Research on Transformer Omnidirectional Partial Discharge Ultrasound Sensing Method Combining F-P Cavity and FBG

To achieve omnidirectional sensitive detection of partial discharge (PD) in transformers and to avoid missing PD signals, a fiber optic omnidirectional sensing method for PD in transformers combined with the fiber Bragg grating (FBG) and Fabry-Perot (F-P) cavity is proposed. The fiber optic omnidirectional sensor for PD as a triangular prism was developed. The hollow structure of the probe was used to insert a single-mode fiber to form an F-P cavity. In addition, the three sides of the probe were used to form a diaphragm-type FBG sensing structure. The ultrasound sensitization diaphragm was designed based on the frequency characteristics of PD in the transformer and the vibration model of the diaphragm in the liquid environment. The fiber optic sensing system for PD was built and the performance test was conducted. The results show that the resonant frequency of the FBG acoustic diaphragm is around 20 kHz and that of the F-P cavity acoustic diaphragm is 94 kHz. The sensitivity of the developed fiber optic sensor is higher than that of the piezoelectric transducer (PZT). The lower limit of PD detection is 68.72 pC for the FBG sensing part and 47.97 pC for the F-P cavity sensing part. The directional testing of the sensor and its testing within a transformer simulation model indicate that the proposed sensor achieves higher detection sensitivity of PD in all directions. The omnidirectional partial discharge ultrasound sensing method proposed in this paper is expected to reduce the missed detection rate of PD.