Novel Partial Discharge Location Algorithm for Next Generation Power Module using Small Loop Sensors

Partial discharge (PD) is one of key issues in high-voltage power module. Identifying a PD location in a power module provides information on its adequate insulation design. In this paper, an attempt is made to identify PD location in a full mold power module by measuring electromagnetic wave (EMW) detected by multiple loop sensors. A novel technique for identification of PD source is proposed by utilizing the polarity reversal of the first rising part of detected EMW signals. As a result, it is found that the method utilizing the polarity reversal of EM waveform allows PD location with a highest accuracy with uncertainty ranging 1 to 4 mm.