Partial discharge detection and localization along medium voltage cables

In the last years different partial discharge (PD) measuring techniques have been developed because PD diagnostic is the most widely tool to evaluate the insulation condition of a power cable. Recently non-conventional methods and sensors have been used in order to reach improved results in PD measurements. The purpose of this work is to perform measurements that allow to study the variation of pulses when they travel along a MV cable and to locate the pulse source through the time arrival difference of the pulses obtained from two sensors installed separately.

Effect of Acoustic Wave Reflections on Space Charge Measurements with PEA Method

The Pulsed Electro-Acoustic (PEA) method is the most used technique for space charge detection in solid dielectrics. The methodology is largely employed in the field of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission and is based on the detection of acoustic waves generated by charges vibration. One of the most common problems arising during the detection is the presence of multiple reflections taking place due to the presence of means discontinuity in the different PEA cell components. This reflection phenomenon, if not well taken into account, could cause incorrect interpretation of the PEA output signal. It is easy to understand that a simulation model is a basic tool to understand the w…

Design and experimental characterization of a low-cost, real-time, wireless AC monitoring system based on ATmega 328P-PU microcontroller

This paper describes the development and experimental characterization of a real-time, low-cost, wireless AC monitoring system based on ATmega 328P-PU microcontroller. The proposed system is composed by a main brain for the acquisition and the processing of the data measured by smart meters. From the experimental tests discussed in this work it is demonstrated that the proposed system can monitor, with adequate accuracy, the working cycles of electrical loads in order to evaluate its energy consumption.

Partial Discharge on-line measures in cable's EPR insulation

In this paper, an experimental study, carried out on an operating MV cable, is presented. The aim is to identify, locate and characterize defects in the cable's EPR (ethylene-propylene copolymer rubber) insulation. Direct partial discharge measurements have been compared to those obtained by high frequency electromagnetic field measures. The latter have been carried out using a sensor which does not require any galvanic connection with the system under test and that performs an intrinsic localization of the defect. Moreover, an analysis of an MV cable junction has been carried out using the same tools.

Finite difference time domain simulation of earth electrodes soil ionisation under lightning surge condition

The non linear effects of soil ionisation on the behaviour of earth electrodes are investigated by a finite difference time domain numerical scheme. A time variable soil resistivity is used in order to simulate the soil breakdown; step by step the resistivity value is controlled by the local instantaneous value of the electric field compared with the electrical strength, fixed for the soil. No a priori hypothesis about the geometrical shape of the ionised zone around the electrodes has to be enforced. Simulation results related to complex earth electrodes of limited extension are reported. The model has been validated by comparing the computed results with data available in technical litera…

Sulla sincronizzazione delle misure wireless di scariche parziali con il segnale di tensione a 50 Hz

L’articolo descrive i vari aspetti dei sistemi di misura wireless delle scariche parziali (PD). In particolare, sul problema della sincronizzazione dell’angolo di fase della tensione per il rilevamento e la classificazione delle PD.

PCB-Based Planar Inductive Loops for Partial Discharges Detection in Power Cables

Partial discharge (PD) diagnosis tests, including detecting, locating, and identifying, are used to trace defects or faults and assess the degree of aging in order to monitor the insulation condition of medium- and high-voltage power cables. In this context, an experimental evaluation of three different printed circuit board (PCB)-based inductive sensor topologies, with spiral, non-spiral, and meander shapes, is performed. The aim is to assess their capabilities for PD detection along a transmission power cable. First, simulation and experimental characterization are carried out to determine the equivalent electrical circuit and the quality factor of the three sensors. PD activity was studi…

Contract for the support of household appliances control and monitoring application interworking specification

Deformation of bubbles in silicon gel insulation under an alternating electric field

The behavior of silicone gel under electrical stress plays a significant role in the reliability and durability of high voltage electronic power devices due to its widespread use for the insulation of IGBT modules and other components. The charges accumulation at the bubble boundaries leads to significant displacements due to the establishment of Coulombic forces and the high deformability of colloidal system. The main purpose of this work is to validate a numerical approach useful to investigate, for a given silicone gel, the non-linear relation between the applied HVDC stress and the electric field over an air bubble within the insulation bulk. The analysis has been carried out by means o…

Comparison between Different Dynamic Reconfigurations of Electrical Connections for partially shaded PV Modules

This paper presents an economical investigation on the benefits related to the employment of reconfiguration systems for photovoltaic plants. More in detail, different structures of reconfigurators are proposed and, in order to evaluate the economical convenience on their installation, the Net Present Value is used as a validation element. Significant results are carried out from the proposed analysis.

A Low-cost, Real-time Monitoring System for PV Plants based on ATmega 328P-PU Microcontroller

This paper presents a real-time monitoring system for PV power plants based on a microcontroller Atmega328P-PU. The proposed system, whose performances can be relatively close to those achieved with commercial monitoring systems, is simple, low-cost and open source technology-based. In addition, a user interface, capable to communicate through a wireless network by using a standard communication protocol IEEE 802.15.1, is here presented. From the experimental tests described and discussed in this paper it is demonstrated that the proposed monitoring system provides, with adequate accuracy, all the information about the operating status of the PV plant, even during fault conditions.

Different scenarios of electric mobility: Current situation and possible future developments of fuel cell vehicles in Italy

The diffusion of electric vehicles in Italy has started but some complications weight its spread. At present, hybrid technology is the most followed by users, due particularly to socioeconomic factors such as cost of investment and range anxiety. After a deep discussion of the Italian scenario, the aim of the paper is to recognize whether fuel cell technology may be an enabling solution to overcome pollution problems and respect for the environment. The opportunity to use fuel cells to store electric energy is quite fascinating&mdash

Does supply chain quality integration guarantee ambidexterity? Contingency and configuration perspectives on their relationships

While researchers have thoroughly investigated the impact of supply chain quality integration (SCQI) on competitive performance, they have paid less attention to its possible effects on a firm’s ca...

Tecniche di riconfigurazione di sistemi fotovoltaici parzialmente oscurati per la massimizzazione della produzione di energia elettrica

The effect of the axial heat transfer on space charge accumulation phenomena in HVDC cables

To date, it has been widespread accepted that the presence of space charge within the dielectric of high voltage direct current (HVDC) cables is one of the most relevant issues that limits the growing diffusion of this technology and its use at higher voltages. One of the reasons that leads to the establishment of space charge within the insulation of cables is the temperature dependence of its conductivity. Many researchers have demonstrated that high temperature drop over the insulation layer can lead to the reversal of the electric field profile. In certain conditions, this can over-stress the insulation during polarity reversal (PR) and transient over voltages (TOV) events accelerating …

Electric Vehicles and Psychology, Part 2

This paper presents the main psychological attitudes influencing the transition from conventional ICEV to BEV, and it is the continuance of Electric vehicles and psychology, part 1, [1]. This part faces the range anxiety problem, the risk of explosion of batteries, the autonomous silver vehicles and the experience of driving electric vehicles. If the reader is looking for simple answers, the author does not recommend the subsequent reading, since few paradoxes will be solved.

Proof of Concept of an Irradiance Estimation System for Reconfigurable Photovoltaic Arrays

In order to reduce the mismatch effect caused by non-uniform shadows in PV arrays, reconfigurable interconnections approaches have been recently proposed in the literature. These systems usually require the knowledge of the solar radiation affecting every solar module. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effectiveness of three irradiance estimation approaches in order to define which can be well suited for reconfigurable PV arrays. It is presented a real-time solar irradiance estimation device (IrradEst), implementing the three different estimation methods. The proposed system is based on mathematical models of PV modules enabling to estimate irradiation values by sensing a combination …

Partial Discharge Detection Using a Spherical Electromagnetic Sensor

The presence of a partial discharge phenomenon in an electrical apparatus is a warning signal that could determine the failure of the insulation system, terminating the service of the apparatus and/or the network. In this paper, an innovative partial discharge (PD) measurement instrument based on an antenna sensor is presented and analyzed. Being non-intrusive is one of the most relevant features of the sensor. The frequency response of the antenna sensor and the features to recognize different PD sources and automatically synchronize them with the supply voltage are described and discussed in details. The results show the performance of the instrument can make a fast and correct diagnosis …

Fabrication and Characterization of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Among the next-generation solar cells, a predominant role is played by Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC) based on ruthenium complexes as sensitizers. They take advantage of a photoelectrochemical system to transform solar radiation into electric energy. In fact, DSSCs represent a cost-effective alternative to traditional silicon-based photovoltaic devices and they do not require expensive and sophisticated apparatus for their fabrication. In this work, we have produced and tested ruthenium DSSCs. In particular, we have measured the main parameters of these cells, such as the electrical and power performances and the efficiency levels, at different irradiance levels and at different incident…

Building Partial Discharge Signal Wireless Probes

This chapter focuses on the evaluation of the performances of different antenna sensors suitable for Partial Discharge (PD) measurements. Monopole, triangular and spherical antennas were simulated by means of the surface method of moments. The transmitting system is modeled by a power electronic device with a fault current between two metal plates. The shape of the simulated, transmitted and received signals, has been compared to verify the sensor that provides the best fidelity among the three. The auto-correlation function and the Pearson correlation index are adopted here for the comparison. A discussion on the dynamic characteristic of the different antenna probes and their use in diffe…

Modello per la simulazione di scariche parziali con approccio probabilistico

Un nuovo approccio per l’identificazione di segnali di scariche parziali multi sorgente attraverso decomposizione wavelet multirisoluzione

