Radiometric partial discharge detection

Radio frequency (RF) detection of partial discharges (PD) is a long-established principle, being described in the international standard for partial discharge measurement. The growing market for mobile communication devices in recent years has led to big reductions in the cost of electronic hardware operating in the VHF and UHF bands, making advanced measurements of PD in these bands increasingly affordable. Some 20 years ago, ultra-high frequency methods for PD detection were pioneered in gas-insulated substations (GIS) and have since become widely accepted. Locating PD in GIS is essentially a one-dimensional problem. More recent research into PD location in power transformers, also using the UHF method, has had to address the more challenging problem of PD location in three-dimensions. Both the GIS and transformer applications monitor enclosed volumes, where the PD is within a metalclad system that traps the signal and provides good screening of external RF interference. At the same time, other researchers have developed RF detection and location systems for open environments, such as complete air-insulated substations. When deployed in a fixed installation or a surveying vehicle equipped with GPS, this system is capable of monitoring insulation defects as they develop, and provides a location capability using sophisticated signal processing. This paper begins with an overview of some aspects of radiometric monitoring techniques and goes on to outline some research challenges which it is hoped will attract the attention of the many researchers who are continuing to advance the areas of radiometric PD detection, measurement and location technology.