In the ever-evolving landscape of power grid technology, a novel approach to high voltage measurement is making waves, promising to revolutionize the way we monitor and manage electrical networks. Researchers, led by Senyue Qiu from North China Electric Power University, have developed a innovative floating-ground capacitive voltage divider (FG-CVD) that could significantly reduce costs and improve efficiency in power grid operations.
Traditional voltage measuring equipment in power grids relies on capacitive voltage dividers to convert high voltage electrical quantities to low voltage signal quantities. However, these systems often require bulky and expensive lumped capacitors and supporting insulation structures. The FG-CVD, as detailed in a recent study published in the Chinese Journal of Electrical Engineering, offers a more streamlined solution by utilizing precisely designed parasitic capacitance as a high voltage arm capacitor.
“This design not only saves cost and volume but also addresses some of the long-standing challenges in high voltage measurement,” Qiu explained. The FG-CVD’s sensitivity to external conductor interference and transient waveform distortion, particularly with lengthy connecting leads, has been a hurdle. However, Qiu and his team have developed a comprehensive parameter design method to enhance the stability of the transfer ratio under interference conditions.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is the team’s ability to explain and mitigate transient waveform distortion. By establishing a wideband equivalent model that includes lead inductance, they have proposed a resistance compensation scheme to reduce ratio error significantly. “Our experiments have shown that the ratio error decreases from 20.33% to less than 1.3%,” Qiu noted, highlighting the practical impact of their findings.
The development of a 500:1 FG-CVD prototype with a measurement bandwidth of 2MHz demonstrates the real-world applicability of this technology. The prototype has shown high accuracy in both power frequency and lightning pulse voltage measurement, making it a promising tool for the energy sector.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As power grids become more complex and the demand for renewable energy integration grows, the need for accurate and efficient high voltage measurement becomes ever more critical. The FG-CVD technology could play a pivotal role in enhancing the reliability and efficiency of power grid operations, ultimately leading to cost savings and improved performance.
Qiu’s work, published in the Chinese Journal of Electrical Engineering, represents a significant step forward in the field of high voltage measurement. As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like the FG-CVD will be crucial in meeting the challenges of the future. This research not only addresses current limitations but also paves the way for further advancements in power grid technology, ensuring a more stable and efficient energy infrastructure for years to come.