Detection of Downed Conductors on Utility Distribution Systems

The purpose of this tutorial is to inform and educate engineers and utility leaders concerning the current state-of-the-art of research in downed conductor detection. The results of many years of investigation are documented and presented including attempts by utilities, manufacturers, and university researchers to describe fault behavior and discover new detection approaches. Additionally, non-electrical means and improved operating methods for mitigating the problem of downed conductors are discussed.