A novel method to locate PD in polymeric cable systems based on amplitude-frequency (AF) map

A new technique for partial discharge (PD) source location in cable systems is presented in this paper. Such technique, here referred to as amplitude-frequency (AF) mapping, is based on the influence of attenuation and dispersion phenomena on PD pulse time and frequency characteristics. A comparative evaluation with other two well-known location techniques, i.e., time-domain reflectometry (TDR) and arrival time analysis (ATA) is presented through working cases. The results indicate that while TDR is appropriate for short cable systems, for longer cable systems, location by AF mapping can be obtained directly from PD testing, without additional efforts. The location thus achieved is, in most cases, accurate enough to allow maintenance practices to be carried out effectively. In some cases, ATA can be necessary to refine location and resolve ambiguities.