D2SI – Device for the Diagnosis of Insulation Systems

Economic benefits of the use of a PV plants reconfiguration systems

This paper shows the economic convenience of the application of a reconfiguration system for photovoltaic plants, considering the incentives system in different Countries. The reconfiguration is an alternative to the Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking, DMPPT, technique used to overcome the mismatch problem in Photovoltaic, PV, plants. The reconfiguration techniques employ a microprocessor-based system that modifies the layout of the PV plant by physically changing the connections among modules. After having presented the working principle of the PV reconfiguration system allowing the improvement of the efficiency of the same plant and the relevant installation, the main strength and w…

On PD mechanisms at high temperature in voids included in an epoxy resin

In this paper the effects of temperature on partial discharge (PD) activity taking place inside a spherical void in epoxy resin system are studied. Indeed, some experimental tests previously performed on specimens, having different void shapes, under multi-stress condition of temperature and voltage, have shown very different PD amplitude distributions at temperatures higher than ambient. However, this phenomenon cannot be explained only by taking into account the different thermobaric conditions of the enclosed gas. In consequence of the general physical inaccessibility of such voids, a study is here performed using a numerical model based on an evolutionary optimization algorithm. This is…

Local DoS applications with micro wind generation systems

In this paper a wind electrical power generation system for Distributed on Site (DoS) applications is proposed. This system was developed and conceived in order to guarantee simple installation, use and service, obtaining a product that can be easily industrialized and put into the market with limited costs. The field of application of such an electrical generation system is addressed towards domestic or at the most toward condominium applications concerning moreover the opportunity of working in addition to combined photovoltaic and solar-thermal systems to enhance the renewable energy generation at house level (DoS). The proposed system has its hot spot in the blades shape, in the wind fl…

CARATTERIZZAZIONE ELETTROMAGNETICA DEL COMPORTAMENTO DINAMICO DI ELETTRODI INTERRATI IN PRESENZA DI IONIZZAZIONE DEL TERRENO

Experimental investigation on different rainfall energy harvesting structures

In this paper proposes an experimental comparison between different rainfall harvesting devices and the study of the corresponding electrical rectifying circuit. More in detail, three harvesting structures are considered: the cantilever, the bridge and the floating circle. For each of the proposed structure, different waveforms have been acquired and discussed. The processed data have been compared in order to suggest the best choice for the rectifying circuit, from the simplest one to the most endorsed in the technical literature.

A New Approach to Partial Discharge Detection Under DC Voltage: Application to Different Materials

Usability of a new Direct Current Periodic waveform for partial discharge qualification in HVDC systems is exemplified by tests performed on different materials.

Space charge behavior of different insulating materials employed in AC and DC cable systems

In this work, the space charge accumulation in three different XLPE based material has been carried out by using the PEA (Pulsed Electro-Acoustic) method. The specimens provided by a cables industry have been subjected to the same DC stress during polarization time at environment temperature. Afterwards, the high voltage generator has been turned off and the amount residual charge has been evaluated. The space charge profiles during polarization and depolarization have been carried out and compared. Finally, the distribution of electric field within the samples has been reported. In particular, the maximum distortion of electric field has been calculated by taking into account the distribut…

Modelling, simulation and characterization of Li-Ion battery cell

The decarbonizing process of the transportation system and the spread of unplanned renewables energy source, such as photovoltaic and wind energies, brought the constant need of ever more efficient energy storage technologies. Among these technologies, batteries, particularly the li-ion chemistry, are widely used in automotive and energy storage applications. For an optimized management of the cell it is advisable to have models that can accurately describe cell behaviour. In this paper a battery model for performance simulation in automotive application is identified. The main shapes of battery cells with their own advantages and disadvantages are shown, and a roundup of the best available…

Caratterizzazione di dielettrici solidi nanostrutturati mediante invecchiamento combinato in presenza di scariche parziali e temperatura

HARVESTING DALLE PRECIPITAZIONI

Optimization of photovoltaic energy production through an efficient switching matrix

This work presents a preliminary study on the implementation of a new system for power output maximization of photovoltaic generators under non-homogeneous conditions. The study evaluates the performance of an efficient switching matrix and the relevant automatic reconfiguration control algorithms. The switching matrix is installed between the PV generator and the inverter, allowing a large number of possible module configurations. PV generator, switching matrix and the intelligent controller have been simulated in Simulink. The proposed reconfiguration system improved the energy extracted by the PV generator under non-uniform solar irradiation conditions. Short calculation times of the pro…

Time Evolution of Partial Discharges in a Dielectric Subjected to the DC Periodic Voltage

Partial discharge (PD) detection can be considered one of the most useful tools for assessing the insulation conditions of the power apparatus in high-voltage systems. Under AC conditions, this analysis is widely employed in online and offline tests, such as type tests or commissioning, and can be carried out by applying the phase-resolved PD (PRPD) method, since the patterns can give information about the defect classification. Under DC voltages, the classic pattern recognition method cannot be performed, and the measurements show complexities related to the nature of the phenomena. For this reason, to date, a standard for PD measurements under DC does not exist. In previous papers, a new …

The Industrial Applicability of PEA Space Charge Measurements, for Performance Optimization of HVDC Power Cables

Cable manufacturing industries are constantly trying to improve the electrical performance of power cables. During the years, it was found that one of the most relevant degradation factors influencing the cable lifetime is the presence of space charge in the insulation layer. To detect the accumulated charge, the pulsed electro-acoustic (PEA) method is the most used technique. Despite the wide use of the PEA cell, several issues are still present. In particular, the PEA output signal is strongly disturbed by the acoustic waves reflections within the PEA cell. This causes the distortion of the output signal and therefore the misinterpretation of the charge profiles. This, in turn, may result…

Finite-Difference Time-Domain Simulation of Tower and Grounding Subjected to Lightning

In this paper the behavior of a tower and its grounding system, subjected to a lightning, is faced. Finite difference time domain (FDTD) method has been chosen in order to study the non-linear time domain behavior of the system. The electromagnetic problem has been described by using two type of first order time derivative equations: Maxwell's equations and Telegraph equations. Aim of this work is to evaluate the possibility of a flashover between tower and power line, by considering different cases of study.

Survey on power increase of power by employment of PV reconfigurator

This paper shows the performance of a PV system under shadow projection on PV panels. The reconfiguration techniques, employing a microprocessor-based system, modifies the layout of the PV plant by physically changing the connections among modules, in order to recover the loss of power due to the shadows. Different cases have been considered to evaluate the increase of power.

Partial Discharges in HVDC Cables - The Effect of the Temperature Gradient During Load Transients

The paper investigates the role of the space charge accumulation phenomena in the inception of Partial Discharges (PD) in a defect within the bulk of the dielectrics of a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) cable. It is widespread accepted that the number of PD occurring in an HVDC cable during its lifetime is largely less than that under AC voltage stress. This is essentially due to higher values of the voltage between the conductor and the screen needed to trigger PD under a steady DC voltage than the same value under AC stress. Nevertheless, due to the dependency of the electrical conductivity of the insulation on the electric field and temperature, PD in HVDC cables is strongly influence…

A new approach to calibrate the thermal conditions in space charge measurements on HVDC mini-cables

The PEA method is currently widespread used for space charge measurements in mini-cables in order to qualify the behavior of semicon-dielectric-semicon compound under electric and thermal stress. The main goal of this research is to quantitatively evaluate the relationship between the thermal boundary conditions applied to cables or mini-cables and the maximum local electric field due to the accumulated space charge. Hitherto, several research groups have obtained thermal gradients over the dielectric's radius heating the conductor by Joule effect due to an induced current. In this paper, a numerical approach is offered to calibrate the heat exchange boundary conditions to apply to a sample…

Performance of the Shape of Partial Discharge Signal Wireless Probes

This paper focuses on the evaluation of the performances of three different antenna sensors suitable of Partial Discharge (PD) measurements. Monopole, triangular and spherical antennas were simulated by means of the surface moment method. The transmitting system is modeled by a power electronic device with a fault current between two metal plate. The shape of the simulated transmitted and received signals have been compared to verify the sensor the provides the best fidelity among the three. The auto-correlation function and the Pearson correlation index are adopted here for the comparison. A discussion on the dynamic characteristic of the different antenna probes and their use in different…

The Effect of the Harmonic Content Generated by AC/DC Modular Multilevel Converters on HVDC Cable Systems

With the increasing penetration of renewable and decentralized energy sources into the power grid, an extended use of DC voltages is expected on both distribution and transmission levels. Generation of DC voltages by means of voltage source converters is associated with a wide spectrum of harmonic distortions at converter terminals, both on the ac and on the dc sides. This can lead to partial discharges in power cables, which deteriorate insulation material thus weakening its performance and reducing cable life-time. In the previously published paper, the effect of harmonic distortion on appearance of partial discharges in cable insulation was evaluated. Here, the study related to the PD be…

Forecasts on the development of hydrogen refuelling infrastructures in Portugal

In Portugal, the transition to new forms of mobility has begun in recent years, but there are still obstacles to overcome. Currently, hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) are the most widespread and accepted by the community and that is probably due to range anxiety, having in fact the possibility of double charging (both through the thermal engine and the electric battery). Furthermore, it must be considered that in addition to electric vehicles, another valid alternative to mobility in the near future is the hydrogen vehicles one. These appear to be even more sustainable from the point of view of air emissions, but on the other hand the costs for the production of hydrogen are still too high. Then, th…

