Partial Discharge Fault Location via Phase Angle Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for locating incipient faults that generate partial discharges in electric power transmission systems are not accurate enough, especially in long and complex networks, and require expensive sensor setups or cumbersome procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method that detects the phase of a 'spike' in the partial discharge pattern relative to the AC supply voltage, where the phase approaches zero at the fault location, allowing for precise localization by adjusting the detection positions based on phase changes, using a portable apparatus with contactless sensors and a synchronism signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional sensor setups and procedures are used for locating partial discharge faults, then detection capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and utilizes only the phase information of the partial discharge signal relative to the AC supply voltage, eliminating the need for complex multi-sensor setups. By focusing on the phase angle measurement alone, the system achieves accurate fault location with minimal sensor requirements, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical sensor arrays with an electrical phase measurement approach. Instead of using multiple physical sensors positioned at specific locations, the system substitutes this with a single sensor that measures the phase angle of the partial discharge signal relative to the AC supply, achieving the same fault location capability with significantly reduced hardware complexity
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are deployed along the power line for accurate fault detection, then measurement precision improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome setup procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential phase angle information from the partial discharge signal, discarding the need for multiple sensors and complex spatial arrangements. This extraction of the critical parameter (phase angle) enables accurate fault detection while dramatically simplifying the operational procedure to a single sensor deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing AC supply voltage as a reference signal, eliminating the need for external synchronization equipment or complex calibration procedures. The partial discharge signal automatically provides its own timing reference by correlating with the AC cycle, making the detection procedure self-sufficient and operationally simple
3Reliability
If extensive sensor networks are used to cover long power transmission lines, then detection coverage is improved, but loss of time increases due to complex data processing and analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fault location information directly from the phase angle measurement, eliminating the need for complex data processing algorithms associated with multiple sensors. The phase angle itself directly indicates fault position, providing immediate results without extensive computational analysis, thus reducing time loss while maintaining reliable detection coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex computational systems with a direct electrical phase measurement approach. The phase angle of the partial discharge signal relative to the AC supply voltage directly provides fault location information without requiring sophisticated data processing, algorithms, or coordination between multiple sensors, significantly reducing the time required for fault location
Data Source
AI summary
A method of locating incipient faults that generate partial discharges in an AC power distribution system includes detecting at least one spike in a PD pattern generated by such system; getting the voltage wave of the AC power in the system; detecting a phase of such spike with respect to the voltage of the AC power; and locating an incipient fault where such phase is below a predetermined threshold. An apparatus includes at least one sensor of electrical pulses, means for getting a synchronism signal with a power supply of the power distribution system, and modules adapted to carry out the method.