Zi + aZo
where k1 = 1-
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z

V3 = aVd + a 2Vi + Vo 2.5 Ro/X =1

1 0
Zi (a - a ) + Zo (a -1) + 3aZ
2
=E
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z 2.0 50 3

 Zd + aZi+ a 2Zo  5 1
V3 = aE 1-  = a Ek 2
2 k 1.5
 Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z 
Ro/X1 =0
Zd + aZi + a 2Zo 1.0
where k 2 = 1-
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
Special cases 0.5
Not suitable for
c Bolted fault practical applications
If Z = 0, the phase-to-ground fault current takes
0
3E -100 -10 -8 -6 -4 -2 0 2 4 6 8 10 100
the value: I1 =
Zd + Zi + Zo Xo/X 1
IEC 1 03096

c Impedance ground fault

If 3Z >> Zd + Zi + Zo, the phase-to-ground fault
Fig. 14: Ground fault factor as a function of Xo/X1 for
E R1/X1 = 0 and R = 0 (graph according to IEC 60071-2).
current is defined by the fault impedance: I1 =
Z

3.3 Two-phase to ground fault (see Fig. 15 overleaf)

Writing the equations
c In zone (D) c Continuity at the (D) - (S) boundary
I1 = 0 I d + I i + I o = 0
V = V = Z (I + I ) 
 2 3 2 3 Vd = Vi
c In zone (S) Vo = Vd + 3Z × I o
I1 = I d + I i + I o c Operation in (S)

I 2 = a I d + a I i + I o
2
E = Vd + Zd × I d

I 3 = a I d + a 2 I i + I o 0 = Vi + Zi × I i
 0 = Vo + Zo × I o
V1 = Vd + Vi + Vo
V2 = a 2Vd + aVi + Vo

V3 = aVd + a 2Vi + Vo

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.13

 Zi
I 2 + I 3 = - 3E
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z)
E Phase 1
3Zi (Zo + 2Z)
V1 = E
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z)
a2 E Phase 2
- 3Z × Zi
V2 = V3 = E
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z)
aE Phase 3

I d , I i, I o c Network diagram based on symmetrical

Vd, Vi, Vo components (see Fig. 16 )
Zone S
Special cases
I3 I2 I1
c Bolted fault
V3 V2 V1 If Z = 0, the phase-to-ground fault current
Z assumes the value:
Zone D
3E × Zi
I2 + I3 = -
Zd × Zi + Zi × Zo + Zd × Zo
c Two-phase fault
Fig. 15
If Z = ∞, the phase fault current is then:
(a 2 - a) 3
Solving the equations I2 = - I3 = E = -jE
Zd + Zi Zd + Zi
Zi + Zo + 3Z
Id = E
Zd × Zi + (Zo + 3Z)(Zd + Zi)
-E (Zo + 3Z) Vd
Ii =
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z)
Id
-E × Zi E
Io =
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z) Zd

E × Zi (Zo + 3Z) Vi
Vd = Vi =
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z) Ii
E × Zi × Zo
Vo = Zi
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z)
3Z
I1 = 0 Io
Zo + 3Z - aZi
I2 = -j 3 E Zo
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z) Vo
Zo + 3Z - a 2Zi
I3 = j 3 E Fig. 16
Zd × Zi + (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z)

3.4 Three-phase fault (see Fig. 17 overleaf)

Writing the equations c Continuity at the (D) - (S) boundary
c In zone (D)
 Vo
V1 = V2 = V3 = Z (I1+ I 2 + I 3 ) I1+ I 2 + I 3 = 3 I o = Z

c In zone (S) Vd = Vi = 0

I1 = I d + I i + I o V1 = V2 = V3 = Vo
 
I 2 = a I d + a I i + I o
2

I 3 = a I d + a 2 I i + I o
 c Operation in (S)
V1 = Vd + Vi + Vo
V2 = a 2Vd + aVi + Vo E = Vd + Zd × I d
 0 = Vi + Zi × I i
V3 = aVd + a 2Vi + Vo 0 = Vo + Zo × I o

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.14

 E
I2 = a2
Zd
E Phase 1 E
I3 = a
Zd
a2 E Phase 2 V1 = V2 = V3 = 0

The results are independent of the values Z, Zi

aE Phase 3
and Zo.
c Network diagram based on symmetrical
Zone S I d , I i, I o components (see Fig. 18 ).
Vd, Vi, Vo

