Magnetoelectric Sensor Operating in d₁₅ Thickness-Shear Mode for High-Frequency Current Detection.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Accurate high-frequency current detection is crucial for power system monitoring, including very fast transient currents, lightning currents, and partial discharge pulse currents.
• Existing sensors often lack the rapid response required for these demanding applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and fabricate a novel high-frequency magnetoelectric current sensor.
• To evaluate the sensor's performance in high-frequency current detection up to 3 MHz.
• To compare its efficacy against existing tunnel magnetoresistance sensors.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a magnetoelectric current sensor using PZT piezoelectric ceramic and Metglas amorphous alloy.
• Design for operation in the d₁₅ thickness-shear mode with a resonant frequency near 1.029 MHz.
• Comparative experimental analysis with a tunnel magnetoresistance sensor for high-frequency current detection.

Main Results:

• The fabricated magnetoelectric sensor operates effectively in the d₁₅ thickness-shear mode.
• Experimental results demonstrate the sensor's capability for high-frequency current detection up to 3 MHz.
• The magnetoelectric sensor exhibits performance comparable or superior to tunnel magnetoresistance sensors in this frequency range.

Conclusions:

• The proposed d₁₅ thickness-shear mode magnetoelectric current sensor is a promising technology for high-frequency current detection.
• This sensor holds significant potential for applications in smart grids, enhancing power system monitoring and safety.
• Further development could lead to improved solutions for transient current analysis in advanced power infrastructure.