Novel, Low-Cost, Non-Contact, High Accuracy Sensor for the Simultaneous, Reliable, Real-time Determination and Monitoring of HV Transmission Line Sag, Temperature, Current, and Ampacity.

Demand for electriciy has grown significantly faster than the transmission system's capability to deliver it reliably. As a result, the system is being operated in a manner for which it was not designed; congestion, blackouts, equipment damage, and system disturbances are becoming widespread, and are occurring with ever increasing frequency, duration, and economic effect. The low-cost monitoring of congested circuits would improve reliability and economic efficiency, increase transmission capacity, relieve congestion, reduce costs to consumers, and decrease operational risks. However, existing real-time transmission line monitoring and dynamic rating systems have total installed costs significantly in excess of $45,000 and $120,000, respectively. This project will develop a non-contact sensor system that will monitor sag, temperature, ampacity, and current in real-time. The measurements will have high accuracy and be communicated wirelessly to end-users. The system will be capable of rapid installation and calibration, with no required outages. Phase I designed, developed, and field-tested prototype non-contact sensors that produced real-time conductor sag and phase current information. Preliminary operating specifications, performance, and total manufactured cost of the device were established. In Phase II, three complete system prototypes will be networked wirelessly at a utility test site, and extensive field tests will be conducted. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The sensor system should enable low-cost, networked, real-time monitoring (and alleviation) of congested paths, thereby maintaining the reliability of electric power delivery. The sensor could help reduce the frequency, extent, and duration of system disturbances (including blackouts) that cause large annual productivity losses. By enhancing transmission capacity and reducing congestion, the public will realize reduced electricity prices. Utilities, transmission organizations, and system operators will benefit from improved grid monitoring and visualization