Fault Current Detection and Dangerous Voltages in DC Urban Rail Traction Systems

In this paper, the electrical safety of dc urban traction systems is analyzed, with particular focus on fault current detection and on dangerous voltages which could arise in case of fault. For the discussion, the tram network of Turin, Italy, is used as a case study. First, the structure of the dc traction power supply is described, analyzing in detail the different components; then, the safety of the system is analyzed, examining possible types of fault. In particular, ground faults inside the substation and ground faults along the line are analyzed in detail. Fault currents and dangerous voltages are calculated, thanks to a simplified steady-state circuital model of the traction system. Finally, the consequent risks for the people are examined and some conclusions and possible solutions are presented.