Optical Voltage Transducer for Embedded Medium Voltage Equipment: Design and Parameters Optimization

Abstract

An Optical Voltage Sensor prototype has been developed suitable for operating as embedded sensor in capacitive dividers for monitoring Medium Voltage in distribution networks. It is based on a retracing scheme, which consists of Lithium Tantalate crystals used as voltage transducers, and on telecom standard single mode fibre components. In this work a optimization of the optical layout via a numerical and an experimental investigation is reported for guaranteeing the OVS sensor survival under fast over-voltages. Tests carried out under different configurations of the electric circuit did not evidenced critical electric field gradients within the transduction path which could damage or deteriorate over time the performance of the OVS sensor.