Effect of Polarity Reversal on the Partial Discharge Phenomena

In the field of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission, the space charge accumulation phenomenon and the Partial Discharges (PD) phenomena are considered the main causes of dielectric ageing. During the years, the degradation effect of both phenomena under constant DC stress has been widely studied by several researchers. In case of polarity reversal, typically carried out to control bi-directional power flow between interconnected High Voltage transmission systems, the space charge movement may not synchronously follow the electric field polarity. This could make the moment of reversing polarity a very critical one, where space charge injected during preceding polarity produces hi…

Processo di denoising per l'acquisizione di segnali di scariche parziali mediante trasformata wavelet discreta (DWT)

Evaluation of Ecological Benefits - CO2 Emissions

Tecniche di ottimizzazione delle connessioni di pannelli solari

Applicazione della decomposizione wavelet multirisoluzione (MWD) per il riconoscimento di segnali di scariche parziali multisorgente

Experimental Investigation on the Performances of Innovative PV Vertical Structures

The sustainable development of our planet is considerably related to a relevant reduction of CO2 global emissions, with building consumption contributing more than 40%. In this scenario, new technological conceptions, such as building-integrated photovoltaic technology, emerged in order to satisfy the requirements of sustainability imposed by the European Union. Therefore, the aim of this work is to provide a technical and economical comparison of the performances of different vertical-mounted innovative photovoltaic systems, potentially integrated on a building instead of on traditional windows or glass walls. The proposed investigation was carried out by means of experimental tests on thr…

Effect of Heat Exchange Transient Conditions with Moving Water-Air Interface on Space Charge Accumulation in Undersea HVdc Cables

The accumulation of space charge inside the dielectric layer of an HVdc cable is one of the most important issue to be considered in the design stage and during the operating conditions. The separation of space charge is due to several factors including the dependence on temperature of the electrical conductivity of the insulation and the establishment of a thermal gradient under load conditions. This article is focused on the investigation of the effect of an axial heat transmission on the space charge and electric field distributions in an HVdc cable. In order to assess the impact of this phenomenon, a case study involving a cable immersed partly in water and partly in air has been simula…

ENERGIA ELETTRICA DALLE PRECIPITAZIONI

Electromagnetic radiated field measurements for partial discharge diagnostic

Recently, improvements have been made in the diagnostic of electrical insulation systems by means of electric Partial Discharge (PD) standard measurements through a stochastic approach in the treatment of the acquired data: in this way, the identification of the defects as well as the separation of multiple defects simultaneously active, have been successfully performed. However, the standard PD measurement process can be affected by the well-known parasitic effects due to conducted noise whose spectrum can have characteristics similar to those of the measured signal. Moreover, the classic PD measurement system have to be suitable assembled on the Device Under Test (DUT) so determining a co…

Measuring rain energy with the employment of “Arduino”

This paper presents the performances of rainfall energy harvesting through the use of a piezoelectric transducer and an Arduino-based measuring system. Diverse studies agree on the possibility of generating electricity from rainfall, but to date, a study that can measure the quantity of energy produced during rainfall is still missing. The present study begins with results obtained from laboratory researchers using piezoelectric transducers and oscilloscopes — to measure the energy produced from a single raindrop — and concludes with an ad hoc Arduino-based measuring system, aimed at measuring the actual amount of electrical energy produced by a piezoelectric transducer that is exposed to r…

On the harvest of rainfall energy by means of piezoelectric transducer

In this paper a detailed study on the harvest of the energy contained in rainfall by means of piezoelectric transducers is presented. Diverse studies agree on the level of suitable generated voltage on the electrodes of a piezoelectric transducer subjected to rainfall, but a complete characterization on the supplied power is still missing. This work, in order to limit optimistic forecasts, takes into account the behavior of the transducers subjected to real and also artificial rainfall, condition that has shown promising behavior in laboratory. In order to increase the energy harvesting and also define its limits different loads have been taken into account. Only commercial transducers have…

Detection of Partial Discharges at Square Shaped Voltages

Due to the wide use of electronic converters and the introduction of new powerful power electronics devices, the input waveforms most often used are becoming much different than the traditional power frequent sinusoidal one. In High Voltage (HV) apparatus particularly, this condition can increase the stress on the insulation systems that may lower the reliability of the whole power grid. This type of input voltage, often showing an increased voltage gradient, causes problems in the Partial Discharge (PD) measurement setup and acquisition systems, also due to the increased harmonic content. In this paper, the main aim is to discuss how to suitably approach the measurement technique of PDs at…

Partial discharges behavior under different rectified waveforms

In this work, a previous software used to simulate partial discharges (PDs) under Alternating Current (AC) stress has been modified in order to evaluate the PDs behavior under a voltage stress close to the Direct Current (DC) waveform. By using a full-wave and a half-wave rectifier, the specimen with an air void defects has been subjected to a gradual constant stress. Finally, a capacitive filter has been inserted in order to produce a steadier voltage supply. Simulation results show that under an almost DC waveform, the PDs activity become less compared to AC stress.

Un modello per l’analisi dei disturbi di modo comune indotti su azionamenti in presenza di fulminazione atmosferica

Un modello di simulazione della ionizzazione del terreno nel comportamento dinamico di elettrodi interrati disperdenti elevate correnti impulsive

The Acoustic Wave Behavior Within the PEA Cell for Space Charge Measurement

In order to evaluate the acoustic wave behavior within the Pulsed Electro Acoustic (PEA) cell, a simulation model has been developed in this work. The model, implemented in Matlab environment, is based on the analogy between acoustic and electrical quantities. Therefore, it was possible to model the PEA cell as cascade connected lossy transmission lines. The model has been validated theoretically by making a comparison with a simulation result found in literature. The experimental validation has also been made by using the PEA cell of the LEPRE high voltage lab. In addition, four graphs have been realized. Two of them can be used to establish in easy and fast way to obtain the minimum groun…

Simplified hybrid PD model in voids: Pattern validation

The purpose of the present work is to show the validation of a new model to simulate the physical phenomenon of partial discharge (PD) produced in air voids inside insulating epoxy resin. The model has been developed on the basis of a new approach that combines the known circuit model of three capacitors with a model used to describe the behavior of the ionized channel inside of the inclusion during the discharge phenomenon, short-circuiting the capacity that represents the void. The approach is based on time-variable conductance of the void, subjected to multistress conditions: voltage, temperature and pressure. The new approach has been developed from a time variable conductivity model us…

Nanostructured lead acid battery for electric vehicles applications

This paper presents an innovative lead acid battery, based on nanostructured active materials. Both charging time and specific energy are greatly enhanced in comparison with commercial lead acid battery. Starting from the extremely valuable performances of the nanostructured battery, also a circuital model, for application in electric vehicle traction, has been specifically developed. The circuital model has demonstrated that an enhanced nanostructured battery allows an increase of traveled distance by electric vehicles.

Increasing efficiency of photovoltaic systems under non-homogeneous solar irradiation using improved Dynamic Programming methods

Abstract The paper presents a complete technique, based on the combination of algorithms, devoted to minimize losses and increase efficiency of Total Cross Tied (TCT) connected photovoltaic (PV) systems under non-homogeneous solar irradiation, based on irradiance equalization criterion. Irradiance equalization is achieved by changing the connections of the solar panels adaptively by a dynamic switching matrix so that total solar radiation on parallel circuits is the most equalized. In this paper, the authors introduce two algorithms. The first one is SmartChoice (SC) algorithm, which is combined with Dynamic Programming (DP) in order to create a hybrid method and obtain better results as co…

Polarity reversal in HVDC joints - The effect of the axial thermal conduction

It has been shown that the establishment of a thermal gradient over the radius of HVDC cables involves the accumulation of space charge within the dielectric layer. High thermal gradients over the insulation thickness of loaded cables can lead to the inversion of the radial electric field pattern. In this scenarios, transient overvoltages and polarity reversal can lead to local and transitory peaks of electric field. Since the temperature distribution plays an important role in reaching critical values of the electric field, it has been considered interesting to have a more in-depth view of the thermal behavior of HVDC systems close the discontinuities of the geometry along the cable axis. …

Different Measurement Setup Configurations for Space Charge test in Mini Cable Specimens with the PEA Method

Under DC stress, the space charge accumulation is believed one of the most responsible of dielectrics ageing. For this reason, due to the increase of the HVDC transmission, a recommendation has been proposed. The latter want to introduce the space charge measure, with the PEA method, in cable specimens during the prequalification or type tests. Considering the several issues related to this kind of measures the aim of the proposed work is find a measurement setup for mini cable specimens which is able to provide a clear and clean space charge profile. Therefore, different tests have been made in this work. In particular, the length of the cable specimen, the width of the pulse electrodes, a…

Acoustic Wave Behavior in a Specimen Containing an Air Void Defect

The PEA method is the most used technique for the space charge measurements. As is well known, this method uses pressure waves to detect the charges accumulated in solid dielectrics. Based on its working principle, the generated acoustic waves travel within PEA cell and the specimen under test in order to be finally detected by the piezoelectric sensor. For a multilayer specimen and, in particular, in case of different materials that make up the specimen, the acoustic wave reflection is inevitable. Considering that, in several cases, the reflected waves could be detected by the piezoelectric sensor before than the main signals, the PEA cell output profile could results distorted. Based on t…

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-Based Non Destructive Diagnostics

The paper proposes a cloud platform for analyzing the radiometric infrared videos uploaded by drones which patrol large photovoltaic plants. Thanks to artificial vision algorithms, it does not require any human support to select and associate the framed PV modules to the corresponding ones in the topology of the photovoltaic plant. The algorithm implements an innovative diagnostic protocol, which evaluates the thermal state of the photovoltaic module, whichever the environmental conditions are. The data automatically computed and collected in a multimedia database provide the O&M technicians with significant information to monitor the ageing of each module of the photovoltaic plant. The pro…

