MOV Lifetime Estimation via Impulse Discharge Current Analysis

The patent applies preliminary action by performing regular impulse voltage tests on the MOV before actual failure occurs. The test management unit schedules and executes periodic testing, applying impulse voltages and measuring discharge currents to detect degradation trends early, enabling preventive replacement before the MOV fails completely.

The patent replaces simple visual inspection or basic short circuit detection with an electrical measurement system. By substituting mechanical/simple detection methods with electrical impulse testing and current measurement, the system achieves precise detection of MOV degradation through discharge current characteristics without requiring complex visual inspection procedures.

The patent uses the discharge current during impulse voltage testing as an intermediary parameter to assess MOV health status. Instead of directly measuring surge currents during actual events, the system applies controlled impulse voltages and uses the resulting discharge currents as a mediator to evaluate MOV degradation, avoiding the measurement errors associated with direct surge current measurement.

The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct surge current measurement to discharge current measurement under controlled impulse voltage conditions. By transforming the measurement approach and using discharge current characteristics under standardized test conditions, the system eliminates the need for high-precision CTs required for direct surge current measurement while maintaining reliable failure rate estimation.

The test management unit implements preliminary action by scheduling and executing regular impulse voltage tests before the MOV actually fails. By periodically assessing MOV health status through discharge current measurements and comparing against reference values, the system identifies degradation trends early and alerts users to replace the MOV proactively, preventing unexpected failures and equipment damage.

The system establishes feedback by continuously monitoring discharge current measurements and comparing them with reference current values. When the discharge current deviates from the reference (indicating MOV degradation), the system generates alerts and notifications, providing feedback that triggers proactive maintenance actions. This feedback loop ensures timely replacement before complete failure occurs.