I3 I2 I1 Vd = 0

V3 V2 V1
Z Zone D
Id
E
Fig. 17 Zd

Solving the equations

Zi
E
Id = and I i = I o = 0
Zd
Vd = Vi = Vo = 0 Zo
E
I1 = Fig. 18
Zd

3.5 Network with an unbalanced load (see Fig. 19 )

Writing the equations

c In zone (D)
E Phase 1
I 1 = 0
V - V = I Zc = − I Zc
 3 2 3 2 a2 E Phase 2

c In zone (S) aE Phase 3

I1 = I d + I i + I o I d , I i, I o

I 2 = a I d + a I i + I o
2 Vd, Vi, Vo
Zone S
I 3 = a I d + a 2 I i + I o
 I3 I2 I1
V1 = Vd + Vi + Vo
V2 = a 2Vd + aVi + Vo V3 Zc V2 V1

V3 = aVd + a 2Vi + Vo Zone D

c Continuity at the (D) - (S) boundary Fig. 19

I o = 0
I d = − I i Solving the equations
Vd − Vi = Zc × I d
E
Id =
c Operation in (S) Zd + Zi + Zc
E
E = Vd + Zd × I d Ii = -
Zd + Zi + Zc
0 = Vi + Zi × I i
0 = Vo + Zo × I o Io = 0

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.15

 E (Zi + Zc) and V1, V2, V3 tend towards the values of the
Vd = symmetrical network, in other words towards E,
Zd + Zi + Zc
E × Zi a2E, aE.
Vi =
Zd + Zi + Zc c Two-phase short-circuit clear of ground
Vo = 0 If Zc = 0 the fault current is then equal to
E 3
I1 = 0 I3 = - I3 = j
Zd + Zi
E 3
I2 = -j
Zd + Zi + Zc
E 3 Vd
I3 = j
Zd + Zi + Zc Id
E (2 Zi + Zc) E
V1 = Zd
Zd + Zi + Zc
2 Zc
E (a Zc - Zi)
V2 =
Zd + Zi + Zc Vi
E (a Zc - Zi) Ii
V3 =
Zd + Zi + Zc
Zi
c Network diagram based on symmetrical
components (see Fig. 20 ).

Special cases Zo
c Low-power load
Fig. 20
If Zc → ∞ then I1 and I3 → 0

3.6 Network with one open phase (see Fig. 21 )

Writing the equations
c In zone (D)
I1 V1 V'1
I 1 = 0 E Phase 1

V2 = V2′ I2 V2 V'2
 a2 E Phase 2
V3 = V3′
I3 V3 V'3
aE Phase 3
c In zone (S)
Zone D
I1 = I d + I i + I o Zone S

I 2 = a 2 I d + a I i + I o
 Fig. 21
I 3 = a I d + a I i + I o
2

V1 = Vd + Vi + Vo c Operation in (S)

V2 = a Vd + aVi + Vo
2

 E = Vd + zd × I d
V3 = aVd + a Vi + Vo
2

V ′ = V ′d + V ′i + V ′o 0 = Vi + zi × I i
 1 0 = Vo + zo × I o
V ′ = a 2V ′d + aV ′i + V ′o 
 2 0 = V ′d − z′d × I d
V ′ = aV ′d + a 2V ′i + V ′o 
 3 0 = V ′i − z′i × I i
0 = V ′o − z′o × I o
c Continuity at the (D) - (S) boundary 
Zd = zd + z′d

I d + I i + I o = 0 Zi = zi + z′i
 Zo = zo + z′o
Vd − V ′d = Vi − V ′i 

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.16

 Solving the equations a [z′d (Zi + Zo)+ Zi × Zo] + a 2Zo × zi + Zi × zo
V3 = V3′ = E
Zi + Zo Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
Id = E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
c Network diagram based on symmetrical
Zo
I i = -E components (see Fig. 22 ).
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
Zi Special cases
I o = -E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo c If the load is isolated, the zero-sequence

Vd = E
[z′d (Zi + Zo)+ Zi × Zo] impedance of the system is very high.
The current in the non-open phases is:
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
z′d (Zi+ Zo) 3
and V ′d = E I 2 = - I 3 = - jE
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo Zd + Zi
Zo × zi
Vi = E The voltage in the open phase is:
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
Zo × z′i Zi
and V ′i = -E V1 - V1′ = 3E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo Zd + Zi
Zi × zo
Vo = E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
Zi × z′o Vd V’d
and V ′o = -E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
I1 = 0 E
2 zd z’d
Zi (a - 1)- j 3 Zo Id
I2 = E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
Zi (a 2 - 1)+ j 3 Zo Vi V’i
I3 = E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
z′d (Zi + Zo)+ Zi × Zo + zi × Zo + Zi × zo
V1 = E zi z’i
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo Ii
z′d (Zi+ Zo)- Zo × z′i - Zi × z′o
and V1′ = E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo
Vo V’o
ie.
Zi × Zo
V1 - V1′ = 3E
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo zo
Io
z’o
a [z′d (Zi + Zo)+ Zi × Zo] + aZo × zi + Zi × zo
2
V2 = V2′ = E Fig. 22
Zd × Zi + Zd × Zo + Zi × Zo

