Effect of geometrical parameters on high frequency performance of Rogowski coil for partial discharge measurements

Partial discharges (PD) in a power system component is a sever threat, indicating a high likelihood of the imminent and complete failure of the insulation. The reliability of partial discharge diagnostics depends upon the design and accuracy of the measuring sensors. In this paper the Rogowski coil is employed as a PD measuring sensor. The selection of suitable geometrical parameters has been identified as an important aspect regarding the proper operation and installation of the coil around the under test power component. These parameters significantly affect the measuring performance of the coil in terms of its sensitivity and bandwidth. The measurement performance of different geometrical designs for the high frequency Rogowski coils is evaluated. The variation in parameters such as core and coil diameter, diameter of the copper wire used for winding and number of turns, has been experimentally investigated. In addition the return winding, as a non-conventional method of creating a return loop for the Rogowski coil, is compared with a return wire (loop) to analyze sensor performance. The comparative study of variation in mechanical design features provides a brief guideline to select the optimal design of the coil. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.