FBG array sensor use for distributed internal thermal monitoring in low voltage random wound coils

This study examines the performance potential of FBG array thermal sensors for distributed monitoring of internal temperature in random wound electric coils. The sensor packaging and installation procedures are reported and its thermal monitoring performance assessed in laboratory tests on a prototype coil test system. The reported results indicate that a coil embedded FBG array thermal sensor can provide enhanced internal temperature monitoring and deliver information on thermal stress distribution within the coil structure.