Modelling Inductive Sensors for Arc Fault Detection in Aviation
Gabriel Barroso-de-María1, Guillermo Robles2, Juan Manuel Martínez-Tarifa2
1Airbus Defence and Space, 28906 Getafe, Spain.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 27, 2024
Summary
Detecting series arcs in aircraft high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems is crucial. This study presents a novel inductive sensor design method for reliably capturing the high-frequency pulses generated by these dangerous arcs.
Area of Science:
- Electrical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Modern aircraft increasingly utilize high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems to meet rising power demands.
- Low-pressure environments in aviation exacerbate ionization phenomena like arcing, posing significant safety risks.
- Conventional detection methods are inadequate for identifying series arcs in HVDC systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a reliable method for designing inductive sensors capable of detecting series arc faults in aircraft HVDC systems.
- To address the critical need for advanced arc detection to ensure the safety and development of electric aviation.
Main Methods:
- Proposing a design methodology for inductive sensors based on the physics of high-frequency (HF) pulse interaction.
- Conducting a comparative analysis of different sensor topologies.
- Utilizing theoretical study, finite element method (FEM) modeling, and laboratory frequency response testing.
Main Results:
- Identified key parameters influencing HF pulse detection in inductive sensors.
- Validated the sensor design methodology through laboratory tests and real-world DC series arc detection scenarios.
- Demonstrated the effectiveness of inductive sensors based on HF pulse detection for series arc faults.
Conclusions:
- The proposed sensor design methodology enables effective detection of series arcs in HVDC systems.
- Inductive sensors offer a promising solution for arc fault detection due to their sensitivity, cost, and adaptability.
- This research contributes to enhancing the safety and reliability of future electric aircraft.
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