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On-Line Partial Discharge Testing

It is always preferable to partial discharge components (such as winding wires and power electronic modules) before they are designed into a system. Testing is much less complex and a statistical view of the data can be produced with ease. However, when components are placed together as part of a system there remains a risk of partial discharge as a result of the voltage stress between components and/or manufacturing issues. As such, it is always recommended that a system level partial discharge test be carried out.

These system level partial discharge tests are challenging when dealing with power electronic systems as squarewaves impact the usefulness of traditional partial discharge measuring systems compliant with IEC 60270. The IEC 61934 technical specification describes methods that can be used to detect partial discharge under squarewave conditions and using these techniques outlined in this document, aerospaceHV can support you in testing your completed power electronic system. Our ability to deliver this testing draws on the experience we gain day to day when carrying out tests in our own laboratory facilities with squarewave voltages.

Electronic Circuit Board Damaged By Lightning

Typically, our approach to supporting a full on-line measurement is as follows:

  • Review of system topology and review of options for partial discharge sensor placement.
  • Production of a bespoke test object with a known level of partial discharge that can be installed alongside your system to act as a calibrator during testing.
  • Production of bespoke sensors as required.
  • Agreement of complete test procedures and any required risk assessment documentation.
  • Attendance at site and completion of test.

Following attendance at site and completion of the test, it may be possible to recommend a method by which a PD test can be carried out on each individual system that is produced within the factory environment.

Typically, this testing would be carried out making the use of the bespoke test object allowing you to continually calibrate the measurement system and ensure that you maximise your chance of detecting defective power electronic systems.

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