Optimization of spacers placement in metal oxide surge arresters due to the thermal stability increment using genetic algorithm

in this paper the optimal placement of spacers in surge arrester column is presented in order to achieve temperature reduction and surge arrester thermal stability against power losses due to the overvoltage in power system. The simulation is done by using genetic algorithm in MATLAB software that it is linked by numerical analysis، i. e.، Finite Element Method (FEM). First، electro thermal analysis is performed according to the IEC60099-4 standard on selected population in certain interval and، then the required data is applied to the genetic algorithm for the optimal placement of spacers. Simulation results show that the placement of spacers has great influence on surge arrester temperature variations. Finally، the optimal model of surge arrester is simulated in COMSOL software and the results of this model are compared with conventional model results.