Review of the Calibration for Partial Discharge Detectors by Electromagnetic and Acoustic Methods

Partial discharge (PD) measurements play a significant role as a non-destructive diagnostic method in detecting potential insulation defects for the electrical power apparatus. This paper introduces a laboratory calibration method for PD detector based on electromagnetic or acoustic measurement. By comparing IEC 62487 and technical specification, dB or mV is more appropriate than pC as the unit in calibration. Generally, standard electric or acoustic field at certain frequency band is required as the standard value for calibration. All the standard equipment applied is established for the purpose. By analyzing the current research status and engineering practice, it’s obvious that the laboratory calibration have promising prospect for product quality control.