Mansell, Gregory (2023) Locating Low Voltage Underground Power Cable Faults Using Infrared Technology. [USQ Project]
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Abstract
There are many ways to locate low voltage underground cable faults, however most of these require access to the cable to be tested. Networks need to have staff that can respond to faults in a timely manner in order to restore supply to homes and businesses quickly. Thermography uses a camera to detect different levels of infrared radiation in order to construct an image of the heat detected on a surface being surveyed. This process has been used primarily on objects that give off heat directly, such as overhead lines and open switchboards.
This project has proposed a method to combine thermography with underground cable fault location techniques. The proposed method differs from the traditional use of a thermal camera since the target being surveyed is generally 600 to 800 millimetres below the ground. It is theorised that the heat generated from the fault current will heat the ground and thermally conduct to the surface, where the infrared radiation will be given off and detected by the camera.
To determine the viability of using this new technique, surveys were performed on low voltage distributors that had recently failed. These thermal images were then compared to the traditional fault locations to determine how accurate they were in locating the low voltage faults.
There can be enough heat generated in certain circumstances to detect a thermal hot spot on the ground. This method, like many traditional methods, does have its limitations. Rain, wind and amount of fault current all play vital roles in the ability of this technology to perform accurately.
The surveys performed showed that the technology can be used to locate underground faults in this manner. It has also highlighted the need for further research and experimentation in these fields. Having a safer method of locating faults will always be of benefit to all stakeholders.
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| Item Type: | USQ Project |
|---|---|
| Item Status: | Live Archive |
| Faculty/School / Institute/Centre: | Current – Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences - School of Engineering (1 Jan 2022 -) |
| Supervisors: | Ahfock, Tony |
| Qualification: | Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Power) |
| Date Deposited: | 30 Sep 2025 01:38 |
| Last Modified: | 30 Sep 2025 01:38 |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | underground power cable; infrared technology |
| URI: | https://sear.unisq.edu.au/id/eprint/52969 |
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