3.7 Impedances associated with symmetrical components

In this section we consider the main elements negative-sequence and zero-sequence
which can be involved in an electrical network. components, which move from the location of
For rotating machines and transformers, the the fault towards the balanced elements,
orders of magnitude of the impedances are gradually weakening as they do so.
shown as percentages: c When disturbance occurs, the positive-
sequence reactance of a machine varies from its
 Sn 
 z % = 100 Z U2 
subtransient value to its synchronous value. In a
 n fault calculation, the following percentage values
can be used:
where:
Un = rated voltage,
Sn = rated apparent power,
Reactance % Salient poles Constant air gap
Z = cyclic impedance.
Subtransient 30 20
Synchronous machines Transient 40 25
Synchronous 120 200
Generators generate the positive-sequence
component of the power. Faults produce the

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.17

 c The negative-sequence reactance is less than
the transient positive-sequence reactance, at
around 20%.
c The zero-sequence reactance is only taken
into account if the neutral of the alternator is
connected to ground directly or via a coil/resistor.
Its value is around half that of the subtransient
reactance, at around 10%.
Asynchronous machines
In motors the positive-sequence component
generates rotating fields in the positive direction
(useful torque).
The negative-sequence component produces
rotating fields which generate braking torques.
c The positive-sequence reactance can
generally be considered as a passive
impedance: U2 / (P- jQ).
c The negative-sequence reactance varies
between 15% and 30%.
It is approximately equal to the starting
reactance.
c The zero-sequence reactance is very low.
Transformers
The circulation of a zero-sequence current in the
windings of a transformer requires a connection
whose neutral point is connected to ground or to
a neutral conductor.
c In positive-sequence and negative-sequence
systems they give currents an impedance equal
to their short-circuit impedance of around 4% to
15%.
c The zero-sequence reactance depends on the
way in which the windings are connected and on
the nature of the magnetic circuit.
The table in Figure 23 sets out the orders of
magnitude of this reactance and shows various
possible connections. A table in the Appendix
shows the value or the method of calculating Xo
for each connection mode.

Transformer Zero-sequence A connection is designated by a set of two

(seen from secondary) reactance symbols:
No neutral ∞ c The first (upper-case) is assigned to the highest
Yyn or Zyn Free flux ∞ voltage.
Forced flux 10 to 15 Xd c The second (lower-case) is assigned to the
Dyn or YNyn Xd lowest voltage.
Primary zn 0.1 to 0.2 Xd The designation also includes the phase angle
value (vector group). For economic reasons and to
obtain an adequate tolerance of the load unbalance
A A
between phases, the usual connections in HV/LV
distribution are as follows:
c Yzn 11 for 50 kVA,
C B C B c Dyn 11 from 100 to 3150 kVA. Where:
D : Delta connection in HV
Star connection Delta connection
(symbol ) (symbol ∆) d : Delta connection in LV
Y : Star connection in HV
A
y : Star connection in LV
Z : Zigzag connection in HV
z : Zigzag connection in LV
C B N : External neutral in HV
n : External neutral in LV
Zig-zag connection (symbol Z)
11 : Vector group defining the phase angle
between HV and LV.
Zigzag connections are only used on the
secondary side of distribution transformers.
Fig. 23

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.18

Overhead lines
Let us consider transposed lines:
c The positive-sequence or negative-sequence
impedance and capacity depend on the
geometry of the line.
c The zero-sequence impedance is roughly
three times the positive-sequence impedance.
The zero-sequence capacity is around 0.6 times
the positive-sequence capacity.
Cables
c The positive-sequence and negative-sequence
reactance and capacity depend on the geometry
of the cables.
c The zero-sequence characteristics of a cable
cannot easily be deduced from the positive-
sequence and negative-sequence
characteristics. They are generally negligible in
comparison with those of the transformers they
are supplying.

