arXiv subjects

Alex McEachern

Publications and source records attributed to Alex McEachern.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2024

GridSweep Simulation: Measuring Subsynchronous Impedance Spectra of Distribution Feeder

Peaks and troughs in the subsynchronous impedance spectrum of a distribution feeder may be a useful indication of oscillation risk, or more importantly lack of oscillation risk, if inverter-based resource (IBR) deployments are increased on that feeder. GridSweep is a new instrument for measuring the subsynchronous impedance spectra of distribution feeders. It combines an active probing device that modulates a 120-volt 1-kW load sinusoidally at a user-selected GPS-phase locked frequency from 1.0 to 40.0 Hz, and with a recorder that takes ultra-high-precision continuous point-on-wave (CPOW) 120-volt synchrowaveforms at 4 kHz. This paper presents a computer simulation of GridSweep's probing and measurement capability. We construct an electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation of a single-phase distribution feeder equipped with multiple inverter-based resources (IBRs). We include a model of the GridSweep probing device, then demonstrate the model's capability to measure the subsynchronous apparent impedance spectrum of the feeder. Peaks in that spectrum align with the system's dominant oscillation modes caused by IBRs.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2017

Anomaly Detection Using Optimally-Placed Micro-PMU Sensors in Distribution Grids

As the distribution grid moves toward a tightly-monitored network, it is important to automate the analysis of the enormous amount of data produced by the sensors to increase the operators situational awareness about the system. In this paper, focusing on Micro-Phasor Measurement Unit ($\mu$PMU) data, we propose a hierarchical architecture for monitoring the grid and establish a set of analytics and sensor fusion primitives for the detection of abnormal behavior in the control perimeter. Due to the key role of the $\mu$PMU devices in our architecture, a source-constrained optimal $\mu$PMU placement is also described that finds the best location of the devices with respect to our rules. The effectiveness of the proposed methods are tested through the synthetic and real $\mu$PMU data.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2016

Automated Anomaly Detection in Distribution Grids Using $\mu$PMU Measurements

The impact of Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) for providing situational awareness to transmission system operators has been widely documented. Micro-PMUs ($\mu$PMUs) are an emerging sensing technology that can provide similar benefits to Distribution System Operators (DSOs), enabling a level of visibility into the distribution grid that was previously unattainable. In order to support the deployment of these high resolution sensors, the automation of data analysis and prioritizing communication to the DSO becomes crucial. In this paper, we explore the use of $\mu$PMUs to detect anomalies on the distribution grid. Our methodology is motivated by growing concern about failures and attacks to distribution automation equipment. The effectiveness of our approach is demonstrated through both real and simulated data.

eess.SY↗