Inspection of electrical wires for insulation faults and current surges using sliding temperature sensor based on optical Microfibre coil resonator

Presented is a compact and robust temperature sensor based on an optical microfibre to coil resonator packaged around a Teflon tube. The probe can efficiently slide along electrical wires to map the local temperature for locating insulation faults and reporting high current surges. A temperature responsivity of 95 pm/°C up to ~80°C was demonstrated. This sensor is potentially low cost and simple to fabricate, making it attractive for domestic and industrial applications.