Investigating the Influence of Enviromental Factors on Reliability of Distribution Systems

本项目旨在模拟各种环境因素对配电馈线可靠性的影响，以确定系统中故障概率较高的部分，并提供实际性能与预期性能的比较分析。 该项目的具体步骤是：1）详细研究影响配电馈线故障的所有环境因素，2）调查并寻求模型来表示这些因素对配电馈线故障的影响，3）调查方法来识别由于暴露于环境因素而具有高故障概率的馈线，4）研究将馈线的实际性能与基于所选模型的预期性能进行比较的方法，5）使用Westar Energy配电系统作为测试台来验证模型和方法，（6）根据研究结果编制模块，纳入三门课程。将研究用于配电系统精确可靠性评估的创新方法，这将推进可靠性评估领域的知识前沿。 这项研究解决了一个重要的问题，与社会有着更广泛的意义。具体而言，这项工作可能会提高配电系统的可靠性，而大多数电力中断都发生在配电系统中。大学与工业界的合作将有助于加强研究基础设施。 该项目将向参与的学生介绍新的多学科视角。

This project aims at modeling the effects of various environmental factors on reliability of distribution feeders to identify parts of the system with high probability of failures and to provide comparative analysis of actual performance with expected performance. Specific steps of the project are: 1) detailed study of all the environmental factors that influence failures on distribution feeders, 2) investigate and seek models to represent the effects of these factors on failures on distribution feeders, 3) investigate methodologies to identify feeders that have high probability of failures due to exposure to environmental factors, 4) investigate methodologies to compare actual performance of the feeders with expected performance based on selected models, 5) use Westar Energy distribution system as a test bed to validate the models and methodologies, and 6) develop modules based on the research for inclusion in three courses. Innovative methodologies for accurate reliability evaluation of distribution systems will be investigated, which will advance the frontier of knowledge in the field of reliability evaluation. This research addresses an important problem with significant broader relevance to society. Specifically, this work could lead to improved reliability of distribution systems, where most electric power interruptions arise. The collaboration between university and industry will facilitate enhancement of the research infrastructure. The project will introduce new multi-disciplinary perspectives to the participating students.