ICMobserver – PD Monitoring System
State of the art solution for partial discharge monitoring
State of the art solution for partial discharge monitoring
Key Benefits
- Parallel voltage and PD measurement
- Digital signal processing
- The fully parallel PD and voltage measurement allows an instant overview of what is happening within the monitored asset and allows for precise phase comparisons.
- The digital signal processing of the ICMobserver offers flexible adaptation to site conditions allowing for the best-achievable signal-to-noise ratio.
Description
The ICMobserver combines the unmatched quality of the analogue front end of our current PD detectors with the additional features and benefits of the developments in digital signal processing during the last 20 years.
The ICMobserver is a versatile state-of-the-art monitoring system, which combines four devices in one solution: A spectrum analyser, a time domain oscilloscope, voltage measurement, and a PD monitor. With digital signal processing, the spectrum analyser offers a vast range of possible bandwidths. This greatly improves capabilities to deal with an elevated noise-floor that is often inevitable in on-site monitoring conditions.
The built-in time domain oscilloscope together with fully parallel phase-resolved partial discharge patterns (PRPD) on all channels significantly expands the analysis options, so that you will be able to give an in-depth analysis of the condition of the monitored asset.
The modular concept of the hardware and software ensures expandability of the system for future applications, e.g., dissolved gas analysis (DGA) monitoring and temperature and load surveillance providing one data aggregation point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is PD monitoring more and more common for MV and HV assets?
Medium and high voltage (MV/HV) assets—such as power transformers, cable systems, and generators—are critical components of any electrical grid. These assets operate under high electrical stress in compact spaces, making them vulnerable to insulation defects that can lead to major failures, costly damage, and prolonged outages. As the transition to renewable energy and the electrification of transportation and heating/cooling increase demand on these systems, the power industry is simultaneously facing a shortage of qualified engineers and rising costs and lead times for new equipment. Studies show that about half of MV and HV failures stem from insulation-related issues, many of which can be identified early through partial discharge (PD) monitoring. The ICMobserver offers a reliable PD monitoring solution that enables early detection of insulation defects, allowing for timely maintenance and repair planning. This not only extends asset life and prevents breakdowns but also helps optimize limited resources, reduce costs, and improve overall grid reliability and efficiency.
What is the difference between ICMobserver and other PD monitoring instruments?
The ICMobserver combines Power Diagnostix’s 30 years of experience in hardware design with the advantages of digital processing. This combination of an excellent analogue front end, together with the flexibility and analysis options of digital signal processing, yields in an unmatched precision and sensitivity.
Which accessories can be used with the ICMobserver?
The ICMobserver can use the established broad range of PD coupling units, cables, and other accessories from Megger PD Aachen to cover most of the possible monitoring situations. Additionally, PD sensors from other suppliers, which are already installed on existing assets, can typically be integrated with the ICMobserver for simple retrofit.
Does the system support external inputs and outputs?
Yes, the ICM Observer supports:4 analogue inputs for monitoring environmental conditions (e.g., temperature).4 analogue outputs for external alarms or other monitoring systems.
What types of assets can the ICM Observer monitor?
The ICM Observer is versatile and can monitor various high-voltage assets, including: Power transformers Rotating machines such as motors and generators Cable terminations
What accessories are required for installation?
The system is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including bushing adapters, bushing coupling units, coupling capacitors, UHF sensors, pre-amplifiers, and DAkkS-certified calibration impulse generators. These can be tailored to your specific monitoring environment.
Is the ICM Observer scalable for future needs?
Absolutely. The system's modular structure allows for customisation and integration of additional features like DGA and load monitoring, ensuring it evolves alongside your operational requirements. Additionally, the software interface can be used to configure and monitor multiple assets from one platform (fleet monitoring).
Does the ICM Observer require regular maintenance?
The ICM Observer and accessories are designed to be maintenance-free.
