Reluctance change apparatus and method of detecting loss of cross- sectional area of magnetic metallic strength members used in conductors such as aluminum conductor steel reinforced ('ACSR') conductors

摘要

A method and apparatus for detecting a loss in cross-sectional area of metallic reinforcing members having magnetic properties of a conductor indicating corrosion effects on the conductor. The method and apparatus comprises a tug component to provide the motive force to move a data collection component and a detector component along a length of conductor. The tug component further includes a rechargeable battery, a motor energizable by the rechargeable battery, a guide wheel and tensioner assembly. Linked to the tug is a data collection component. In turn, a detector is linked to the data collection unit. The tug, data collection unit and detector all ride along the same conductor by a series of guide wheels and tensioners. The detector further includes a magnetic source spaced apart from an electronic coil winding. In use, a conductor is interpositioned between the magnetic source and electronic coil winding. The magnetic source is preferably energized to produce a rotating magnetic field which is directed at the conductor. The amount of magnetic field passing through the conductor corresponds to the cross- sectional area of the steel reinforcing strands of a conductor. The magnetic field recognized by the coil induces a varying voltage depending upon the cross- sectional area of the steel strands of the conductor through which the rotating magnetic field passes. The electronic coil may also be linked to a recording system such that the change in magnetic field induces a change in voltage in the coil which can be recorded on a strip chart, graph, CPU or other suitable data collection unit. The data collection component therefore may also include a relay system comprising a transmitter and receiver sufficient to send data streams and information to a ground surface when the unit is used above ground to analyze and test overhead conductors.