What Is DC Offset?

1-Page Summary
DC Offset: When a fault is applied, it shifts the
system’s sine wave asymmetrically… it creates
an “offset.” This offset is necessary to maintain
the basic laws of electricity (Rules 1 and 2
below) at the initial moment when the current
makes a sudden change (e.g. during a fault).

Rule 1: “In an inductive circuit, the current lags

the voltage by 90°.”1
Rule 2: “If a fault occurs when the voltage is
zero, the current must be at a positive or negative maximum value.”1

Test Set: Instantaneous (it cheats) Actual Current: Takes time to shift

Other Points To Note:

• The size and duration of DC Offset depends on: (1) the ratio of reactance to resistance
(X/R) during a fault, (2) the voltage magnitude during the fault, (3) the ability of the
generator to react
• Faults rarely occur at exactly zero degrees, but actually occur at a specific angle, often
referred to as the Fault Incidence Angle (FIA) or the Fault Inception Mode/Angle
• The time it takes the DC Offset to stabilize is referred to as either the Time Constant L/R
or the System Time Constant

1 – From Protective Relaying for Power Generation Systems by Donald Reimart

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