Energy Management via Connected Household Appliances

The study reported hereafter provides results based on a campaign of simulations conducted by University of Palermo on the basis of its knowledge in the field Energy Value Chain and in the field of Energy Management (EM) for household appliances. Inputs from CECED Convergence WG has been fundamental to base that study on realistic data and cases. Moreover, the so called EM study, offers also a clear picture about the opportunity to have energy management applications and services in house, being those opportunities strictly related to the cost of in- frastructure needed and to the benefits belonging to different actors in the energy value chain. Energy savings have been considered both in t…

Diagnosi dell’affidabilità dei sistemi di isolamento mediante l’impiego di sonde di campo elettrico e magnetico per la misura di scariche parziali

El papel de la formalización y la confianza organizacional como antecedentes de ambidestreza: una investigación sobre la industria agroalimentaria orgánica

This article investigates the influence of specific key organizational factors (i.e., enabling formalization, coercive formalization, and trust) as antecedents of ambidexterity. Moreover, we propose a new way of operationalizing ambidexterity, under a holistic vision, including the synergies between exploration and exploitation. The study has been developed in the Spanish organic agro-food industry; a total of 239 usable responses were received from two respondents from each company—the general manager and the quality manager. The findings show that enabling formalization and organizational trust are positively related to ambidexterity, but contrary to our predictions, we found no evidence …

Different Space Charge Behavior of Materials Used in AC and DC Systems

The aim of the present work is to evaluate the behavior, from the space charge accumulation phenomenon point of view, of three different XLPE specimens used as insulation materials in high voltage systems. Considering that under DC stress the charge accumulation is more relevant as compared to the AC case, in the specimens for DC applications additives are typically added. In this work, three different specimens are analyzed. One is a free additive sample used conventionally under AC stress and two others include different additives that are used under DC stress. In order to measure the space charge accumulation, the Pulsed Electro Acoustic (PEA) method has been employed. For each sample, t…

Caratterizzazione di sensori elettromagnetici compatti per il rilievo di scariche parziali

Investigation on partial discharges in HVDC cables after polarity reversal events

Due to the accumulation of space charge inside the insulating layer of HVDC cables, the electric field under load conditions may be altered compared to what is established in HVAC cables. For example, a high thermal gradient leads to the inversion of the electric field pattern until the maximum value is reached in proximity of the dielectric-semicon interfaces. These maximum values can be further increased due to transient overvoltages and polarity reversal events until reaching electric field values higher than the rated ones. The main goal of this research is to investigate the possibility that, during these transient phenomena, conditions are created that favor the occurrence of partial …

Diagnosi e valutazione dell'affidabilità di sistemi di isolamento di componenti di impianti attraverso l'applicazione di tecniche di intelligenza artificiale alla misura di scariche parziali

Modelli numerici meshfree per l’analisi di problemi elettromagnetici.

STUDIO SULLA FORMA DI RIVELATORI WIRELESS DI SCARICHE PARZIALI

Electric Mobility in Portugal: Current Situation and Forecasts for Fuel Cell Vehicles

In recent years, the growing concern for air quality has led to the development of sustainable vehicles to replace conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Currently, the most widespread technology in Europe and Portugal is that of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) or plug‐in HEV (PHEV) electric cars, but hydrogen‐based transport has also shown significant growth in the commercialization of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV) and in the development of new infrastructural schemes. In the current panorama of EV, particular attention should be paid to hydrogen technology, i.e., FCEVs, which is potentially a valid alternative to BEVs and can also be hybrid (FCHEV) and plug‐in hybrid…

Partial Discharges Diagnostics Along Medium Voltage Cables

In the last years different partial discharge (PD) measuring techniques have been developed because PD diagnostic is the most widely tool to evaluate the insulation condition of a power cable. Recently non-conventional methods and sensors have been used in order to reach improved results in PD measurements. New sensors based on wireless technology were developed in order to simplify PD measurement especially for on-line, on-site diagnosis. The purpose of this work is to perform measurements that allow to study the variation of pulses when they travel along a medium voltage cable and characterize a new smart PD source detector and locator, named Wings sensor. For these purposes, internal PD …

Contributed Review: Review of thermal methods for space charge measurement.

The space charge accumulation phenomenon has garnered great interest over the last two decades because of the increased use of direct current in high voltage electrical systems. In this context, a significant relevance has been achieved by the thermal methods, used for solid dielectrics. This paper presents a review of this non-destructive measurement system used for the measurement of space charge. The thermal pulse method, the thermal step method, and the laser intensity modulation method are described. For each configuration, the principle of operation, the thicknesses analyzed, and the spatial resolution are described, reporting also the main related applications

Partial Discharge Measurements under DC Voltages Containing Harmonics Produced by Power Electronic Devices

Partial Discharge (PD) monitoring is one of the main diagnostic instrument to evaluate the reliability of modern electrical transmission and distribution systems. The widespread use of High voltage dc (HVDC) connections increase the demand of voltage source converters (VSCs) which, as a consequence, has brought about new challenges in the field of partial discharge measurements. In fact, the output voltage waveforms generated by AC/DC modular multilevel converters (MMCs) are affected by a significant harmonic content which influences the Partial Discharges (PDs) activity. For this reason, previous research mainly investigated the PD phenomenon on the AC side of the converter. The aim of the…

Design of Soft Ferrite filters for EMI reduction in Power Conversion Systems

The use of a discrete passive filter is the most attractive solution for EMI reduction in power conversion systems. This is due to its simplicity of concept and efficiency in the frequency range up to tens of megahertz and over. The common mode and differential mode sections of the EMI filter contain capacitors and soft magnetic chokes and, when they are used in the transportation context, their design has to satisfy further constraints in terms of low weight, low volume, low losses and low cost in adjoint to filtering efficiency. In this framework the authors, by using an EMI filter design procedure already setup by themselves, investigate, also with an experimental setup, the possibility …

Dynamic programming and Munkres algorithm for optimal photovoltaic arrays reconfiguration

Abstract In this paper, an original formulation of the control problem for optimal PV array reconfiguration, following a Total Cross Tied layout, is proposed. The formulation follows the well-known subset sum problem, which is a special case of the knapsack problem. The reconfiguration is a measure devoted to mitigate the mismatch effect and maximize the output power of small photovoltaic plants under non-homogeneous working conditions. Therefore, reconfiguration means changing the connections of the solar panels adaptively by a dynamic switching matrix. The control system implements an easy dynamic programming algorithm to change the switches layout. The use of the Munkres assignment metho…

Android tool to evaluate grounding resistance

In the absence of sources of rapidly varying field, the study of the potential distribution determined, in a linear medium, by a geometrically complex grounding may be conducted by applying the method of superposition of the effects, known as method of subareas of Maxwell. Such approach can be usefully employed in an educational tool intended for students of electrical engineering.

Partial discharges on IGBT modules: Are sinusoidal waveforms sufficient to evaluate behavior?

In recent years, the increasing use of AC-DC converters, especially in the field of renewable energy sources has led to the implementation of new modulation techniques, in particular the ones based on the pulse width modulation. The purpose of the present work is to verify the different behavior that is obtained when the components are subjected to the partial discharge test carried out with a sinusoidal waveform, and when they are subjected to PWM stress-type, similar to the actual signal generated by this type of electronic components. By considering equal rms value of the fundamental sine wave, the comparison has shown different partial discharges patterns.

Pulsed Electro-Acoustic Method for specimens and cables employed in HVDC systems: Some feasibility considerations

Recent experiments on the use of the PEA method for testing dielectric materials in specimens and comparison with a detailed model provide an insight of the phenomenon and suggest the need of adopting similar models also for cables. What is said is even more important considering the possible future adoption of the PEA methodology to test DC cables for Pre-Qualification and Type Tests. The use of an accurate model of the PEA cell used for testing specimens and related experiments prove that the thickness of the different parts composing the PEA setup is a basic element for providing accurate charge reading and interpretation of the phenomenon. Both simulation and experimental results, carri…

UN METODO COMBINATO CWT-DWT PER IL RICONOSCIMENTO DI SEGNALI DI SCARICHE PARZIALI

Comparison on the use of PV systems in the vertical walls

In this article the preliminary evaluation of the performance of a photovoltaic window is presented. The aim is to trace the behavior of next-generation systems, which favor architectonical integration. Three different systems have been taken into account: a dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC), blue and grey caved silicon panels. The systems can be placed behind a window or behind a wall of glass blocks.

