Learnings

Outcomes

The project has successfully created a step-by-step workflow process using both acoustic and FPI technologies which brings about improvements in finding the location of LV underground faults.

Positive engagement from operational teams was achieved as they were included in developing the fault-finding workflow process, using the two new types of technology, via hands-on experience on a test network where different types of underground LV faults could
be created. The time spent with the different types of fault-finding technologies in a safe and controlled environment, allowed an understanding of the equipment and the best way it could be used.

Through the rigorous trialling within the test network and the subsequent field trials, both the acoustic and FPI methods of LV underground fault finding have been very promising. The FPI technology has been successful in narrowing down the search area; if there are several network circuit spurs the FPI kit has the potential to identify the single circuit with the fault. With the correct network circuit spur identified then the acoustic kit, which is based upon electromagnetic technology, can be used to pin-point the location of the fault. However, the FPIs do require further development to improve upon the concept, this may be explored via a further NIA project.

Through field trials of the acoustic fault location detection equipment it has been possible to confirm that it is a suitable method for LV underground cable fault location and it should be adopted as business as usual.

Lessons Learnt

Spending quality time initially developing a step-by-step work flow process to investigate LV faults via both the acoustic and FPI technologies with the help of the Operational Teams in a workshop environment has had positive results. The early involvement of the Operational Teams and incorporating their suggestions, has made a significant difference generating and then maintaining momentum for the onward field trial element.

Maintaining a high level of engagement with the Operational Teams when developing the step-by-step workflow process has meant continued feedback from fault investigations on the actual network. This has allowed us to ensure the process for using acoustic technology to locate underground LV faults is suitable for a range of physical terrains and network configurations. The other benefit in this continued field interaction has been the ability to widen the types of fault that the equipment can be used to detect.

As the operational staff are field based, the fault-finding work flows and means by which to record comments have been made available on smartphones. Having the capability to capture data from the field trials has been crucial and allowed us to report back to all involved
in the project, at all levels. This data will also support the final assessment of acoustic LV fault finding equipment used for the project.