Practical methodology for modeling and simulation of a lightning protection system using metal-oxide surge arresters for distribution lines

Abstract The application of metal-oxide surge arresters to protect distribution lines from lightning is of great interest to electric utilities seeking to improve reliability and quality of the energy supplied to consumers. However, due to the high cost of purchase and installation, technically and economically viable solutions must be found to protect these systems from lightning overvoltages. Thus, this paper describes aspects of modeling and simulating the performance of a protection system using metal-oxide surge arresters, when exposed to direct lightning. A practical methodology is developed for the specification, simulation and definition of the best sizing, location and number of surge arresters for the protection of an overhead distribution line located in a rural area. Moreover, the energy absorption for selection of surge arresters is also analyzed and the performance of different configurations of the protection system against lightning is evaluated.