Application of Image Sensors to Detect and Locate Electrical Discharges: A Review

Today, there are many attempts to introduce the Internet of Things (IoT) in high-voltage systems, where partial discharges are a focus of concern since they degrade the insulation. The idea is to detect such discharges at a very early stage so that corrective actions can be taken before major damage is produced. Electronic image sensors are traditionally based on charge-coupled devices (CCDs) and, next, on complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) devices. This paper performs a review and analysis of state-of-the-art image sensors for detecting, locating, and quantifying partial discharges in insulation systems and, in particular, corona discharges since it is an area with an important potential for expansion due to the important consequences of discharges and the complexity of their detection. The paper also discusses the recent progress, as well as the research needs and the challenges to be faced, in applying image sensors in this area. Although many of the cited research works focused on high-voltage applications, partial discharges can also occur in medium- and low-voltage applications. Thus, the potential applications that could potentially benefit from the introduction of image sensors to detect electrical discharges include power substations, buried power cables, overhead power lines, and automotive applications, among others.