Spettrometria dielettrica di materiali isolanti nanocompositi a base di polimero-silicato lamellare

Reconfiguration Techniques of Partial Shaded PV Systems for the Maximization of Electrical Energy Production

In this paper, the research of the optimal layout of photovoltaic (PV) modules in a PV array giving the maximum output power under different shaded working conditions is carried out. The particular condition of non uniform solar exposition of the modules is analyzed. The study of the different configurations has been carried out starting from a circuital model used for the design of PV cells and for the simulation of the working behavior of PV arrays. The attained results appear to be interesting although the complexity of the problem in mathematical terms is huge when the number of panels is high. Moreover, the results confirm that this approach often allows to attain a higher electrical e…

ALGORITMI DI OTTIMIZZAZIONE DELLE CONNESSIONI DI SISTEMI FOTOVOLTAICI

Partial Discharge defects Classification by Discrete Wavelet Transform

Replacement of Vehicle Fleet with EVs Using PV Energy

The diffusion of Electric Vehicles (EVs), the reduction of environmental pollution and the production of energy from renewable sources (RES), in particular photovoltaic system, wind farm, hydroelectric plants, bioenergy and geothermal plants are the principal aspects discussed in the world. For this reason, the goal of this work is to study for 2014 year in all Italy's Regions; the energy production obtained to photovoltaic systems (PV) and the possibility to use with different percentage this energy for recharge the electric vehicles. In particular, they have been considered different scenarios in function to the km travelled per year from the population. This paper examines the integratio…

Remote voltage synchronization for wireless Partial Discharge diagnostics

The main objective of this paper is the assessment of the exact phase angle displacement of each Partial Discharge, PD, pulse with respect to the voltage reference waveform. Such problem also referred to as ‘synchronization’ is relevant when the cable is not accessible and the PD measure is carried out in wireless mode. It is well known, that the angle phase shift, due to the propagation phenomenon on the transmission line, can be calculated knowing the line type and length and typical operating conditions of the transmission line. The setup comprises a customized electronic device, the “Phase check”, a server to collect remote measurements and a Look up table to provide corrections to the …

Rainfall energy harvester

This chapter provides a detailed study on the harvest of the energy contained in raindrops by means of piezoelectric transducers. The energy harvester has the role of an electric source, able to recharge storage devices of small electronic components, such wireless sensors, by using the vibrational energy released by the drops hitting the transducer, reducing in such a way the chemical waste of conventional batteries. In technical literature, diverse studies agree on the level of suitable generated voltage on the electrodes of a piezoelectric transducer subjected to rainfall, but a complete characterization on the supplied power is still missing. This work, also to limit optimistic forecast…

Recharge stations: A review

Charging equipment for all-Electric Vehicles (EVs) is classified by the rate at which the batteries are charged. Charging times vary based on how depleted the battery is, how much energy it holds, the type of battery, and the type of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). In this paper, a review of the innovative charging stations is reported.

Wireless Power Transmission for house appliances: A small-scale resonant coupling prototype

This paper presents a low cost prototype of wireless power transfer system based on resonant coupling. The system here proposed can be useful for house appliances battery charging systems: as a matter of fact, it consists mainly of two copper wire coils or windings, placed one in front of the other on the same axis. By exploiting the coils resonance coupling effect, electric energy can be transferred from the inductor coil to the receiver in order to charge the batteries. Low cost experimental tests demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed wireless power transfer prototype, being it capable to reach an efficiency of about 80% and more along a distance of 30 cm.

CARATTERIZZAZIONE ELETTROMAGNETICA DI IGBT IN PRESENZA DI SCARICHE PARZIALI

Use of Time-Frequency map combined with DBSCAN algorithm for separation of partial discharge pulses under DC voltage

The Phase-Resolved-Partial-Discharge pattern (PRPD) is a conventional technique used for the evaluation of partial discharges (PD) phenomena in High-Voltage-Alternating-Current (HVAC) systems. This map is constructed by plotting the peak of each detected pulses as a function of the phase angle of the supply voltage. Therefore it is obvious that this technique cannot be used for the analysis of data from PD mesaurement under different supply voltage condition (DC). The aim of this paper is to evaluate the application of the Time-Frequency map (TF map) for the analysis of a dataset obtained from PD measurement under DC voltage. A density-based clustering algorithm was also used to gain more i…

Partial discharge of gel insulated high voltage power modules subjected to unconventional voltage waveforms

Performances and duration of the new generation of high voltage power electronic components are dependent on dielectric materials aim to insulating their internal terminals. The presence of defects, some due to faults generated during the manufacturing process, but also due to the internal design of layers and connections, can cause local enhancements of electric field and consequently possible activity of partial discharges phenomena or other effects (aging, tracking) that may result in reduction of device reliability. Furthermore, the usage of unconventional voltage waveforms, like square waves or pulse width modulated waves, additionally increases the electrical aging of the insulation s…

A new technique for partial discharges measurement under DC periodic stress

The aim of the present work is to recognize the type of defect in insulating materials employed in DC electrical systems. This analysis, under AC stress, is carried out by using the Phase Resolved method (PRPD). While, under constant voltage stress this method cannot be performed and measurements show complexities. In order to overcome these problems, a new technique is proposed, based on the application of a periodic continuous waveform. Simulation results, carried out by using a model based on a time-variable conductance of an air void defect, showed the PRPD pattern that can be obtain. Furthermore, compared to the constant DC stress, the measurement duration became lower and the discharg…

A hierarchical architecture for increasing efficiency of large photovoltaic plants under non-homogeneous solar irradiation

Abstract Under non-homogeneous solar irradiation, photovoltaic (PV) panels receive different solar irradiance, resulting in a decrease in efficiency of the PV generation system. There are a few technical options to fix this issue that goes under the name of mismatch. One of these is the reconfiguration of the PV generation system, namely changing the connections of the PV panels from the initial configuration to the optimal one. Such technique has been widely considered for small systems, due to the excessive number of required switches. In this paper, the authors propose a new method for increasing the efficiency of large PV systems under non-homogeneous solar irradiation using Series-Para…

Space charge accumulation in undersea HVDC cables as function of heat exchange conditions at the boundaries – water-air interface

Transmission lines with undersea HVDC cables are an interesting technological solution for the supply of electrical energy to islands. The accumulation of space charge inside the dielectric layer of a HVDC cable is one of the most important element to consider in its design and during operation. The formation of space charge is due to various factors including the high dependence on the temperature of the electrical conductivity of the insulation and the establishment of a thermal gradient under load conditions. This research is focused on the space charge accumulation phenomenon around a section of a HVDC cable half dipped in water and half in air. Due to the high difference in thermal con…

Performances of a PCB-based Loop Antenna Inductive Sensor for Partial Discharges Detection

This paper presents the test results of an electrically small loop antenna sensor towards detecting the radiated magnetic field due to partial discharge (PD) activities. The loop antenna prototype was printed on an FR-4 substrate with a thickness of 1.6 mm, featuring a compact size of 20 mm times20 mm times1.7 mm. The proposed sensor, initially simulated with Ansys HFSS software, has a resonant frequency of about 100 MHz. Its detection capability for three types of partial discharges (i.e., corona, surface and internal PDs) has been evaluated. Laboratory experiments showed that the evaluated loop spiral antenna is appropriate for the detection of the three types of PDs. Indeed, the results …

The Partial Discharge Behavior of Different Materials under DC Periodic Stress

The aim of the present work is to evaluate the PDs behavior by stressing a specimen with a new type of waveform named DCP. This waveform was proposed by the authors in a previous work with the aim to overcome the main issues of PDs under DC stress. In the previous work PDs test on Kapton specimen was performed. In this paper, we propose a new DCP test on a different insulating material, such as the XLPE. The obtained patterns and the acquired data have been evaluated in order to validate the DCP approach as a new method for PDs measure under constant stress. The behavior of the XLPE material has been reported and compared with the former measures obtained for Kapton material.

Wireless partial discharge tracking on cross-linked polyethylene MV and HV cables

Medium voltage (MV)/high voltage (HV) cable lines are high-value assets and require substantial costs for their installation or replacement. For this reason, the capability to assess the condition of cable lengths and accessories on site is of great importance. Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation is extensively used for MV, HV, and extra-high voltage (EHV) class cables [1] thanks to its excellent voltage-endurance and thermomechanical properties. In particular, XLPE-insulated cables feature substantially lower losses, easier manufacturing and jointing procedures, better environmental compatibility, and higher operating temperature compared with impregnated paper cables, which lead t…

Predictability of PD inception in defects included in HVDC cables by conductivity models calibrated through experiments

To date, there are several methods for calculating the electric field distribution within a dielectric layer subjected to HVDC voltage. However, experimental techniques for evaluating the accuracy of models for calculating the electric field, such as space charge measurement, are often not precise enough to be used for this purpose. At the same time, the knowledge of Partial Discharge (PD) phenomenon occurring under HVDC stress is also not as developed as that of PD under HVAC voltage. The main goal of this research is to study the effectiveness of dielectric conductivity models to forecast the inception condition for PD under load and HVDC voltage stress. This study has been carried out by…

Studio di applicabilità e di fattibilità di tecniche diagnostiche CND basate su prove elettriche

Un modello dinamico per la simulazione della ionizzazione di terreni non omogenei in presenza di elettrodi disperdenti elevate correnti impulsive

La caratterizzazione elettromagnetica del comportamento dinamico di elettrodi interrati, disperdenti elevate correnti impulsive, costituisce uno degli aspetti primari nella progettazione di un sistema di protezione dalle fulminazioni atmosferiche (LPS). D’altra parte, elevate correnti impulsive possono causare l’insorgere di fenomeni di ionizzazione del terreno, nelle zone prossime agli elettrodi interrati, nei punti in cui il campo elettrico totale supera il valore critico. Modelli teorici e misure sperimentali correlano l’insorgere di variazioni di conducibilità del terreno in prossimità di elettrodi interrati interessati da elevate correnti impulsive al fenomeno della ionizzazione del te…

A Smart Sensing Method for Real- Time Monitoring of Low Voltage Series-Arc-Fault

This paper proposes a smart sensing method for real-time monitoring of low voltage series arc fault. It is based on the wavelet coefficient mean-difference algorithm and the four spikes appearing within two fundamental periods criterion with adaptive threshold. The method also uses the hard thresholding wavelet denoising with the universal threshold. An arc fault factor and a load adaptation factor are introduced and combined with a correction factor, so allowing the selection of the adaptive threshold in real-time and the series arc fault detection.