Line LV MV HV Cable LV MV HV
Rd = Ri Ω/km 0.3 0.7 0.02 to 0.12 Rd = Ri Ω/km 0.12 to 0.16 0.08 to 0.16 0.02 to 0.05
Xd = Xi Ω/km 0.3 0.4 0.2 to 0.4 Xd = Xi Ω/km 0.06 to 0.10 0.08 to 0.12 0.1 to 0.2
Cd = Ci nF/km 10 9 to 13 Cd = Ci µF/km 1 0.1 to 0.6 0.2
µS/km 3.3 3 to 4 mS/km 0.3 0.03 to 0.2 0.07
Ro Ω/km 0.25 Ro Ω/km 1 0.1
Xo Ω/km 1.8 0.75 to 1.5 Xo Ω/km 0.12 to 0.2 0.16
Co nF/km 5 4.5 to 9 Co µF/km 2 0.1 to 0.6 0.1 to 0.6
µS/km 1.5 to 3 mS/km 0.6 0.03 to 0.2 0.03 to 0.2

3.8 Summary formulae

Notation c Symmetrical impedances = Zd, Zi, Zo
c rms phase-to-phase voltage = U c Short-circuit impedance = Zc
c rms phase-to-neutral voltage V = U/e c Ground impedance = Z
c Short-circuit current in module = Isc The table below summarizes the currents in the
c Ground fault current in module = Iground module in various asymmetries.

Type of asymmetry Impedance asymmetry Solid asymmetry

(Z = 0 and/or Zc = 0)

Single-phase U 3 3V U 3 3V
I sc = = I sc = =
short-circuit Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z Zd + Zi + Zo Zd + Zi + Zo Zd + Zi + Zo

Two-phase short- U 3 Zi U 3 Zi
I ground = I ground =
circuit to ground (Zc = 0) Zd x Zi (Zd + Zi)(Zo + 3Z) Zd x Zi + Zi x Zo + Zd x Zo

Two-phase short-
U V 3 U V 3
circuit clear of ground I sc = = I sc = =
Zd + Zi + Zc Zd + Zi + Zo Zd + Zi Zd + Zi
(Z = ∞)

U V U V
Three-phase short-circuit I sc = = I sc = =
Zd + Zc 3 Zd + Zc Zd 3 Zd
(any Z)

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.19

4 Worked examples

4.1 Breaking capacity of a circuit-breaker at the supply end (see Fig. 24 )

v Total impedances:
Positive-sequence Z = j1.22 Ω
 
Negative-sequence Z = j1.17 Ω
Zero-sequence Zt = j1.04 Ω
c Short-circuit currents
  v Three-phase
 
U 36
I sc = 3 = 3 = 17 kA
Zd 1.22

 
   v Single-phase
  
U 3
Fig. 24 I sc =
Zd + Zi + Zo

Problem 36 3
= = 18 kA
What should be the breaking power of the 1.22 + 1.17 + 1.0
circuit-breaker? v Two-phase clear of ground
Solution U 36
I sc = = = 15 kA
When the circuit-breaker is tripped, the aperiodic Zd + Zi 1.22 + 1.17
component is switched off inside the network but v Two-phase-to-ground
not inside the windings of the alternator.
c Impedances U Zo - a Zi
I sc =
v of the alternator reduced to the secondary Zd × Zi + Zi × Zo + Zo × Zd
transformer: 36 × 1.915
= = 17.6 kA
35 362 3.91
Positive - sequence Za = × = j 0.18 Ω
100 2500 c The circuit-breaker must therefore break a
25 362 short-circuit current of 18 kA, giving a breaking
Negative - sequence Za = × = j 0.13 Ω
100 2500 capacity of:
Zero-sequence Za = disregarded 18 x 36 e = 1122 MVA
v of the transformer reduced to the secondary
transformer:
8 362
Positive - sequence Zt = × = j 1.04 Ω
100 100
Negative-sequence Zt = j1.04 Ω
Zero-sequence Zt = j1.04 Ω

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.20

4.2 Breaking capacity of circuit-breakers at the ends of a line (see Fig. 25 )
Problem
In a 60 kV network, determine the breaking
capacity of the circuit-breakers at substations C
and E supplying the 15 km line.
The short-circuit reactance of the power station
unit and network transformers is 10% and that of
the other transformers is 8%.
For a 60 kV line, the reactance is:
c 0.40 Ω/km in a positive-sequence or negative-
sequence state,
c 3 × 0.40 Ω/km in a zero-sequence state.
The power station units have a positive-sequence
or negative-sequence reactance of 25%.
The active power loads P have an estimated
equivalent reactance of j × 0.6U2/P.

