Online Partial Discharge Testing of HV Cable: Single Test Vs Feeder Mapping

As electricity distribution networks age, it is desirable for network operators to obtain high quality condition data so they can make informed decisions around the lifespan of their assets.

One of the most fundamental tools used to assess the condition of underground high voltage (HV) cables is online partial discharge (PD) testing. However, what is the industry-standard best practice for conducting an online test?

Backed with real-life case studies, this article compares the following methods of testing to determine a winner:

• Testing a single HV cable in isolation
• Systematic mapping of an entire feeder

Topics covered:

• Partial discharge in cables: Testing and locating
• Testing in practice: The ideal approach and why
• Case study: Online PD testing across a 22KV feeder

Read the article here.

PD monitoring devices used:

• UltraTEV Plus²: Uses numerous sensors to detect and locate PD in HV assets
• CableData Collector™: Used to identify PD in live MV and HV cables