PFPD-MCA: A Multiconductor Power Flow

In this paper, the multiconductor extension of the previously developed three-phase power flow algorithm (named PFPD-3P) is presented. This multiconductor formulation has a general validity for both distribution and transmission networks. An iterative matrix formulation for the solution is throughout expounded. The present method allows computing the electrical quantities of all the network conductors: the active conductors and the passive ones (i. e., OHL ground wires, IC metallic screens/armours, and GIL enclosures). These electrical quantities can be evaluated both at the network busbars and also along the lines. The knowledge of these quantities can be useful to perform: safety evaluations, power quality and electromagnetic compatibility studies. The electrical substations are carefully modelled, by considering the links between the passive conductors of different busbars and the earthing resistance of the meshed earth electrode. The algorithm is implemented in Matlab environment and tested by several fictitious networks. Eventually, in order to confirm the approach accuracy, the multiconductor results are compared with the equivalent single-phase ones and the three-phase power flow commercial software DIgSILENT PowerFactory.