Distribution System Analysis
CYMDIST
CYMDIST is the distribution system analysis base package of the CYME software. It bundles all the modeling and
analysis tools required to perform the various types of simulations involved in electric distribution system planning.
The calculation engines support balanced or unbalanced distribution models that are built with any combination of
phases and operated in radial, looped or meshed configurations.
The following analyses are included in the CYMDIST package:
• Unbalanced load flow
• Load allocation and estimation
• Fault analysis
o Short-circuit/fault flow
o Fault locator
o Series and simultaneous fault
o Voltage sag
• Load balancing
• Optimal capacitor placement and sizing
• Motor starting
• Batch analysis
Optional modules can be added to CYMDIST to extend the functionality to perform more in-depth and specialized
analyses. New modules are developed regularly to meet the evolving needs of the distribution engineers.
Accurate modeling and representation
The modeling capabilities of the network editor of the CYME software include the detailed representation of all portions
of a distribution network, including the MV primary system, the LV secondary system (radial or meshed) as well as the
sub transmission system.
Simulations with CYMDIST
The CYMDIST base package is a comprehensive tool providing distribution engineers with key applications to perform
system planning studies, simulations and analysis on a daily basis.
At the core of the software are extensive libraries, detailed models and algorithms in line with industry best practices
and standards; and based on innovative engineering technologies. Its fully customizable graphical user interface
provides the representation, results and reports at the level of detail needed.
Load flow
The steady-state performance of the power system under various operating conditions is simulated using the load flow
analysis of CYMDIST. It is the basic analysis tool for the planning, design and operation of any electrical power system.
• Unbalanced and balanced voltage drop – It features an iterative technique that is specifically designed and
optimized for radial or weakly meshed systems; and includes a full three-phase unbalanced algorithm that
computes phase voltages.
• Unbalanced Newton-Raphson load flow – Takes into account for underground secondary networks (urban
grid systems or spot networks), low voltage installations, and sub-transmission systems tied to the
distribution systems.
The comprehensive analysis results include voltage, current, power factor, losses, abnormal conditions and
unbalanced factors. The results can be viewed for the whole system or for individual locations.
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Load allocation and estimation
This analysis assists in developing an accurate load model by allocating feeder demands across the network based on
transformer connected capacity, consumption/billing data or existing calculated load data.
Fault analysis
Comprised of a number of applications, the fault analysis functions in CYMDIST support in the assessment of issues
related to faults in the distribution system.
It includes three short-circuit calculation methods: Conventional, ANSI, IEC 60909© and IEC 61363©, All methods are
based on multiphase models to solve complex balanced/unbalanced, single/two/three phase systems and
radial/highly meshed power systems.
The fault analysis applications of CYMDIST also include:
• Series fault analysis – Evaluates open circuit or asymmetrical line impedance conditions on the
distribution system.
• Simultaneous fault analysis – Studies the impact of having faults at different locations simultaneously on
the network.
• Fault locator – Evaluates possible locations of a fault on the network.
• Voltage sag analysis – Studies the impact of a sudden reduction of voltage magnitude caused by network
faults, or other disturbances such as motor starting or overloads.
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Load balancing
The load balancing analysis is used to determine which loads or lateral taps can be reconnected to different phases so
as to minimize kW losses or balance the current, the load, or the voltage. It reports a series of individual changes to the
network and the objectives improvement with each change.
Optimal capacitor placement and sizing
This analysis helps in determining the ideal location and size of shunt capacitors banks to reduce kW losses or to
improve the system voltage while maintaining a desired power factor. The user can provide guidance regarding the size,
number and appropriate locations of the capacitor banks, and approve whether the recommended banks should be
installed or not.
Alternately, the analysis can provide an exhaustive list of all possible capacitor placement locations with associated
impacts on voltages and kW losses.
Motor starting
The motor starting functionality of CYMDIST determines the impact of induction or synchronous motors starting on the
system by evaluating voltage flicker. An estimation tool also provides the largest single- or three-phase motor size for
all locations based on the maximum voltage dip allowed.
Batch analysis
The batch analysis function allows users to run multiple user-defined scenarios on a selection of studies, self-
contained files and multiple networks available in the database. Each scenario is configurable and can include several
analysis simulations; each of these using configurable parameters.
