Key research themes
1. How can diagnostic and condition monitoring techniques effectively assess and predict the aging and degradation of Metal Oxide Surge Arresters (MOSAs) in power distribution networks?
This research area focuses on developing and refining multiple diagnostic methods to monitor the health, performance, and remaining lifespan of MOSAs. Effective condition monitoring is critical due to MOSAs' role in protecting power systems from overvoltages caused by lightning and switching. Understanding degradation mechanisms through diagnostics like leakage current, partial discharge, thermal imaging, and frequency response analysis supports preventive maintenance and reduces unplanned outages.
2. What are the optimal surge arrester design and allocation strategies to enhance overvoltage protection and system reliability in power distribution networks?
This theme investigates methods to optimize the placement, coordination, and design of surge arresters within electrical distribution systems to maximize equipment protection, minimize outages, and balance economic constraints. Techniques range from genetic algorithms for arrester placement to modeling electromagnetic transient phenomena and transient energy absorption, aiming to improve surge arrester coordination with system components and overvoltage scenarios.
3. How do external environmental and operational factors, including lightning activity and electromagnetic pulses, impact the performance and selection of surge arresters in power systems?
This research theme examines the influence of external factors such as lightning parameters, transient electromagnetic pulses, radiation fields, and environmental stresses on surge arrester performance and system protection strategies. Understanding these effects is vital for accurate arrester rating, insulation coordination, and ensuring reliability in environments with complex transient phenomena.