Phase comparison technique is the most widely used technique for all practical directional, distance, differential and carrier relays. In a phase comparator, the operation of the relay takes place when the phase relation between two inputs S1 and S2 varies within certain specified limits. Both inputs must exist for an output to occur; ideally, operation is independent of their amplitudes, [...]
The application of a particular relay is governed by its characteristics and other factors such as accuracy, operating time, reliability, burden, method of setting adjustment etc. The function of a protective relay is to sense any abnormal condition in the system and send a signal to the breaker which in turn isolates the faulty section of the feeder from the [...]
Amplitude comparator compares the amplitudes of two (or more) input quantities. The phase angle between the quantities under comparison (inputs) is not recognized or noticed by the amplitude comparator. If the two input signals are S1 and S2 (say S1 the operating and S2 restraining), the amplitude comparator gives positive output only if – S2/S1 < K. The function is [...]
Distance relays can be either single phase or polyphase using multi-input comparators. Such multi-input comparators may be instantaneous or integrating type and compare either phase or amplitude or both. The characteristics of conventional two-input comparators are in the forms of straight lines, circles or sectors of circle on complex plane. Multi-input comparators may have elliptical, conical or quadrilateral characteristics on [...]