Forward-Backward Sweep Power Flow Calculation for Distribution Networks

The Forward-Backward Sweep (FBS) method is a power flow calculation technique specifically designed for distribution networks, particularly suitable for radial or weakly meshed distribution system structures. This algorithm solves power flow distribution through alternating calculations of forward voltage propagation and backward power flow.

In the FBS method, the computation process consists of two main iterative steps: First, the backward sweep step calculates branch power losses and power distribution from the network's terminal nodes toward the root node. Second, the forward sweep step computes node voltages from the root node toward the terminal nodes. These two steps alternate iteratively until convergence criteria are met.

This method serves as a fundamental algorithm for distribution network power flow calculations due to its computational simplicity and ease of implementation. It eliminates the need for Jacobian matrix calculations required in traditional Newton-Raphson methods, making it particularly suitable for radial distribution network characteristics. However, for strongly meshed network systems, integration with other methods may be necessary for improved accuracy.