Implementing predictive distribution maintenance using a universal controller

Traditionally, on-line condition monitoring, a subset of condition based maintenance (CBM) or just in time (JIT) maintenance, was applied only to transmission substation equipment. Recently, the evolution of technologies such as: sensors, intelligent electronic devices (IED) and wireless communication, has created the possibility for implementing predictive maintenance in distribution as well. Standardization of different major distribution equipment (MDE) controllers is the first step in leveraging their potential implying interoperability, interchangeability, development and implementation of smart distribution applications (SDA) including predictive maintenance. This paper describes the advantages of a standardized universal controller, based on a modular concept, on distribution maintenance, namely on implementing the more efficient and less costly JIT maintenance.