On the optimal strategies of condition monitoring and maintenance allocation in distribution systems

In power systems, there has been a gradual shift from time based maintenance strategies to condition based maintenance (CBM) and reliability centered maintenance (RCM). The aim of these strategies has been a more focused operation, with a higher efficiency in the use of resources and better impact of maintenance efforts. This paper first discusses the role of RCM and CBM in distribution systems. Difference is made with regard to the component level and system level approaches. Examples are given of typical cases of component condition monitoring and system level maintenance allocation optimization. In the latter part of the paper, a method is presented for optimal condition monitoring and maintenance strategies for both component and system levels. The method is based on the statistical analysis of component condition data and probabilistic optimization of the overall cost function