Exploration of Novel Sensors in Fault Location for Distribution LinesLi Peng1, Shao Liming2

To address the shortcomings of traditional distribution line fault location methods—such as insufficient accuracy, delayed response, and poor adaptability to complex operating conditions—this study explores the application of traveling wave location sensors in distribution line fault location to meet the high-reliability power supply demands of new distribution networks. Twelve 10kV distribution lines with complex operating conditions were selected for engineering trials, employing a deployment strategy of "dual-end full coverage on main lines + single-end supplementary points on branch lines." A high-frequency signal acquisition and processing algorithm, along with a multi-scenario distance measurement model, was developed. The results show that after implementation, the average absolute error in fault location dropped to 7.8 meters, the total handling time was reduced to 22 minutes, and the location accuracy rate exceeded 97.8% across various fault scenarios. Both operation and maintenance costs and power outage impacts were significantly reduced. The study demonstrates that traveling wave location sensors can effectively overcome traditional technical limitations, providing a feasible technical foundation for rapid and accurate fault handling in distribution networks.