EPRI Insulator Leakage Current Monitor: Use case
The problem:
Power utilities often face challenges related to the contamination and degradation of insulators, which can lead to increased leakage currents and potential flashover events. These issues can compromise the reliability and safety of electrical systems. To address these concerns, utilities are researching and implementing advanced monitoring solutions to detect and mitigate these risks proactively.
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Correlation leakage to weather
RF monitoring approach:
EPRI’s Leakage Current RF Monitors were installed on various types of insulators, including long rod, composite, and glass or porcelain disc insulators. The installation process involved attaching the monitors to the grounded end of the insulators, allowing for continuous, real-time monitoring of leakage currents. The data collected was transmitted wirelessly to a base station, which aggregated and stored the information for further analysis.
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Clamp-on monitor
Lessons learnt:
The research demonstrated that continuous monitoring with RF Monitors could effectively identify periods of high contamination and increased leakage currents. This allowed utilities to schedule timely maintenance, such as washing insulators, to prevent flashover events. Additionally, the data collected over extended periods provided valuable insights into the degradation patterns of different insulator materials and coatings, helping to improve maintenance strategies and extend the lifespan of the insulators.
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Test to develop algorithms
Status:
Currently, EPRI’s Leakage Current RF Monitors are being used in various projects and research initiatives to enhance the reliability of electrical systems. The ongoing research aims to refine the algorithms and analytics used to interpret the data, making the system even more effective at predicting and preventing insulator failures. The latest projects are focused on expanding the use of these monitors to different voltage levels and environmental conditions, ensuring their applicability across a wide range of scenarios.
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Composite Insulator