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1 INTRODUCTION TO OVERCURRENT COORDINATION Protective devices, usually relays or fuses, are installed at supply points in a power system to accurately detect and quantify a disruptive disturbance in the system. The variable most frequently used for detection is the supply line current, and in most situations this is detected through the use of current transformers. Occasionally direct acting devices are used e.g. fuses for voltages up to about 33,000 volts or magnetic elements in low voltage moulded-case circuit breakers (MCCBs). For special purposes other variables such as voltage, active power, impedance, admittance and frequency are used. Most onshore oil production, petrochemical, industrial and offshore platforms use radial power generation and distribution power systems. These systems will use several voltage levels depending upon the total power demand and the kW ratings of the largest individual consumers. The transition from one voltage to the next higher one is influenced mainly by the highest normal load current that can be handled by conventional circuit breakers, busbar systems within switchgear and power cables. The highest current is typically about 4000 amperes. The maximum fault currents that can be experienced within a particular power system must also be carefully considered when