Application of high resolution radar to provide non-destructive test techniques for locating URD cable faults and splices

A nondestructive, high resolution radar system that precisely locates URD power cable faults and splices has been developed. High resistance faults are identified without thumping via a low energy, battery-powered snapshot unit. Only enough DC voltage to initiate and maintain one flashover at the fault is applied; the duration is limited to four milliseconds. Pinpointing the fault or splice is accomplished by detecting the radar signal above ground. When the antenna is directly over the fault or splice, the location is confirmed. The ability to receive the signal from the cable makes the pinpointing step independent of cable propagation velocity