Optical Detection of Partial Discharges in GIS Based on Microstructure Light Guides

The optical detection method has attracted much attention in the field of partial discharge (PD) detection due to its strong anti-interference ability. To improve the detection performance of optical PD sensors, a novel optical PD sensor based on the light guide rod (LGR) is proposed. A simulation model is constructed according to the actual dimensions of gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). The optical properties of the LGR are analysed in terms of material, front microstructure, and length. Subsequently, an optical and electrical PD detection system is set up. Four typical PD defects are designed. The detection performance of different detection methods is compared, and the characteristic parameters such as partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV), phase distribution, pulse amplitude, and quantity are analysed. The results show that the PD sensor based on LGR performs better in detecting typical PD signals of GIS and can reflect the characteristics of PD signals. These results provide a reference for the design and application of optical PD sensors for GIS.