3-Axis Virtual Gaussmeter for Measurement and Advanced Characterization of the Magnetic Fields from Overhead Power Lines

In its first part, the paper describes a 3-axis virtual gaussmeter for measuring and characterizing low level magnetic fields in the frequency range from 10 Hz to 2 kHz, mainly generated by overhead power lines and underground power cables. It consists of a 3-axis detachable probe, a data acquisition unit and LabVIEW software running on a portable computer, which features a graphical user interface with multiple functionality and advanced data visualization. In addition to RMS value, waveform and frequency-spectra measurements, the MAG-3D gaussmeter allows for magnetic field monitoring including Max and Min Hold functions, as well as automatically plotting lateral and longitudinal profiles of the resultant magnetic field (total magnetic flux density) according to the standard procedures used in human exposure studies. In the second part of the paper, lateral profiles measured for a 220-kV double circuit overhead power line are compared to similar results obtained by analytical calculation with a previously developed software tool, PowerMAG. Overall, a very good agreement between results can be observed.