One of four PNRA scholarships available in 2008/09:
PhD research project at Cardiff University - overhead line measurement system
Fault location and protection systems on power networks have seen significant improvement in recent decades. However, exact location of faults and their categorisation, especially if intermittent, is still not possible, which can cause valuable loss of revenue and time for utilities to restore normal system operation following such fault conditions. Therefore, it is proposed to work on a novel idea for a system which combines measurement of voltage and current and communications on high voltage conductors. Previous work in this area utilised radio or mobile telecommunications technologies with a limited scope for deployment on the networks.
This proposal aims to pursue investigations into the development of a new system for Integrated Monitoring, Protection and Control (i-MPC) of power networks.
To achieve the above aim, it is proposed to undertake a number of investigations during the programme of research; these are as follows:
- Design, construct and test suitable voltage and current transducers to be installed on high voltage conductors,
- Develop data conversion and acquisition systems to interact with transducers and communications system,
- Design, construct and test communications system including high frequency coupling systems,
- Design, construct and test an independent power supply that will meet the power requirement of the unit,
- Develop software to analyse and transfer data for remote processing.
- Construct and test a complete prototype system,
- Adapt developed system to selected network configurations
I WANT TO:
Power Networks Research Academy
Learn about PNRA PhD scholarships at