Power Line Communication Application for Enhanced Partial Discharge Monitoring: From Theory to Application

Partial discharge (PD) activity is an important indicator of insulation health in high-voltage power apparatuses. Ensuring optimal functioning and timely equipment maintenance is crucial for operational efficiency and safety. This article introduces an innovative approach to equipment monitoring by utilizing power line communication (PLC) technology for detecting PD data. The novelty of this approach lies in the PLC receiver’s dual capability to detect PD occurrences while simultaneously demodulating the PLC signal. This research analyzes the proposed low-cost, online PD monitoring system against traditional PD measurement techniques. Signals detectable by PLC were shown to propagate in PLC, allowing PLC to recognize PD from defect-simulated electrodes. To validate this, a simulated electrical substation circuit was constructed to facilitate the measurement of PD through the PLC system. The findings of this study indicate a good outcome for improving equipment monitoring procedures through the integration of PLC technology, providing a cost-effective alternative for continuous health assessment of electrical power equipment.