A novel application of wavelet based SVM to transient phenomena identification of power transformers

A novel differential protection approach is introduced in the present paper. The proposed scheme is a combination of Support Vector Machine (SVM) and wavelet transform theories. Two common transients such as magnetizing inrush current and internal fault are considered. A new wavelet feature is extracted which reduces the computational cost and enhances the discrimination accuracy of SVM. Particle swarm optimization technique (PSO) has been applied to tune SVM parameters. The suitable performance of this method is demonstrated by simulation of different faults and switching conditions on a power transformer in PSCAD/EMTDC software. The method has the advantages of high accuracy and low computational burden (less than a quarter of a cycle). The other advantage is that the method is not dependent on a specific threshold. Sympathetic and recovery inrush currents also have been simulated and investigated. Results show that the proposed method could remain stable even in noisy environments.