Noveloptical current sensor for metering and protection in high power applications

摘要

A clamp-on optical current sensor prototype for metering and protection applications in high power systems was developed and characterized. The system is based on the Faraday effect in a low birefringence, high Verdet constant, 8cm long SF57 Schott glass prism. It was incorporated in a nylon casing suitable for clamp-on applications in the power line. The sensor operation was tested at 630nm, 830nm, and 1550nm to access its applicability in remote interrogation via fiber links. Optimal operation at 830nm is reported with a linear response up to 65.28kA, with 0.1 or 0.2 accuracy class considering a nominal currents of 1.2 and 0.3 kA (root mean square), respectively. Twelve calibrations procedures performed over six days showed an estimated maximum error of 11m A. Preliminary measurements were made from 40 to 400Hz. The sensor was exposed to transient signals less than 10 mu s that demonstrated its use in protection applications.