Eigenfunction expansion method for partial discharge localization in a bounded domain

Partial Discharge (PD) is a complex phenomenon that happens in electrically stressed dielectric used in Medium and High Voltage (MV and HV) components. On the market, several devices are available for PD detection but none of them is able to localize PDs. In this paper, we present a new non-invasive diagnostic method for both PD detection and localization inside a complex bounded domain such as MV Insulated Switchgears (ISs). The approach is based on eigenfunction expansion method and uses few Electro-Magnetic (EM) measurements picked up by antennas located inside the IS. Solving an Inverse Problem (IP), the EM fields distribution can be reconstructed in space and time, localizing the PD source and identifying the defective component.