An application of discrete wavelet transform and support vector machines algorithm for classification of fault types on underground cable

This paper proposes a new technique using discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and support vector machines (SVM) to classify the fault types in underground distribution systems. The DWT is used to detect the high frequency components from fault signals. Positive sequence current signals are used in fault detection decision algorithm. The variations of first scale high frequency component that detects fault are used as an input for the SVM. Various cases studies based on Thailand electricity underground distribution systems have been investigated so that the algorithm can be implemented. SVM is also compared with the coefficients DWT comparison technique. The proposed method gives satisfactory accuracy, and will be very useful in the development of a modern protection scheme for electrical power transmission and distribution systems. © 2012 IEEE.