40 MVA

40 MVA

30 MW
A

40 km 60 km

15 MVA 40 MVA

8 MW 12 MVA 10 MW 15 km 20 MVA 14 MW
B C
E
10 MW

15 MVA
50 MVA
40 km 50 km

150 kV
network
D
1500 MVA

20 MVA

20 MVA

Fig. 25

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.21

 Solution U2 8 602
h = j Usc = × = j 19.2 Ω
c Global positive-sequence or negative-sequence Psc 100 15
diagram (reduction to 60 kV) (see Fig. 26 )
U2 602
i= j × 0.6 = × 0.6 = j 216 Ω
P 10
U2 25 602 25
a=j × = × = j 22.5 Ω U2 10 602
Psc 100 40 100 j = j Usc = × = j 18 Ω
Psc 100 20
U2 10 602
b = j Usc × = = j9 Ω U2 25 602 25
Psc 100 400 k=j × = × = j 45 Ω
Psc 100 20 100
C1 = j 0.40 × 60 = j 24 Ω U2 8 602
l = j Usc = × = j 7.2 Ω
C2 = j 0.40 × 50 = j 20 Ω Psc 100 40
C3 = j 0.40 × 40 = j 16 Ω U2 602
m= j × 0,6 = × 0.6 = j 72 Ω
C4 = j 0.40 × 40 = j 16 Ω P 30
U2 10 602
n = j Usc = × = j 7.2 Ω
U2 8 602 Psc 100 50
d = j Usc × = = j 19.2 Ω
Psc 100 15 U2 602
2 2
o=j = = j 2.4 Ω
U 60 Psc 1500
e=j × 0.6 = × 0.6 = j 216 Ω
P 10 p = j 0.4 × 15 = j 2.4 Ω
U2 8 602 U2 8 602
f = j Usc = × = j 24 Ω q = j Usc = × = j 14.4 Ω
Psc 100 12 Psc 100 20
U2 602 U2 602
g= j × 0.6 = × 0.6 = j 270 Ω r=j × 0.6 = × 0.6 = j 154 Ω
P 8 P 14

d
m
c4 c1
e
g f l
E
B C
p q r
n
i
c3 c2
o
h

Fig. 26

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.22

c Global zero-sequence diagram (reduction to c Dimensioning of the line circuit-breaker at C
60 kV) (see Fig. 27 ) Case 1: Busbar fault (see Fig. 29 )
The substation transformers stop zero-sequence Zd = j 6 + j 168.4 = j 174.4 Ω
currents in the delta windings. Zo = ∞
b’ = b = j 9 Ω v Three-phase Isc is equal to:
c’1 = 3c1 = j 72 Ω U 60
= = 0.195 kA
c’2 = 3c2 = j 60 Ω Zd 3 174.4 3
c’3 = 3c3 = j 48 Ω so Psc = UI e = 20.7 MVA
c’4 = 3c4 = j 48 Ω v Single-phase Isc is equal to:
d’ = ∞
f’ = ∞ U 3
=0
h’ = ∞ Zd + Zi + Zo
j’ = j = j 18 Ω so Psc = 0
l’ = ∞ Case 2: Line fault (see Fig. 30 overleaf)
n’ = n = j 7,2 Ω Zd = j 6.45 Ω
p’ = 3p = j 18 Ω Zo = j 6.09 Ω
q’ = ∞ v Three-phase Isc is equal to:
c Reduced diagrams U 60
For the study with which we are concerned, we = = 5.37 kA
Zd 3 6.45 3
can reduce the diagrams to focus on C and E
only (see Fig. 28 ). so Psc = UI e = 558.1 MVA

Positive-sequence/negative-sequence diagram
j6 Ω j168.4 Ω
b' C E

j6.45 Ω
A

d'

c'4 c'1 Zero-sequence diagram

l' j18 Ω
C E
∞
f' E
B C j6.09 Ω
p' q'

c'3 c'2 n'

