The principles of a new line surge arrester's transient current measurement system

Abstract

Power systems are exposed to different types of electromagnetic transients, which involve a large spectrum of signals whose duration can range from several nanoseconds to several milliseconds, and whose peak values can also cover a wide range of values. Therefore, measuring electromagnetic transients in power systems is a challenging task. Fast front transients caused by lightning events are especially dangerous, and improved knowledge about them is essential for better protection design. The development of measuring systems for such phenomenon is important. This paper is dedicated to the development of a measuring system for lightning and line surge arrester currents. Modern electronic tools and equipment, as well as cutting-edge communication and information technologies, constitute the foundation of the proposed system. This includes the most recent models of acquisition units and GPS devices that are now available on the market, as well as communication networks including 4 G, 5 G, and WiFi. Software and hardware components of the system are described. The paper presents laboratory tests conceived to prove that the system operates correctly and provides accurate results. The measurements are compared to EMTP and MATLAB simulations. Both are in agreement.