Electromagnetic Time Reversal Localization Method for Distribution Cables Based on Reflection Coefficient Modification

Accurate and rapid localization of cable faults is crucial for enhancing the power supply reliability of distribution cable systems. The traditional electromagnetic time reversal (EMTR) method was utilized to accurately localize cable faults. However, due to the nonlinear characteristics of fault development, unknown and varying fault resistances lead to significant deviations in the EMTR localization results. To address this issue, this article proposes an improved EMTR method based on reflection coefficient modification (EMTR-RCM). The mechanism by which the fault resistance affects the localization accuracy of EMTR is analyzed in detail. The reflection coefficients during the EMTR backward-time process are modified, and a new transfer function is designed. Experimental validation and simulation analysis demonstrate that the proposed method is robust against cable operating conditions and fault types.