On-Line Partial Discharge Testing 27.6 kV XLPE Cable (by Kinetrics)

Partial Discharge Testing On Power Cable Systems

Partial discharge measurement is an important method of assessing the quality of the insulation of power cable systems, particularly for extruded insulation materials.

This article considers partial discharge from two points of view: the measurement of all partial discharges occurring within the cable system and the location of individual partial discharge sites.

Measurement of Partial Discharge

Perhaps the most significant factory test made on the insulation of full reels of extruded cable is the partial discharge test. This is usually done at power frequency, but can also be carried out at very low frequency and at some voltage significantly higher than normal working voltage to ground. Experience has shown that this test is a very sensitive method of detecting small imperfections in the insulation such as voids or skips in the insulation shield layer.

It would therefore seem logical to repeat tlus test on installed cables to detect any damage done during the shipping or laying or any problems created by jointing and terminating the cable. Unfortunately this is a difficult measurement
to perform in the field due to the presence of partial discharge signals.

However, in spite of the difficulty, this test has been performed in the field where some special circumstances suggest it is worth the time and expense involved. Typically this may be when damage or faulty installation is suspected or the cable route requires it to be of the highest possible reliability.
Partial Discharge Detection System

Partial Discharge Detection System - It records partial discharge measurements for computer analysis using the optional XDP software for a PC. The XDP II is very accurate to detect partial discharge on cable joints,switchgear, elbows, cable terminations and more.

Once the necessary steps are taken to reduce the noise level below the partial discharge level to be measured, the test can provide a great deal of useful diagnostic data. By observing the magnitude and phase of the partial discharge signals and how they vary with increasing and then decreasing test voltage, results will disclose information on the type and position of the defects and their probable effect on cable life. Noise reduction methods necessary for field tests of partial discharge usually include the use of an independent test voltage source such as a motor-generator, power line and high voltage filters, shielding and sometimes the use of bridge detection circuits.

Partial discharges can also be detected at system voltage with special sensors connected to the splice or termination, using the fkequency spectrum of the discharges.

In summary, if the cable system can be tested in the field to show that its partial discharge level is comparable with that obtained in the factory tests on the cable and accessories, it is the most convincing evidence that the cable system is in excellent condition.

SOURCE: Electrical Power Cable Engineering