Fig. 28

h' Positive-sequence diagram

j6 Ω j168.4 Ω
C E
D

j' Zero-sequence diagram

j18 Ω
C E
∞
Fig. 27 Fig. 29

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.23

 Positive-sequence diagram Positive-sequence diagram

C j6 Ω
C E
line open

j6.45 Ω j6.45 Ω

Zero-sequence diagram Zero-sequence diagram

j18 Ω
C C E
line open

j6.09 Ω j6.09 Ω

Fig. 30 Fig. 31

v Single-phase Isc is equal to: Positive-sequence diagram

U 3 60 3 j168,4 Ω
= = 5.47 kA E
Zd + Zi + Zo 18.99
so Psc = UI e = 568.7 MVA
The line circuit-breaker at point C must therefore Zero-sequence diagram
be dimensioned to 570 MVA.
E
c Dimensioning of the line circuit-breaker at E ∞
Case 1: Busbar fault (see Fig. 31 )
Fig. 32
Zd = j 6 + j 6.45 = j12.45 Ω
Zo = j 18 + j 6.09 = j 24.09 Ω
v Three-phase Isc is equal to: v Three-phase Isc is equal to:
U 60 U 60
= = 2.782 kA = = 0.206 kA
Zd 3 12.45 3 Zd 3 168.4 3
so Psc = UI e = 289.2 MVA so Psc = UI e = 21.4 MVA
v Single-phase Isc is equal to: v Single-phase Isc is equal to:
U 3 60 3 U 3
= = 2.121 kA =0
Zd + Zi + Zo 48.99 Zd + Zi + Zo
so Psc = UI e = 220.5 MVA so Psc = 0
Case 2: Line fault (see Fig. 32 ) The line circuit-breaker at point E must therefore
Zd = j168.4 Ω be dimensioned to 290 MVA.
Zo = ∞

4.3 Settings for zero-sequence protection devices in a grounded neutral MV network

(see Fig. 33 overleaf)

Problem impedances of value 3Rn, each placed on one

What should the intensity setting be for the zero-
sequence relays on the various feeders?
Solution
We start from the formulae in the section on
phase-to-ground faults; in addition, we note that
the ground impedance Rn is equivalent to three
phase of the network connected directly to
ground. The zero-sequence current at the point
of the ground fault splits into two parallel
channels:
c The first corresponds to the neutral impedance
3Rn in series with the zero-sequence impedance

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.24

of the transformer and of the section of
conductor between the fault and the transformer.
ie. 3Rn + ZOT + ZOL. n
c The second corresponds to the parallel
connection of the conductor capacitive circuits: C on
-j
 n  i
 ∑ Coi  ω HV / MV
 1 

Strictly speaking, we should take the transformer

and line impedances into account. They are,
however, negligible in comparison with the Rn
capacitive impedances.
2
Ground fault current I1 (see § 3.2):
3E
I1 = Co 2
Zd + Zi + Zo + 3Z
where :
Zo = (3Rn + ZOT + ZOL )
1

in parallel with
I1
-j Co1 Z fault
 n 
 ∑ Coi  ω
 1 
so
3Rn + ZOT + ZOL
Zo =
 n 
1+ j(3Rn + ZOT + ZOL ) ∑ Coi  ω
 1  Fig. 33

By substitution:
  n  
3E 1+ j(3Rn + ZOT + ZOL ) ∑ Coi  ω 
  1  
I1 =
  n  
(Zd + Zi+ 3Z)1+ j(3Rn + ZOT + ZOL) ∑ Coi  ω  + 3(3Rn + ZOT + ZOL)
  1  

If, as is often the case, Zd, Zi, ZOT, ZOL are
negligible in comparison with 3Rn and the fault is
bolted (Z = 0) then:
E  n  3 x 200 . 10-9 x 314 x 15000/e =1.63 A/km or
I1 ≈ + j3 ∑ Coi  ω E
Rn  1 
The contribution of each healthy feeder to the
ground current is therefore 3 Coi ω E (in module).
The setting for the zero-sequence relay for each
of these feeders must therefore be greater than
this capacitive current, to prevent unintentional
tripping. This current depends on the type and
length of the conductors.
For example:
v For a 15 kV line the zero-sequence capacity is
around 5 nF/km, giving a current of:
3 x 5 x 10-9 . 314 x 15000/e = 0.04 A/km or 4 A
per 100 km.
v For a 15 kV three-core cable the zero-
sequence capacity is around 200 nF/km, giving a
current of:
almost 2 A per km.
v It is worth comparing these capacitive current
values with those for the current crossing the
neutral impedance, which currently amount to
several tens to several hundreds of amps.
Numerical application and graphical
representation (see Fig. 34 overleaf)
Consider a bolted fault on a 5500 V - 50 Hz
impedant neutral power system, where:
Rn = 100 Ω
Co = 1 µF
Z = Zd = Zi = ZOT = ZOL = 0

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.25

 5500
E= = 3175 V
3
V3 E3
3Rn (5500 V) (3175 V)
Zo =
1+ j3Rn Co ω

3175 120°
I1 = + j3 × 3175 × 10-6 × 314 Vo
100 120° (3175 V) Vd
≈ (32 + j3) amps
120° E1
I2 = I3 = 0 (3175 V)
120°
V1 = 0
 3
V2 = ja E 3 = -3175 1.5 + j volts
 2  V2 E2
(5500 V) (3175 V)
 3
V3 = E (a -1) = -3175  -1.5 + j  volts Fig. 34
 2 

