摘要:
Apparatus is disclosed for detecting a discontinuity or impedance irregularity in an active line, a neutral return line and/or an earth return path of an electrical power distribution network. The apparatus includes means for measuring a change in voltage and/or current flow associated with a deliberate switching of a known impedance and/or a naturally occurring random switching of an impedance in the electrical network wherein the change in voltage and/or current flow is due to a discontinuity or impedance irregularity in the active line, neutral line and/or earth return path. The apparatus also includes means for implementing a first algorithm for identifying the discontinuity or impedance irregularity in presence of allowable variation in voltage and/or current flow that may mimic or hide a discontinuity or impedance irregularity in the active line, neutral return line and/or earth return path including a reverse current flow through the earth return path. The apparatus further includes means for comparing a result of the measuring with a reference to provide an indication of the discontinuity or impedance irregularity. A method for detecting a discontinuity or impedance irregularity in an active line, a neutral return line and/or an earth return path of an electrical power distribution network is also disclosed.