- Transmission Lines & Substations Overview
- Commercialized EPRI Transmission & Substations Technology
2010 Research Offerings
2009 Research Summaries
- Overhead Transmission – Program 35 (PDF 290KB)
- Underground Transmission – Program 36 (PDF 138KB)
- Increased Transmission Capacity – Program 38 (PDF 240KB)
- High-Voltage Direct Current Systems – Program 162 (PDF 154KB)
- Substations – Program 37 (PDF 362KB)
Commercialized EPRI Transmission & Substations Technology
PowerPAC
Detection and location of Electrical and Thermal Faults in transformers. Acoustic Emission location, noise reduction and risk assessment technology.
Aerial Patrol Software System
Aerial Patrol Software System (APSS) merges Global Positioning System (GPS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies to allow aerial inspectors to efficiently record the results of their inspections. Utility-customizable lists of inspection record attributes (i.e. components, defects, priorities, locations, etc) drive large buttons which are easy to select while in flight. Global Positioning System functionality selects the nearest structure automatically, while the Geographic Information System component provides mapping and structure selection functionality. Aerial Patrol Software System requires an ArcGIS Engine 9.2 license, purchased either from the distributor or directly from Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI).
Antenna Array Signal Characterization
EPRI-developed algorithms for signal classification within the substation Antenna Array.
Transmission Inspection and Maintenance System
Software (TIMs)
A hand held field computer base which is used by field personnel to record conditions observed during on transmission line field inspections. The data is collected and tracked by a server that creates reports and interfaces with the work order management system. The tool has been adapted by some users for distribution inspection.
Conductor Cleaning Tool
This tool is used clean the aluminum conductor strands of transmission and distribution overhead conductors prior to the installation of a compression connector. By cleaning the conductor effectively the reliability of the connector is increased. The tool utilizes a specially developed solution which cleans the Aluminum Strands together with vibration. The tool has been developed to address all aluminum conductors including Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR) and Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported (ACSS) type conductors.
The Water-in-Paper (WIP) algorithm in the Transformer Moisture Monitor (TMM)
The Water-in-Paper algorithm in the Transformer Moisture Monitor software developed under EPRI (through Monash as the contractor).
Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer (EMAT)
Inspection Device
The Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer device is an inspection tool for the detection of broken strands in conductors of overhead lines. Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer was developed using the concept of electromagnetic wave signatures. It generates, transmits, and receives electromagnetic waves that allow linemen to readily identify broken conductor strands, without having to disassemble the suspension clamp or hardware.
Continuous On-line Transformer Oil Purification, Dry-Out, Degassing and Life Extension
EPRI-developed materials for on-line transformer oil regeneration
Magnetostrictive and Cylindrical Guided Wave Technology to Assess Anchor Rods
These field inspection technologies utilize mechanical guided waves to assess the below grade condition of anchor rods. Mechanical waves are injected into the anchor rods and the reflections measured. Based on the reflections, a determination is made as to the below grade condition of the anchor rod.
SF6 Decomposition by-product analyzer
EPRI-developed SF6 detector that quickly and accurately quantified SF6 by-products using only a small volume of SF6.
Sagometer
The Video Sagometer is a device for monitoring the sag of overhead conductors, usually for the purpose of real-time rating. It was developed and patented by EPRI, with EDM as a prime contractor. EDM has since commercialized the device, and EPRI receives a royalty for each sale.
DayCor
Corona and arcing activity may occur at numerous points on transmission, substation and distribution networks. This activity may result in audible noise or Radio Interference, or may indicate a defective component. The ability to identify the location and visually pin point the faulty component has been the desire of the power industry. In June 2000 the first DayCor MK II was provided to EPRI and funders for evaluation
Smart Ground Multimeter (SGM)
The Smart Ground Multimeter was developed with EPRI funding for accurate measurement of grounding system impedance of substations and other industrial facilities. The Smart Ground Multimeter underwent three major redesigns since its original development in the early 1980s and has evolved into a sophisticated and powerful testing device. The true value of the Smart Ground Multimeter is its capability to perform a ground grid audit of electric power installations while the installation remains fully energized.The Smart Ground Multimeter consists of the main measuring instrument, an assortment of connecting leads and ground rods, and a stand-alone calibrator.