4.4 Settings for a protection device with a negative-sequence current in an electrical

installation
Problem Zd = Zi = Zload
What should be the setting for the protection
so
device with a negative-sequence current
(ANSI 46) on an electrical switchboard supplying U
Passive Loads and Motors (see Fig. 35 ) when a I2 = I3 =
2 × Zload
phase is opened?
3
Solution = I ≈ 0.87 Iload
2 load
Let us start from the simplified formulae in
Iload
section 3.6 (Network with one open phase), with I d = Ii = = 0.50 Iload
ungrounded loads and hence a high zero- 2
sequence impedance.
In addition, the network impedances are c Motors case
disregarded because they are lower than the Consider as motor characteristic data the
load impedances. impedance Zmot with a rated current Zmot and a
starting current Istart such that:
Istart = k Imot
Imot = U / e Zmot
Where for a standard motor k ≈ 5.
v In normal operation or no-load operation, the
Protection device
slip is low, Zd = Zmot and Zi = Zstart = Zmot / k
so
U k
I2 = I3 = = 3 Imot
(Zd + Zi) (1+ k )
as k ≈ 5 then:
M PL
I1 = I 2 ≈ 1.44 Imot
Fig. 35 k
I d = I i = Imot × ≈ 0.83 Imot
(1+ k )
c Passive loads case v During load increase, the slip is high,
Consider as characteristic data the impedance Zd = Zi = Zstart = Zmot / k
load Zload with a rated current Iload such that:
so
U
Iload = I1 = I 2 =
U
= 3 Imot ×
k
3 Zload ( Zd + Zi) 2

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.26

 as k ≈ 5 then: Assuming a supply voltage unbalance of less
I1 = I 2 ≈ 4.33 Imot than 2% (Vimax = 0.02 V), the value of the
minimum negative-sequence current in normal
k operation is:
I d = I i = Imot × ≈ 2.5 Imot
2 v For a passive load:
c Settings for the protection device relay Iimax = 0.02 Iload
The setting for the incoming circuit-breaker must v For a motor:
take the following constraints into consideration:
Iimax = Vimax / Zimin = Vimax / Zstart = 0.02 k Imot
v Ithreshold > Iimax (maximum negative-sequence
current in normal operation) Where k ≈ 5, Iimax ≈ 0.1 Imot
v Ithreshold < Iimin (minimum negative-sequence The table below shows the threshold setting
current on faulty feeder, ie. with an open phase) limits for the line protection devices.

Protection device Individual passive Individual Electrical switchboard

setting load motor for motors + passive loads
Ithreshold greater than ... 0.02 Iload 0.1 Imotor Σ Inegative-sequence in normal operation
= 0.1 Σ Imotor + 0.02 Σ Iload
Ithreshold less than ... 0.5 Iload 0.83 Imotor 0.5 Iload for the smallest load or
0.83 Imot for the smallest motor

4.5 Measuring the symmetrical components of a voltage and current system

Voltage system
c The zero-sequence component is measured V1
using three voltage transformers (VT), the V2
primary windings connected between phase and
neutral and the secondary windings connected in
V3
series to supply a voltmeter (see Fig. 36 ).
V = 3 Vo k where k = transformation ratio.
c The positive-sequence component is measured
using two voltage transformers installed between
V1 and V2 and between V2 and V3 (see Fig. 37 ).

V1
V2 Z R A
V3

Voltage V3 V2 V1
transformer
ratio k Fig. 37

The first voltage transformer is loaded by a

resistor R. The second voltage transformer is
loaded by an inductance and by a resistance
kV 3 kV 2 kV1 such that: π
j
V Z = -a 2R = R e 3

Z comprises a resistance
R and a reactance
kV 1 + kV 2 + kV 3 = V = 3Vo k
2
Fig. 36 3
R in series.
2

