METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING A FAULT IN A SUPPLY LINE

摘要

A method is disclosed for detecting a discontinuity or irregularity in a supply line of an electrical power distribution network including a neutral return line and an earth return line. The method includes measuring a proper ty associated with the supply line wherein the property is different when th e network includes the neutral return line compared to when the network does not include the neutral return line. The method also includes comparing a r esult of the measuring with a reference to provide an indication of the disc ontinuity or irregularity. The property may include a complex impedance asso ciated with the neutral return line or earth return line and/or ambient elec trical noise present on the supply line. An apparatus for detecting a discon tinuity or irregularity in a supply line of an electrical power distribution network is also disclosed.