Fault location based on variable mode decomposition and kurtosis calibration in distribution networks

•Feature extraction: Aiming at the problems existing in the fault feature extraction methods, it decomposed the fault signal into several IMF components using the VMD algorithm with adaptive characteristics. Then the IMF components with transient fault characteristics are accurately selected to achieve fault feature extraction.•Wave-head calibration: The discrete kurtosis value is used to detect the arrival time of the traveling wave head. The discrete kurtosis value is calculated for the IMF component with the highest frequency. The time corresponding to the maximum kurtosis value is the traveling wave head moment, and the wave-head calibration is realized.•Wave velocity selection: Given the problem of low fault location accuracy due to different wave speeds of mixed lines, it is proposed to convert the length of cable lines to overhead lines and used unified wave velocity to reduce location errors.