Investigation of PCB-based Inductive Sensors Orientation for Corona Partial Discharge Detection

This paper presents an experimental investigation of two different printed circuit board (PCB) inductive sensors, with meander and non-spiral shapes, to assess their capabilities and best orientation for corona partial discharge (PD) detection. First, simulations with the Ansys HFSS software are performed in order to evaluate the equivalent electrical circuit of the two sensors and their 2d radiation patterns. The meander sensors presented a resonant frequency of 600 MHz, while it was around 1.1 GHz for the non-spiral. The 2d radiation pattern showed that better sensitivity is achieved when the inductive sensor is oriented 90 degrees with respect to the PD source. Experimental tests showed …

From electric mobility to hydrogen mobility: current state and possible future expansions

The expansion of electric vehicles in Italy, has already started a few years ago, but some aspects prevent its expansion. Currently users prefer hybrid technology, mainly due to socio-economic factors related to initial investment and anxiety about autonomy. The aim of the document is to understand if the adoption of Fuel Cell technology can be a solution to overcome the problems of environmental pollution. The possibility to be able to use fuel cells to store electricity is very advantageous, especially on charging times that are significantly reduced. Based on the current situation and analyzing the available data, this work reports the current state of electric mobility in Italy and trie…

Economical evaluation of ecological benefits of the demand side management

Environmental pollution and over-exploitation of non-renewable sources to find energy are current topics for the modern world that is now at having to deal with several issues such as the greenhouse effect, acid rain and climate change. In this study, the economical estimate of the savings in carbon dioxide obtained with a careful management of electrical loads is presented. Four particular scenarios are designed as case studies: Italy, France, United Kingdom and Germany. A comparison is presented with a similar study, made in 2007, when green energies were not yet very developed.

Simplified Hybrid PD Model in Voids

In this paper a novel approach to model partial discharges (PD) activity taking place inside a spherical void in epoxy resin system has been traced. The approach is based on a time varying conductance of the inner void, subjected to multistress conditions: voltage, temperature and pressure. A simple lumped circuit macro-model simulates the global effects of PD activity: the different parameters influencing the discharge phenomenon in the void are taking into account by using a physical approach resulting in a time varying conductance inside the circuit. The evaluated PD activity has been compared with experimental and simulated one for the accessible and inaccessible part of the system. A d…

A combined CWT-DWT method using model-based design simulator for partial discharges online detection

The suppression of noises is fundamental in onsite Partial Discharge (PD) measurements. For this purpose, the wavelet transform analysis method has been developed and it is a powerful tool for processing the transient and suddenly changing signals. As the wavelet transform possesses the properties of multi-scale analysis and time-frequency domain localization, it is also particularly suitable to process the suddenly changing signals of the partial discharge pulse (PD). In this paper, an improved Wavelet denoising method developed by a model-based design software is presented. Simulations are provided as well as some results obtained during laboratory experiment and on-line PD measurements. …

Economic evaluation on the use of reconfiguration systems for increase of energy production in PV plants

This paper presents an economic analysis of the effectiveness of Dynamic Reconfiguration Systems (DRS) for PV plants in dependence of the incentive policies offered by several countries of the European Community. This evaluation has been achieved by means of the NPV (Net Present Value) and through the comparison between Bulgaria, Romania, Greece and Croatia. From the obtained results, it can be stated that the adoption of reconfiguration systems, in certain cases, can be a convenient solution.

Electromagnetic Full-Wave Simulation of Partial Discharge Detection in High Voltage AC Cables

Partial discharge (PD) activity in the insulation system of an electrical equipment can determine the failure of the whole apparatus. PD sensors are widely used in high-voltage electrical systems as the main elements of a detecting system oriented to real time monitoring. Recently, non-invasive sensors have been proposed in industrial applications for cable and other sensitive electrical parts: they are based both on capacitive and on the electromagnetic radiating coupling. In order to assess the real performance of a new sensor produced by a high voltage AC cables manufacturer, the paper proposes electromagnetic fullwave simulation results.

Reconfigurable electrical interconnection strategies for photovoltaic arrays: A review

Non-uniform irradiance significantly decreases the power delivered by solar photovoltaic arrays. A promising technique for compensating these power losses relies on dynamically reconfiguring the electrical connections between photovoltaic modules. This paper presents the current state-of-the-art strategies for photovoltaic array reconfiguration in order to increase the power output under partial shading and mismatch conditions. The different approaches have been compared in terms of effectiveness of the control algorithms, monitored electrical and environmental variables, overall hardware complexity and specific features of each solution. Finally, the most challenging aspects of the reconfi…

L'impiego del Tachosil in chirurgia epatica

Il controllo delle perdite ematiche intra e post-operatorie caratterizza da sempre la chirurgia resettiva epatica. Nel corso degli ultimi anni notevoli progressi sono stati compiuti in tale ambito, grazie all'adozione di materiali e strumentari sempre più specifici ed efficaci che consento l'esecuzione di interventi resettivi con minime perdite ematiche ed una significativa riduzione dell'incidenza di complicanze emorragiche post-operatorie. Vengono presentati 2 casi di resezione epatica realizzata utilizzando un manipolo a radiofrequenza senza eseguire il clampaggio del peduncolo epatico e senza l'utilizzo di clips o legature per le piccole perdite dalla trancia di sezione. Un buon control…

UN NUOVO APPROCCIO ALLA MODELIZZAZIONE DEGLI EFFETTI DELLE SCARICHE PARZIALI ATTRAVERSO LA MISURA DEL CAMPO ELETTROMAGNETICO

Eletric vehicles impact using renewable energy

In this moment, the principle topics for the modern world are the reduction of environmental pollution and the production of energy from renewable sources (for example photovoltaic system, wind farm, hydroelectric plants, etc.). This particular attention is determined by different reasons, in particular from the Kyoto Protocol, and from different problems as greenhouse effect, acid rain and climate change. The scope of this work is to study, for different years (1997-2013) in Italy, the production of electric energy from renewable and non-renewable. At a later stage, the attention will be on the consumption of the electric energy divided for different sectors. In particular, we study the po…

An improved MSD-based method for PD pattern recognition

In this paper a new method for multi source partial discharge (PD) pattern recognition by discrete wavelet transform, is presented. The proposed method is based on the application of multi-resolution signal decomposition (MSD) technique applied to a 3D PD pattern image. The multi-resolution technique has shown that some detail images (horizontal, vertical and diagonal) at different decomposition levels have frequencial characteristics typical of a single discharge phenomenon. By applying this method to a double-source PD pattern it is observed that one source prevails on the other. Taking advantage from the linearity of the biorthogonal wavelet functions by using a removal and reconstructio…

Review of acoustic methods for space charge measurement

In the last decade, due to the increased use of direct current, the space charge accumulation phenomenon has reached more interest. In this regard, several non-destructive measurement systems were used. In particular, for solid dielectrics, the acoustic methods have had greater success. This review presents a brief historical evolution of the Pulse Electro- Acoustic (PEA) method, describing the working operation, the thicknesses analyzed and the spatial resolution for the different configurations of the PEA cell. The Pressure Wave Propagation (PWP) method in both configurations Piezo-PWP and Laser Induced Pressure Pulse (LIPP) is also described.

Technical and economical evaluation on the use of reconfiguration systems in some EU countries for PV plants

This paper shows the technical and economical evaluation of the application of a reconfiguration system for photovoltaic (PV) plants, considering the incentives system in some European Union countries. The reconfiguration system is an alternative to the distributed maximum power point tracking technique which used to increase the power production in the PV plants under the mismatch phenomenon. The reconfiguration techniques employ a microprocessor-based or field-programmable gate array-based system that modifies the layout of the PV plant through the change of the connections among modules. After having presented the main features working of the PV reconfiguration system allowing the improv…

SVILUPPO DI UN SISTEMA DI ENERGY HARVESTING DALLA PIOGGIA

PD characteristics at Square Shaped Voltages Applying Two Different Detecting Techniques

Nowadays power electronic converters are widely used and the fast switching voltage fronts results in an increased stress on the insulation material and may cause a reduction of the HV systems reliability. Nonsinusoidal voltage waveform have influence on the partial discharges (PD) characteristics in insulating systems due to the increased harmonic content which causes problems mainly in electrical PD measurement setups. In fact, impulse voltages cause strong switching disturbances, which make it much more difficult to distinguish PD signals from noise. This work investigates the influence of repetitive steep pulses on different types of test objects exposed to square wave voltages applying…

Botulinum toxin vs. topical glyceryl trinitrate ointment for pain control in patients undergoing hemorrhoidectomy: a randomized trial.

PURPOSE: The maximum resting pressure in the anal canal is greatly raised after hemorrhoidectomy. This increase is likely to be the cause of postoperative pain, which is still the most troublesome early problem after hemorrhoidectomy. This study was designed to compare, after hemorrhoidectomy, the effects of intrasphincter injection of botulinum toxin vs. application of glyceryl trinitrate ointment in improving wound heating and reducing postoperative pain at rest or during defecation. METHODS: Thirty patients with hemorrhoids of third and fourth degree were included in the study and randomized in two groups. Anorectal manometry was performed preoperatively and 5 and 40 days after hemorrhoi…

Finite-Difference Time-Domain Simulation of Towers Cascade Under Lightning Surge Conditions

In this paper, the simulation of towers cascade under lightning surge conditions is presented. Finite-difference time-domain method is used to solve both the Maxwell's and telegraph equations. Maxwell's equations and the time-domain resistivity model of Darveniza are used to simulate the nonlinear behavior of the grounding system. Telegraph equations are used to describe the propagation in the overhead lines. Multiple ionizations, on different grounding electrodes belonging to various towers, can be implemented simultaneously, without making assumptions on the shape of the ionized areas.

