EA Technology UltraTEV Plus
2
Operating Manual 2388L015
Page 47 of 66
8. Detecting Partial Discharge using the UltraTEV
Plus²
Due to the tri-sensor capability, the UltraTEV Plus² is able to detect Partial Discharge activity
on the surface of insulation using Ultrasonic detection, internal to insulation by measuring
TEV signals and in cables and cable accessories using the RFCT accessory.
This section covers how to use the UltraTEV Plus² to detect PD activity using the three
sensor technologies.
8.1 TEV Measurement
TEV measurements are performed using the TEV sensor embedded into the front face of
the instrument.
8.1.1 Background Noise
Electromagnetic signals from sources outside the switchgear can also produce voltages on
the outside of the switchgear. These electromagnetic sources can come from a multitude
of sources such as overhead line insulators, transformer bushings and strong radio signals.
These sources will produce equivalent signals on metalwork which is not electrically
connected to the switchgear such as metal substation doors or fencing. Measuring the
interference levels on these surface before taking readings from the switchgear will help
allow identification of PD over background noise.
If the background noise is less than 10dB then the UltraTEV Plus² pulse
counter is not incremented and will read zero