MICRONOR - Determination of angle and opening speed on high-voltage switches

Determination of angle and opening speed on high-voltage switches

An insert for fiber optic encoders

The isolation of circuits in the high-voltage range is carried out with special high-voltage circuit breakers. It is crucial for the service life and functionality that the actual separation process takes place very quickly and, if possible, without major recoil. But how can this be checked? The high voltages and currents that occur prevent the use of conventional electronics.

The solution lies in the use of fiber optic components that deliver data without interference even in the presence of strong electromagnetic fields. In this particular application, the fiber optic rotary encoders were attached to the hinge of the circuit breakers. The rotary encoders are connected via a fiber optic cable to a controller that both generates the optical signal and converts it into an electrical signal. This is then connected to further processing systems via the quadrature output, for example. The distance between the controller and encoder can be several hundred meters, which means that the controller can be positioned in an EMC-safe area.

Equipped in this way, the angle of rotation can be recorded over time, which means that both the rotational speed and the acceleration of the system can be determined.

Conclusion

Determining the isolating behavior of high-voltage circuit breakers can be carried out safely and trouble-free using fiber optic encoders. Its immunity to strong electromagnetic fields predestines fiber optic technology for such applications.

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