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.27

 The two circuits are connected in parallel to an
ammeter which measures a current proportional
to:
(V1 - V2 ) + [-a2 (V2 - V3 )] = V1 - V2 (1+ a2 ) + a2V3
= V1 + aV2 + a 2V3 = 3Vd
c The negative-sequence component is also
measured using three current transformers, but
installed as shown in Figure 39 . Identical
reasoning to that for the previous case shows
that the voltage at the terminals of the voltmeter
is proportional to

c The negative-sequence component is (I1- I3 ) + (I3 - I2 )(-a2 ) = I1+ a2 I2 - I3 (a2 + 1)

measured in the same way as the positive-
sequence component but by inverting terminals = I1+ a 2 I 2 + a I 3 = 3 Ii
2 and 3.
(V1 - V3 ) + [-a2 (V3 - V2 )] = V1 + a2V2 - V3 (1+ a2 )
c The zero-sequence component is equal to
one-third of the neutral current flowing directly
into the ground connection (distributed neutral).
= V1 + a 2V2 + aV3 = 3Vi
Three current transformers connected in parallel
Current system can be used to measure the component at
ammeter A:
c The positive-sequence component is
measured using three current transformers (CT) I1 + I2 + I3 = Ih (see Fig. 40 ).
installed as shown in Figure 38 . A toroidal transformer surrounding all the active
Auxiliary transformer T2 supplies a current conductors can also be used to measure it by
proportional to (I3-I2) across R. the vector sum of the phase currents.
Auxiliary transformer T1 supplies a current
proportional to (I1-I3) across Z, which is equal to
-a2 R.
The voltage at the terminals of the voltmeter is I1 V1
proportional to:
I2
(I3 - I2 ) + (I1- I3 )(-a2 ) = I3 - I2 - a2 I1+ a2 I3
V2

I3 V3
2
(
= -a I1+ a I 2 + a I 3 = 3a I d
2
) 2

T1 T2
I1 V1
I1 - I 3 I3 - I2
I2 V2
Z
R
I3 V3
R/2 R 3/2
V

Fig. 39

T1 T2
I1 1
I1 - I 3 I3 - I2
I2 2
Z
R I3 3
R 3/2 R/2
A
V

Fig. 38 Fig. 40

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.28

Appendix: Zero-sequence reactance of transformers

Group Equivalent single-line diagram Value of the zero-sequence reactance

of the transformer, seen from the
Primary Secondary primary secondary
winding winding terminals 1 terminals 2

Infinite Infinite
1 2

2
1

Infinite Infinite
1 2

1 2

Fr. L.: infinite Fr. L.: infinite

1 x11 2
F. F.: F. F.: infinite
1 2 X11 = 10 to
1 2 15 times Xsc

X12 = Xsc X12 = Xsc

1 2

1 2

Infinite Infinite
1 2

1 2

x12 X12 = Xsc Infinite

1 2

1 2

Infinite Infinite
1 2

2
1

x22 Infinite X22 = 1% of Sn

1 2

2
1

F. L.: infinite F. L.: infinite

1 x11 2
F. F. : F. F.: infinite
1 2 X11 = 10 to
Note:
Fr.L.: Free flux 1 2 15 times Xsc
F.F.: Forced flux

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.29

Group Equivalent single-line Value of the zero-sequence reactance
diagram of the transformer, seen from the
Primary Secondary Tertiary primary secondary tertiary
terminals 1 terminals 2 terminals 3

x22 Infinite X22 = 1% of Xn

1 2

1 2

x22
Fr. L. : infinite Fr. L.:
1 2 X22 = 1% of Xn
x11 x22 F. F.:
X11 = 10 to F. F.:
1 2 1 2 15 times Xsc X22 = 1% of Xn

Infinite Infinite
1 2

1 2

x11 Fr. L.: infinite Infinite Infinite

2
1 F. F.:
3 X11 = 10 to
1 2 3 15 times Xsc

2
X1 +
(X2 + X02 )(X3 + X03 ) X3 +
(X1 + X01)(X2 + X02 )
x2 x02 X 2 + X 02 + X 3 + X 03 X1 + X 01 + X 2 + X 02
x01 x1

1
X2 +
(X1 + X01)(X3 + X03 )
1 2 3 x3 x03 X1 + X 01 + X 3 + X 03
3
X 2X 3
2 X1 + Infinite Infinite
X2 + X3
x2
x1

1
2 3 x3
1

2 X 2 (X 3 + X 03 ) X 2 (X1 + X 01)
X1 + Infinite X3 +
x2 X 2 + X 3 + X 03 X1 + X 2 + X 01
x01 x1

1
1 2 3 x3 x03
3

2 X1 + X2 = X12 Infinite X33 = 1% of Xn

x2
x1

1
1 2 3 x33
3

Note:
Fr.L.: Free flux
F.F.: Forced flux

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 18 / p.30

 © 2005 Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric Direction Scientifique et Technique, DTP: Axess Valence.

Service Communication Technique Transl.: Lloyd International - Tarportey - Cheshire - GB
F-38050 Grenoble cedex 9 Editor: Schneider Electric
E-mail : fr-tech-com@schneider-electric.com

10-05