Project Overview
A 220kV substation in Shangrao, Jiangxi, China, has implemented a GIS partial discharge online monitoring system supplied by Zhuhai Huawang Technology.
The project uses smart UHF sensors and contact ultrasonic sensors to collect different types of partial discharge signals from the GIS equipment during operation.
By combining electromagnetic and acoustic detection methods, the monitoring system provides additional operating data for the condition assessment of the GIS equipment.
Monitoring 220kV GIS During Operation
GIS equipment has a compact and enclosed structure, which makes direct inspection of internal insulation components difficult while the equipment is in service.
Partial discharge signals can provide useful information when monitoring the insulation condition of high-voltage equipment.
For this 220kV GIS application, sensors were installed at selected monitoring points according to the equipment structure and site requirements.
The smart UHF sensors collect high-frequency electromagnetic signals associated with partial discharge, while the contact ultrasonic sensors detect acoustic emission signals transmitted through the GIS enclosure.
Combining UHF and Contact Ultrasonic Detection
UHF and ultrasonic detection provide different ways of observing partial discharge activity.
The UHF sensor is designed to capture electromagnetic signals generated by PD inside GIS equipment.
The contact ultrasonic sensor works on a different principle. It is mounted directly on the GIS enclosure and receives AE ultrasonic signals transmitted through the equipment structure.
Using the two methods together provides maintenance personnel with more than one type of signal when reviewing the condition of a monitoring point.
If a monitoring point shows an unusual change, the recorded information can be used together with operating conditions and further field testing for additional assessment.
Contact Ultrasonic Sensor for GIS
The contact ultrasonic sensor used in this project is designed for AE ultrasonic signal monitoring on electrical equipment.
Its direct-contact installation allows ultrasonic signals to be collected through the GIS enclosure while reducing the influence of some ambient noise associated with air-coupled measurement.
The sensor supports LoRa wireless communication and integrates a low-power communication module, high-precision amplification circuitry and a lithium battery.
The wireless configuration can reduce additional cabling requirements when monitoring points are added to existing GIS equipment.
Supporting Long-Term Equipment Monitoring
Online monitoring provides a different approach from periodic inspection.
Instead of collecting PD signals only during scheduled testing, the sensors remain installed on the equipment and continuously provide monitoring data during normal operation.
For 220kV GIS equipment, accumulated monitoring data can be used as a reference when reviewing changes in equipment condition.
When an abnormal signal or noticeable change is observed, maintenance personnel can combine historical data, equipment operating conditions and field diagnostic testing to determine whether further inspection is required.
Online monitoring therefore serves as an additional tool for daily condition assessment rather than replacing detailed diagnostic testing.
Project Application
This 220kV GIS project in Shangrao, Jiangxi, applies smart UHF sensors and contact ultrasonic sensors to partial discharge online monitoring.
The two sensing methods collect different types of PD-related signals and provide complementary information for the ongoing observation of GIS equipment.
Zhuhai Huawang Technology develops and manufactures partial discharge detection and monitoring products for GIS, transformers, switchgear, power cables and other electrical equipment. Its product range includes UHF sensors, ultrasonic sensors, HFCT sensors, TEV sensors, handheld PD detectors and online monitoring systems.
Project Details
Project: 220kV GIS Partial Discharge Monitoring Project
Location: Shangrao, Jiangxi, China
Equipment: 220kV GIS
Sensors: Smart UHF Sensors + Contact Ultrasonic Sensors
Monitoring: Electromagnetic PD Signals + AE Ultrasonic Signals
Application: GIS Partial Discharge Online Monitoring