Overcoming synchronization issues in wireless technology Partial Discharge measurement

In this paper, several aspects of the fundamentals of wireless Partial Discharge (PD) measurements are first discussed. Then, the relevance of the problem of voltage synchronization in PD wireless diagnosis is outlined. When portable instruments are used for PD detection, the main issue is the voltage measurement at the site where the PD detection is carried out. When such analysis is carried out over shielded cables, the AC (50/60 Hz) voltage reference signal is not easily detectable, while one of the basic parameters for PD diagnosis, the displacement of the inception voltage of the PD as compared to the reference voltage, is not available. Even if highperformance sensors are readily avai…

Photovoltaic facade: Comparison of actual technologies

This article aims to establish the economic contribution of a photovoltaic system placed on a façade of a building, replacing traditional elements such as windows and glass-cement walls with active elements. The aim is to compare the behavior of next-generation systems, which favor architectonical integration, with traditional ones. Two novel systems have been taken into account: a dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and blue and grey thin film silicon panels. Different generation systems have been tested and compared in terms of efficiency and fill factor.

Pattern recognition di segnali di scariche parziali mediante l’applicazione della decomposizione wavelet multirisoluzione

Economic evaluation of PV system for EV charging stations: Comparison between matching maximum orientation and storage system employment

This article addresses the problem of the choice of a generation system to be implemented to reduce the impact of charging electric vehicles at University. Based on the behaviour of the student population, it is identified the electrical load. Two possible solutions are evaluated in order to manage the peak load: an orientation of the panels in order to increase the power at defined time and the use of storage system. The main strength and weakness points of two systems are investigated by taking into account the Levelized Cost of Energy.

SVILUPPO DI ALGORITMI DI OTTIMIZZAZIONE FINALIZZATI A DIMENSIONAMENTO E GESTIONE MULTICRITERIO DI SISTEMI INGEGNERISTICI

The Role of Right Interpretation of Space Charge Distribution for Optimized Design of HVDC Cables

In the field of high-voltage transmission systems, different degradation phenomena affect the reliability of the employed components. In particular, under dc stress, the space charge accumulation phenomenon is believed to be the most responsible of the dielectrics lifetime reduction. To measure the accumulated space charges in flat specimens, the pulsed electro-acoustic (PEA) method is one of the most used techniques. The working principle of the PEA cell is based on the acoustic waves propagation and detection. As is well known, the acoustic waves propagating in different means are partially transmitted and partially reflected. Therefore, the piezoelectric sensor of the PEA cell is subject…

Influence on PD Parameters due to Voltage Conducted Disturbances

In the standard specification of ac dielectric-characteristic measurements of insulating materials, test voltage is prescribed as "approximately sinusoidal" when the highest acceptable deviation of the HV waveform, from the correct sinusoidal shape, is limited to a /spl plusmn/5% tolerance range of the crest factor value. In the field of partial discharge (PD) measurements and their statistical data processing, on which forecasts of long term behavior of components and their reliability are currently carried out, the results of elaborations depend on the voltage wave shape. In this paper, the errors in PD measurements, evaluated at industrial frequencies, due to applied voltages distorted b…

Radiometric Partial Discharge Detection: A Review

One of the most common failures or breakdowns that can occur in high-voltage (HV) equipment is due to partial discharges (PDs). This occurs as a result of inadequate insulation, aging, harsh environmental effects, or manufacturing flaws. PD detection and recognition methods have gained growing attention and have seen great progress in the past decades. Radiometric methods are one of the most investigated detection approaches due to their immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and their capabilities to detect and locate PD activities in different applications such as transformers, cables, etc. Several review articles have been published to classify and categorize these works. Nonethe…

On Psychological Aspects about Electric Vehicles, Part 1

The high diffusion of electric vehicles is evidenced by every sector magazine or by the catalog of all the manufacturers inserting incessantly new models. But what are the user's most hidden reactions to the new world of vehicles? Is the user ready for the fifth level of automation (fully automatic driving and absence of the driving position)? The purpose of this paper is to present and discuss the psychological aspects that influence the adoption of electric vehicles by users and beyond. Topics such as the egg and chicken paradox (electric vehicles and charging stations, who was born first) but also performance anxiety (range anxiety) will be addressed. Contradictions and irony will charac…

A new approach to partial discharge detection under DC voltage

The continuing development of HVDC power transmission systems presents many problems related to evaluation of the reliability of power system assets [1]-[5]. In this context the identification of insulation defects plays a key role in preventing unexpected failures of electrical components. Partial discharge (PD) measurement is a useful approach to assessing the condition of HV power apparatus and cables. Such measurements are also widely employed for HVAC systems. The inception mechanisms of PD in AC systems are well-known, and measurements are usually performed following the IEC 60270 standard [6]. PD measurements under DC voltage present complexities related to the nature of the phenomen…

Space Charges and Partial Discharges Simultaneous Measurements under DC Stress

In the field of HVDC, the main causes of insulation aging are due to the space charge and PD phenomena. In particular, the purpose of the present work is to verify a possibility to measure simultaneously the space charge and the PDs under DC stress in order to evaluate the correlation between both phenomena. The space charge was measured by using a modified PEA cell and PDs were measured by using a novel wireless sensor system. The space charge profile and the PD pulses carried out simultaneously have been reported and discussed.

Reliability of PEA Measurement in Presence of an Air Void Defect

This paper deals with the reliability of the Pulsed Electro-Acoustic (PEA) technique in the case of a specimen containing an air layer. The first approach to this study has been proposed by the authors in previously published works. In these papers, the mathematical description, the PEA cell simulation model, and some experimental tests have been reported. In this work, a more accurate description of the acoustic wave behavior within the PEA cell and specimen with and without an air layer is given. Moreover, the comparison between simulation and experimental tests for both cases (specimen with and without air layer) allowed the validation of the previously developed PEA cell simulation mode…

Assessment of treatment response in hepatocellular carcinoma: a review of literature

Dynamic reconfiguration systems for PV plant: Technical and economic analysis

Solar plants suffer of partial shading and mismatch problems. Without considering the generation of hot spots and the resulting security issues, a monitoring system for the health of a PV plant should be useful to drive a dynamic reconfiguration system (DRS) to solve bottlenecks due to different panels’ shading. Over the years different DRS architectures have been proposed, but no suggestions about costs and benefits have been provided. Starting from technical subjects such as differences of the topologies driving the hardware complexity and number of components, this paper identifies the cost of DRS and its lifetime, and based on these issues it provides an economic analysis for a 6 kWp PV…

Partial discharge behavior under single phase half and full-bridge rectifier

The aim of the present work is to simulate partial discharges (PDs) phenomena under voltage stress close to the Direct Current (DC) waveform. The employed waveforms have been realized by using a full-wave and a half-wave rectifiers. After that, in order to generate a steadier voltage supply, a capacitive filter has been inserted in the output of the half-wave rectifier. Simulations have been carried out by modifying a previous software used in the case of Alternating Current (AC). Finally, experimental tests have been carried out in order to validate simulation results.

Space Charge Measurement under DC and DC Periodic Waveform

In High Voltage systems, Partial Discharges (PDs) monitoring are one of the main diagnostic instrument to evaluate the reliability of the apparatus. Under Alternating Current (AC) stress, PDs detection and recognition techniques are well consolidated. On the contrary, the monitoring of PDs under Direct Current (DC) stress is difficult due to complexities related to the nature of the phenomenon, which cause the beginning of PDs events in proximity of the dielectric breakdown. This problem has been partially overcome by using a continuous Periodic waveform (DCP) with positive average value, as described in a recent published work. Under DC stress, another degradation factor is the Space Charg…

How is the spread of the Electric Vehicles?

Many automotive manufacturers are investing heavily in Electric Vehicle (EV) design and manufacturing. Governments and other public sector bodies are making significant investments in the development of EVs and introducing various tax credits, incentives and subsidies. In addition, energy companies and other industries have set their sights on electric vehicles. In particular, EV development is being strongly fueled by consumer demand stemming from economic and environmental factors. The scope of this work is to present a representation of the spread of EVs in some European countries, in order to address an integration of green energy with recharge of EVs with particular attention for Italy…

PV systems in the vertical walls: A comparison of innovative structures

This paper presents the performance comparison of PV windows with the purpose of tracing the behavior of next-generation systems, which could favor architectonical integration. More in detail, a dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and blue and grey thin film silicon panels have been analyzed. The systems can be placed behind a window or behind a wall of glass blocks. The three generation systems are then compared in terms of both efficiency and Fill Factor.

An economic study about the installation of PV plants reconfiguration systems in Italy

This paper shows the economic convenience of the application of a reconfiguration system for photovoltaic plants, considering the incentives system in Italy and its recent modifications. The reconfiguration is an alternative to the Distributed Maximum Power Point Tracking, DMPPT, technique used to overcome the mismatch problem in Photovoltaic, PV, plants. The reconfiguration techniques employ a microprocessor-based system that modifies the layout of the PV plant by physically changing the connections among modules. After the explanation of the working principle of the PV reconfiguration system allowing the improvement of the efficiency of the same plant and the relevant installation, the ma…

Processo di denoising mediante wavelet di segnali dovuti alle scariche parziali

Performance of the Glass Block in Photovoltaic Generation

In this article is presented the preliminary evaluation of the performance of radiation transmission of glass block, used in support of photovoltaic cells, investigating different internal surface points of the block, which are subject to different shading during daylight hours. The aim is to establish how the edging setting, the only opaque element, can reduce the amount of light radiation during the day, introducing in this way a reduction of efficiency of the entire generation system. The generation system can be based on traditional photovoltaic cells or on the most suitable dye sensitized solar cells. An experimental measurement setup employing a microprocessor-based instrument has bee…

Harvesting rainfall energy by means of piezoelectric transducer

In this paper a detailed study on the piezoelectric energy harvesting of rainfall is presented. Different features have been taken into account in order to define the limits in this energy harvesting. Only commercial transducers have been considered: a lead zirconate titanate and polyvinylidene difluoride transducer.

