Power System Short Circuit Current Studies

Short-circuit studies are done to determine the magnitude of the prospective currents flowing throughout the power system at various time intervals after a fault occurs. The magnitude of the currents flowing through the power system after a fault varies with time until they reach a steady-state condition.

This behavior is due to system characteristics and dynamics. During this time, the protective system is called on to detect, interrupt, and isolate these faults. The duty imposed on this equipment is dependent upon the magnitude of the current, which is dependent on the time from fault inception. This is done for various types of faults (three phase, phase-to-phase, double-phase-to-ground, and phase-to-ground) at different locations throughout the system. The information is used to select fuses, breakers, and switchgear ratings in addition to setting protective relays.

This course presents the subject of short-circuit studies in a very structured fashion. First, a simple equivalent circuit is developed for a generic power system, system impedances are recalculated to common base and fault are calculated at various locations throughout the system. A detailed explanation is offered for calculation of three phase faults. Explained techniques can be also verified by any commercial power system software package.

Once you complete your course review, you need to take a multiple-choice quiz consisting of fifty (50) questions to earn 5 PDH credits

Learning Objectives

This course is intended to provide you with the following specific knowledge and skills:

Impedance diagram
Extent of the model
Models of branch elements
Extent and requirements of short circuit current studies
System modelling and computational techniques
Fault analysis according to industry standards
Factors affecting accuracy of short-circuit studies
Computer solutions
Example

Download the Course to review and begin earning your PDH credits.

We provide technical courses for PDH credits that meet Board requirements for Professional Engineers, Geologists and Land Surveyors. This courses is guaranteed to be accepted in AK, AL, AR, FL, GA, IA, IL, ID, IN, KS, KY, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WI, WV, and WY. Before purchasing this course, please confirm that your state Board is listed above.