In-situ diagnostics of HV outdoor insulators using laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy

A new method for remote and non-intrusive diagnostics and surveillance of high-voltage insulators and insulation materials is presented, in particular pertinent to outdoor insulation. The method is based on laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy. The relationship between the LIF-spectrum and different materials and surface characteristics of silicone rubber samples are studied. These characteristics include hydrophobicity, filler content and biological growth. Furthermore, real insulators that have been naturally aged have also been studied. We conclude that laser-induced fluorescence has a significant potential to become a highly useful technique for contact-free and non-intrusive monitoring of the status of insulator materials in high-voltage systems.