Detection and Localization of Partial Discharge in Switchgear using Online Partial Discharge Identification

Partial discharges refer to localized breakdowns within insulation systems, which can lead to equipment failure if not addressed. Switchgear plays a crucial role in controlling and protecting electrical systems, making the detection and localization of partial discharges essential for preventing potential equipment damage, ensuring reliability, and maintaining overall system health. Failures of switchgear caused by undetected partial discharge (PD) accidents pose significant risks in electrical systems. This study focuses on the detection and localization of PD within switchgear utilizing Online Partial Discharge Identification, which is made possible by PMDT PDetector kit devices that are integrated with Ultrasound, TEV, and UHF sensors. These failures, which are frequently caused by unreported PD activity, highlight the crucial need for real-time monitoring and analysis. The primary goal of the study is to conduct an in-depth analysis of PD events in order to provide significant insights regarding potential switchgear faults. PD events are actively monitored and evaluated using the PMDT PDetector kit devices and their corresponding sensors. This study follows IEC 60270 guidelines for PD detection, ensuring that it meets international standard. The obtained data is examined in detail to identify, classify, and seek PD spots inside the switchgear. These collective results conclusively affirm the health of the switchgear, as it exhibited no signs of partial discharge issues based on the conducted assessments, contributing to the system’s overall reliability. Thus, it is highly recommended that industries involved in high-voltage equipment, notably switchgear, integrate the use of PMDT PDetector for comprehensive online PD detection.