CARATTERIZZAZIONE AD ALTA FREQUENZA UN SISTEMA PER LA GENERAZIONE FOTOVOLTAICA

A novel flexible approach for prediction and on line diagnostic of partial discharge

Partial discharges (PD), due to unavoidable local defects produced by the industrial manufacturing process, can determine local erosion of the material that may cause the electrical breakdown of the component in which the dielectric material represents the fundamental part. Recently, improved diagnostics of electrical insulation systems by means of electric PD measurements through a stochastic processing of the acquired data have been carried out. In this way, the identification of the defects as well, as the separation of multiple defects simultaneously active, have been performed. In this paper, a novel flexible approach for the on-line characterization of the defects in a dielectric mate…

Partial discharges at different voltage waveshapes: Comparison between two different acquisition systems

In modern HV apparatuses the wide use of electronic converters, increase the stress on the involved insulation systems and thus affect the reliability of the whole power grid. Additionally, such non-sinusoidal voltage shapes contain high gradient flanks that create problems in the detection of partial discharge (PD) activity. The aim of this paper is to discuss the methodology on how to suitably approach PD detection in insulation systems exposed to various voltage waveshapes in general by comparing two different measuring systems. The first one, equipped with a resonant PD decoupler, designed specifically for detection at typical power electronic waveshapes and the other one, based on an a…

APPROCCIO PROBABILISTICO NELLA MODELLAZIONE IBRIDA DEI FENOMENI DI SCARICHE PARZIALI

Experimental analysis with FPGA controller-based of MC PWM techniques for three-phase five level cascaded H-bridge for PV applications

The FPGA represents a valid solution for the design of control systems for inverters adopted in the field of PV systems because of their high flexibility of use. This paper presents an experimental analysis of the MC SPWM techniques for a three-phase, five-level, cascaded H-Bridge inverter with FPGA controller-based. Several control algorithms are implemented by means of the VHDL programming language and the output voltage waveforms obtained from the main PWM techniques are compared in terms of THD%. Simulation and experimental results are analysed, compared and discussed.

RICONFIGURATORE DELLE CONNESSIONI DI SISTEMI FOTOVOLTAICI SOTTOPOSTI AD OMBREGGIAMENTO PARZIALE

Piezoelectric Rainfall Energy Harvester Performance by an Advanced Arduino-Based Measuring System

This paper presents the performances of rainfall energy harvesting through the use of a piezoelectric transducer and an Arduino-based measuring system. Different studies agree on the possibility of generating electricity from rainfall, but to date, a study on measuring the quantity of energy produced during rainfall is still missing. The present study begins with results obtained from laboratory researchers using piezoelectric transducers and oscilloscopes, finalized to measure the energy produced from a single raindrop, and concludes with an ad hoc Arduino-based measuring system, aimed to measure the actual amount of electrical energy produced by a piezoelectric transducer that is exposed …

Simulation of a single-phase five-level cascaded H-Bridge inverter with multicarrier SPWM B-Spline based modulation techniques

Multilevel Power Inverters are now often used to convert DC to AC voltage waveform. This kind of converter allows high power quality with low output harmonics and lower commutation losses with respect to the traditional ones in order to optimize this aspect. This paper presents a novel simulation analysis of the Multicarrier Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulation (MC SPWM) techniques B-Spline functions based to control the switches of five-level single-phase cascaded H-bridge inverter. In order to verify the performance of the converter, the harmonic content of the voltage due to modulation techniques has been taken into account. Results highlight the comparison between different B-Spline functi…

An Optimization Device for Series Parallel Connected PV Plants

In this paper it is presented a testing prototype of a reconfiguration system for photovoltaic (PV) plants. The system enables to increase the total energy output by reducing the electrical mismatch between the PV array modules. The architecture of the implemented switching matrix, performing the dynamic electrical interconnections of the PV panels, enables to reconfigure nine solar modules in a series-parallel (SP) configuration. The contribution is organized as follows. A brief state of the art is first presented, followed by a comparison between the SP and Total-Cross-Tied (TCT) connections. The prototype then is thoroughly described as well as the main design choices. Finally some tests…

The strategies for the diffusion of EVs: Focus on Norway and Italy

The goal of this work is to predict e-mobility trends which are essential for understanding the market and the infrastructure development over the next years. Nowadays among the many and different standards and rules there are two charging categories for electric vehicles: High power DC and AC charging modes. It will be interesting to see which technology will prevail in the next few years and if the charging mode option on a given EV affects its sales performance. This study presents the current e-mobility scenario in Norway and Italy, in particular analyzing: EV technical and commercial features, electric vehicle market related national incentive policies, technical and diffusion connecto…

A digital device for the diagnosis of insulation systems

A complete innovative measurement system (D2SI - device for the diagnosis of insulation systems) for both acquisition, analysis and processing of partial discharge signals generated in insulation systems under voltage stress (IEC standard), was designed and realized; several measurements on practical insulation systems demonstrated the full and correct equipment operation.

Interpretation of PEA Output Signal in a Multilayer Specimen

The aim of the present work is to evaluate the acoustic waves behavior within the Pulsed Electro-Acoustic (PEA) cell, in case of a multilayer specimen, in order to avoid misinterpretation of the output signal. Due to the reflection phenomenon of the acoustic waves travelling within the PEA cell, the output signal could be distorted. Because this aspect, for a given PEA cell with certain ground electrode and absorber thicknesses, depends on the sound velocity and thickness of the specimen under test, the latter must be carefully sized. For this aim, some useful relationships, that must be taken into account are given and described. In particular, a three layers sample simulating an air void …

An improved MSD-based method for PD defects classification

The new proposed method of pattern recognition is based on the application of Multi-resolution Signal Decomposition (MSD) technique of wavelet transform. This technique has showed off interesting properties in capturing the embedded horizontal, vertical and diagonal variations within an image obtained from the PD pattern in a separable form. This feature was exploited to identify in the PD pattern's MSD, relative at various family of partial discharge sources, some detail images typical of a single discharge phenomenon. The classification of a generic PD phenomenon is feasible through a comparison between its detail images and the detail images typical of a single discharge phenomenon. Test…

Review of the PEA Method for Space Charge Measurements on HVDC Cables and Mini-Cables

This review takes into account articles and standards published in recent years concerning the application of the Pulsed Electro Acoustic (PEA) method for space charge measurement on High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) cables and mini-cables. Since the 80s, the PEA method has been implemented for space charge measurements on flat specimens in order to investigate space charge phenomena and to evaluate the ageing of dielectrics. In recent years, this technique has been adapted to cylindrical geometry. Several studies and experiments have been carried out on the use of the PEA method for full size cables and HVDC cable models. The experiments have been conducted using different arrangements of…

Apparato di commutazione

La presente invenzione si riferisce ad un apparato di commutazione per il controllo e l'impostazione della configurazione circuitale dei pannelli di un modulo fotovoltaico.

The effect of Transient over Voltages on the Partial Discharges activity in HVDC joints

Rapid growth of HVDC cable line installations is expected in the coming years. Several research groups have investigated dielectric phenomena that occur in the insulation of HVDC cables and accessories that accelerate aging and reduce the reliability of this technology over time. Unlike in HVAC cables, under HVDC stress, the distribution of the electric field inside the insulation layer depends not only on the applied voltage but also on the temperature distribution and on other factors related to manufacturing such as the presence of impurities. Reaching local and transient electric field peaks can enhance the onset of Partial Discharges (PDs) which can lead to premature aging of the insul…

A Dynamic Electrical Scheme for the optimal reconfiguration of PV modules under non-homogeneous solar irradiation

This paper presents a strategy for the maximization of the output power of photovoltaic (PV) systems under non homogeneous solar irradiation by means of automatic reconfiguration of the PV arrays layout. The innovation of the proposed approach is the employment of a simple Dynamic Electrical Scheme (DES), allowing a large number of possible modules interconnection, to be installed between the PV generator and the inverter. The models of the PV generator and of the DES have been realized and simulated with Simulink (Dynamic System Simulation for MATLAB). The attained experimental results appear to be quite interesting in terms of the attainable benefit in power and thus energy terms. The lim…

Sensore di campo elettromagnetico per la misura di scariche parziali

Piezoelectric model of rainfall energy harvester

In this paper a model to predict the harvest of the energy contained in rainfall by means of piezoelectric transducers is presented. Different studies agree on the level of suitable generated voltage on the electrodes of a piezoelectric transducer subjected to rainfall, but a complete characterization on the supplied power is still missing. This work, in order to limit optimistic forecasts, compares the behavior of the transducers subjected to real and artificial rainfall, a condition that has shown promising behavior in laboratory.

DWT-based method for partial discharge (PD) defects classification

Review of space charge measurement systems: acoustic, thermal and optical methods

In the last decade, remarkable developments have concerned the methods of space charge measurement in the field of insulation systems diagnostic. In particular, methods based on acoustic and thermal phenomena have been largely used. The present review provides a broad overview on the different techniques used describing, for each of them, the working principle, the main features and the most relevant applications. Further details are provided for the Pulsed Electro-Acoustic (PEA) method, as it seems to be the most used. This article provides more details on its historical evolution, showing evidence for its technological limits and taking into consideration the advantages and drawn from the…