This paper describes the concept and analysis of virtualization technology and possible virtualization scenarios, which can be used to create a new generation of Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs). The concept overview was based on solutions used in conventional IT systems. A general conception of virtualization is presented. A solution based on KVM virtualization is described. Synchronizing the time of virtual machines, as well as creating and testing virtual machines under Linux operating systems are described. Time delays of communication when sending SV messages between the IEDs using SV packages are compared. Communication and operation of virtual protections with physical IEDs devices were verified.

Software power protection tester implemented in a real-time operating system (RTOS) might replace the conventional testing setups in IEC 61850 protection systems. This paper describes an open power protection testing platform. Linux RT capabilities related to runtime environment for such a tester are examined and OS latency sources are identified and evaluated. An algorithm for a multithreaded tester operation is proposed, including Sampled Values (SV) publisher, GOOSE input/output and time synchronization. SV and GOOSE services implemented in RT Linux environment are evaluated in accordance with IEC 61850‒5 transfer time requirements. Linux PTP time synchronization service of two similar systems controlling its electrical ports is evaluated in different synchronization scenarios. The developed tester is compared to an equivalent conventional setup during the test of IED over-current function. The conducted tests show that the Linux implementation of power protection tester in the case of scheduler latency, time synchronization accuracy and transfer time all meet the requirements of IEC 61850.

This paper introduces a Fuzzy Logic Controller designed for an on-load tap changer within medium voltage distribution systems with bulk penetration of Distributed Energy Resources. As the on-load tap changer remains one of the most essential forms of voltage regulation in medium voltage distribution networks, improving its operation is a cost-effective response to the emerging voltage violations caused by intermittent generation during the early stages of the energy system transformation. Software-in-the-loop simulations were conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm compared to the conventional methods. A modified CIGRE Medium Voltage Distribution Network Benchmark in European Configuration was modelled while the controller code developed in Python 3.12 was running on a PC, both coupled in a real-time closed-loop environment. The analyses showed that the proposed algorithm managed to reduce overvoltage from 7.02% to 4.85% in the benchmark network, thus demonstrating that the algorithm is efficient and ready for on-field implementation.

The deployment of Electrically Trace Heated Pipe-in-Pipe (ETH-PiP) brings the challenges of reliable protection selection and setting. This paper presents a study of relays and protection function optimization for ETH-PiP systems. The study is based on the developed simulation model of a typical ETH-PiP system. The paper presents simulation studies of physical phenomena occurring during electrical disturbances in the ETH-PiP system and offers detailed analyses applicable to system protection, including detection of disturbances, location, and elimination.

Real time simulators of IEC 61850 compliant protection devices can be implemented without their analogue part, reducing costs and increasing versatility. Implementation of Sampled Values (SV) and GOOSE interfaces to Matlab/Simulink allows for interaction with protection relays in closed loop during power system simulation. Properly configured and synchronized Linux system with Real Time (RT) patch, can be used as a low latency run time environment for Matlab/Simulink generated model. The number of overruns during model execution using proposed SV and GOOSE interfaces with 50 µs step size is minimal. The paper discusses the implementation details and time synchronization methods of IEC 61850 real time simulator implemented in Matlab/Simulink that is built on top of run time environment shown in authors preliminary works and is the further development of them. Correct operation of the proposed solution is evaluated during the hardware-in-the-loop testing of ABB REL670 relay.

This article describes the comparison of test results of distance protection functions (ANSI 21) implemented in protective relays of various manufacturers dedicated to HV and EHV lines protection. A special emphasis has been placed on determining the operating times of distance protection functions based on quadrilateral and circular characteristics.The research was conducted using classical methods based on the use of software provided by the manufacturer of microprocessor-based tester and the use of simulation programs.