Modified Swarm Firefly Algorithm for Optimal Settings of Directional Overcurrent Relays

This paper presents a new approach known as Modified Swarm Firefly Algorithm (MSFA) technique in solving Directional Overcurrent Relays (DOCRs) coordination problem by minimizing the operating time of primary relays at near-end fault. DOCRs coordination requires the optimal values of Time Multiplier Setting (TMS) whereas the pickup current (Ip) values are based on load and data fault. The proposed technique is tested on IEEE 14-bus system and is compared with Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The simulation results revealed that the MSFA technique outperformed PSO in terms of minimizing fitness values.