Partial Discharge Detection with UV Cameras
In today’s power-driven world, rising energy demand, aging infrastructure, and system overloading pose significant challenges for power grids, rotating machines like motors and generators, manufacturers of medium and high voltage equipment, and electrified railways. Among the most critical and often overlooked threats is corona partial discharge (Corona PD), which contributes to the gradual breakdown of electrical components and can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and unexpected outages.
What is Corona Partial Discharge?
Corona partial discharge occurs when a strong electric field ionizes the air surrounding a component, creating a localized discharge that emits ultraviolet (UV) light. Although invisible to the human eye, these UV emissions can be captured using OFIL’s solar blind UV technology. Detecting Corona PD early allows operators to identify developing issues before they escalate, supporting more reliable and proactive maintenance strategies.
Corona PD indicating the presence of malfunctions
Corona PD as a Warning Signal:
- Corona Partial Discharge acts as a critical warning signal, indicating the presence of malfunctions in equipment.
- It often appears in areas where electrical stress is concentrated—such as at sharp edges, loose or damaged components—and can result from design issues, poor installation, contamination, or manufacturing defects.
- Detection of Corona PD can alert maintenance teams to these points before they escalate into major faults.
Damages to components caused by Corona PD
Corona PD as a Damaging Force:
Beyond signaling potential issues, Corona PD is inherently destructive. It produces ozone, nitric acid and oxalic acids which damage electrical components, leading to premature equipment failures.
Therefore, detecting and mitigating Corona PD is essential to maintain the integrity and longevity of electrical systems, ensuring their safe and efficient operation.
Why is Seeing Corona Partial Discharge Important?
Corona partial discharge is generally detected in the initial stages of an issue, prior to a critical failure. Accurate and timely detection allows for proactive identification and rectification of potential equipment failures, thus preventing costly, disruptive power outages and parts replacement.
Partial Discharge Detection with UV technology
Early Detection
helps prevent costly downtime or parts replacement
Accurate Pinpointing
allows for exact PD location and thus for more efficient maintenance
Predictive Maintenance
enables improved operation and better component health
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