scope:

This guide provides analytical techniques to assist in the placement of switching and overcurrent protection devices on distribution circuits for reliability purposes.

Purpose

This guide provides means and methodologies for proper placement of switches and protective devices to achieve the desired performance characteristics and reliability for distribution circuits, including feeder and branch line equipment, with operating voltages up to and including 38 kV. Drivers for device placement, such as reliability and operational considerations are identified. Various types of switching and overcurrent equipment are covered such as: manual switches, automated switches, reclosers, sectionalizers, and fuses. Impacts on reliability and device placement are addressed for factors such as fault rate, interruption duration, exposure length (e.g., km or miles), customers affected and distribution automation and automated restoration.