Ubiquitous Low-Cost Wireless Sensors for Power Line Monitoring

79301S The operation and control of power lines is of strategic importance to the electric utility sector and to the nation as a whole. Power grids are complex networks of distribution cables, which are fairly remotely located, and are also susceptible to environmental and man-made events; therefore, their monitoring infrastructure must be reliable and effective. Furthermore, when energy demands reach near peak capacity, efficient delivery of electricity is crucial. This project will develop power line sensors and a passive wireless sensor system to monitor the conductor current and conductor temperature of electrical power lines. The sensors will be low cost, able to survive harsh environments, and deployable without interruption of power service. The state of the sensor can be remotely interrogated and the conductor performance can be continuously monitored. Phase I will design and fabricate passive wireless sensors suitable for power-line monitoring. The sensors will consist of planar inductors and multi-layer capacitors to measure conductor current and conductor temperature. Phase II will involve magnetic and electric characterization, laboratory testing, signal conditioning, and wireless radio frequency (RF) interrogation. Field testing with a local utility will take place during Phase II. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The use of sensors to monitor transmission and distribution systems, with data efficiently retrieved on local system components, will increase reliability and power quality. The system should allow for the correction of problems in the transmission and distribution system before they occur, through continuous monitoring of system status.