Partial Discharge

A Partial Discharge Tester (PDT) is an essential tool used in the electrical power industry to measure partial discharges in high-voltage equipment. Partial discharges are tiny electrical sparks that can occur within the insulation of high-voltage equipment. They can lead to the degradation of the insulation and eventually cause equipment failure. By using a PDT, engineers can detect and monitor partial discharges, helping to prevent equipment failure and ensure the reliability of the power grid.

A typical PDT consists of a high-voltage source, a coupling capacitor, a measuring device, and a computerized data acquisition system. The high-voltage source applies a high voltage to the equipment under test, and the coupling capacitor allows for the measurement of partial discharges. The measuring device detects and measures the magnitude and frequency of the partial discharges, which can be used to assess the health of the equipment. The data acquisition system collects and analyzes the data, providing engineers with detailed information on the condition of the equipment.

PDTs are used in a wide range of applications, including testing of power transformers, cables, switchgear, and other high-voltage equipment. They are especially useful for identifying potential problems in aging equipment or equipment that has undergone repairs or modifications.