Application
Partial Discharge Monitoring
Non-contact acoustic detection of partial discharge events with unmatched sensitivity and complete immunity to electromagnetic interference.
Arc lighter demonstration: acoustic PD detection at 1 meter with BROADSONIC
Extraordinary Sensitivity
In controlled testing using an arc lighter as a partial discharge source, BROADSONIC achieved exceptional signal-to-noise ratio at 1 meter standoff distance. This level of sensitivity means discharge events are not merely detectable but captured with extraordinary clarity, providing rich spectral data for diagnostic analysis.
Full Spectrum Capture
PD acoustic signatures typically concentrate below 1 MHz. BROADSONIC captures the full spectrum with significant margin up to 5 MHz, ensuring no diagnostic information is missed. This complete spectral coverage enables more accurate classification of discharge types and better assessment of insulation degradation severity.
Electromagnetic Immunity
Conventional electrical PD sensors are susceptible to electromagnetic interference from the very equipment they monitor. BROADSONIC's sensor head contains no electrical elements. It operates entirely on optical principles, making it inherently immune to EMI. The acoustic signal path is completely independent of the electromagnetic environment, eliminating false triggers from switching transients, RF noise, and other electrical artifacts.
Non-Contact Standoff Monitoring
BROADSONIC detects partial discharge acoustically through air, with no physical contact to the monitored equipment. This eliminates the need for direct sensor attachment to high-voltage assets, simplifying deployment and reducing risk to personnel. The sensor's omnidirectional response (greater than ±60 degrees) allows monitoring of multiple discharge sources from a single sensor position.
Applications
- Transformer and switchgear condition monitoring
- High-voltage cable termination inspection
- Generator and motor insulation assessment
- Substation predictive maintenance programs
- GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) PD monitoring
See It In Action
Arc Lighter PD Demo
Watch BROADSONIC detect discharge events from an arc lighter at 1 meter standoff distance, demonstrating the sensor's exceptional acoustic PD detection capability.
Supporting Research
Air-Coupled Ultrasound Using Broadband Shock Waves from Piezoelectric Spark Igniters
The academic basis for the arc lighter PD detection demonstration, characterizing broadband shock wave generation and detection in air.
Download PDF →Non-Contact Acoustic Characterization of Magnetic Components
Related application exploring non-contact acoustic monitoring of electrical infrastructure components.
Download PDF →FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Electrical PD sensors are susceptible to electromagnetic interference from the high-voltage equipment they monitor, causing false triggers from switching transients and RF noise. BROADSONIC detects PD acoustically through air using an entirely optical sensor with no electrical elements, providing inherent EMI immunity and eliminating false positives.
BROADSONIC is suited for transformers, switchgear, high-voltage cable terminations, generators, motors, substations, and gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). Any asset where partial discharge produces airborne acoustic emissions can be monitored.
No. BROADSONIC operates entirely through air with no physical contact to monitored equipment. This eliminates the need for direct sensor attachment to high-voltage assets, simplifying deployment and reducing risk to personnel.
In controlled testing using an arc lighter as a PD source, BROADSONIC achieved exceptional signal-to-noise ratio at 1 meter standoff distance. The omnidirectional response (greater than ±60°) allows monitoring of multiple discharge sources from a single sensor position.
Evaluate BROADSONIC for PD Monitoring
Discuss your partial discharge monitoring requirements and learn how optical acoustic sensing provides cleaner, more reliable PD data.