Analysis of Array UHF Sensor for Partial Discharge Detection in Power Transformer

Abstract

Partial discharges (PD) are small electrical discharges that occur within insulation materials and can lead to equipment failure and safety hazards. The Ultra High Frequency (UHF) sensor consists of a broadband antenna and a UHF receiver, which are designed to detect and analyse the electromagnetic emissions from partial discharges. This paper presents the design and characterization of the 4th order Hilbert fractal UHF sensor for PD detection in power transformer. The sensor is designed to operate in the frequency range of 300 MHz to 3 GHz and is optimized for high gain and directivity. The performance of the sensor is evaluated using simulation and measurement techniques. Simulation results show that the sensor has directivity of 7.9 dBi and reflection coefficient below -10 dB with VSWR ≤ 5.