High voltage rotating machines whether in power generation, heavy industry, or oil & gas are critical assets, and their failure can mean major operational losses. One of the most common root causes? Insulation breakdown due to undetected partial discharge (PD). Traditional detection methods like the blackout test are limited by safety concerns, poor visibility, and subjective interpretation.
This paper presents a comparative study that evaluates the effectiveness of blackout testing versus solar-blind UV (SBUV) camera inspection, a modern, precise, and field-proven alternative. The findings offer valuable guidance for maintenance teams seeking to reduce unexpected outages and extend machine life through better diagnostics.
From Detection to Action: Practical Insights and Tools for Modern PD Maintenance
- A clear explanation of the three main types of PD in motors and generators
- The damaging effects of ozone and acid formation on stator insulation
- Side-by-side testing of blackout and SBUV methods using IEEE1799-2022 protocols, including sensitivity benchmarks and field setup
- Demonstrated benefits of SBUV cameras: real-time localization, safer daytime operation, and reduced reliance on controlled test conditions
- How digital imaging enables better documentation, trending, and proactive maintenance planning
- Recommendations for integrating UV corona inspections into your maintenance strategy—whether for routine checks or as part of commissioning and QA procedures
Read the full article
Advanced Corona Partial Discharge Detection and Localization for High Voltage Rotating Machines
