Performance Comparison of Various Partial Discharge Calibrators

Partial Discharge (PD) is a critical factor in assessing aging and potential insulation failures in high-voltage equipment. Calibrating PD testing equipment is vital for ensuring accurate measurements. This study compares the performance of three PD calibrators (Calibrator 1, Calibrator 2, and Calibrator 3) under varying operational conditions to identify the most effective and precise device. Using the IEC 60270 standard and a needle-plate setup with a 2 cm gap, the study evaluates these calibrators alongside PD measurements obtained with an RC detector at voltages of 7 kV, 8 kV, and 9 kV. The data collected include PD waveforms and phase patterns. Results indicate that Calibrator 2 provides superior accuracy and precision, with an average charge deviation of 0.2983 nC from the test values. In contrast, Calibrator 1 and Calibrator 3 show average deviations of 2.4966 nC and 7.0490 nC, respectively. Calibrator 2's performance closely aligns with calculated charge values across various voltages, demonstrating its reliability. This research significantly enhances PD calibration practices, potentially extending equipment lifespan and reducing the likelihood of failures due to undetected insulation issues. The findings support the power industry's need for improved calibration standards. Future research should focus on developing PD calibrators with enhanced capabilities and consistency across different environmental conditions.