The project will be conducted over a 9-month period and will focus on the development of photonic sensors that will demonstrate the potential for faster, safer, more accurate and less expensive instrumentation for monitoring, control and protection. An initial 4.5- month phase will focus on the design and simulation of voltage and current sensors using optical fibre. The second 4.5-month phase will focus on construction of the sensors and basic testing to ensure compliance with key elements of the relevant IEC standards.
Following this project consideration will be given to subsequent field trials where the technology would be retrofitted to the secondaries of existing instrument transformers at 132 or 275 kV. By retrofitting to existing CTs/VTs in a follow-on field trial, the distributed measurement capability and resulting minimisation of communications networks, enhanced speed of operation, and improved fault location will be demonstrated with a minimum of disruption.
Benefits
The following aspects of the project outputs will be used to assess whether the project has been a success and whether the performance of the innovation is as desired:
- The project physically demonstrates that standard fibre can be used to measure electrical parameters, i.e. the sensor concept is proven in the laboratory;
- The project physically demonstrates that this technology is capable of meeting the environmental and safety criteria expected by the target industry, as defined by IEC standards.
- The project delivers clear recommendations for further demonstration project(s).
- Produce a business case including validation of expected savings/benefits while complying with ESQCR
