Fault section detection system for 275-kV XLPE-insulated cables with optical sensing technique

An on-line fault section detection system, which continuously monitors a 275-kV cross-linked polyethylene-insulated underground transmission line and instantaneously determines the section of fault at a ground fault, was developed. In the case of a ground fault, the system detects the fault current which flows from the power source to the point of ground fault and determines the fault section from the magnitude and phase information of the fault current. Optical magnetic field sensors based on the Faraday effect are used for detection of fault current, and optical fibers are used for signal transmission eliminating effects of electromagnetic induction due to a large ground fault current (5000-50000 A) or switching surges on signal transmission lines. The distance between an optical magnetic field sensor and the fault section detector/indicator can be as long as 10 km without the use of any repeaters