The study on partial discharge using light detection method

The purpose of partial discharge (PD) detection is to detect developing insulation defects in order to avoid an inservice failure. Traditional PD detection methods include electrical measurements, acoustical measurements, etc. However these methods have the disadvantage that the measurements can be influenced by interference and as well it is hard to ascertain the discharge location. The light detection method which is discussed in this paper can overcome the above disadvantages to some extent. Typical PD signals and associated light emissions are studied. The PD light emission is not only related to the discharge quantity, but also to the discharge energy. Discharge counts do not affect the magnitude of the emitted light, but are related to the number of light pulses.