Qualitrol Multifunctional Disturbance Fault Recording Device
What is Power System Monitoring?
Power systems are crucial networks comprised of transformers, generators, and distribution networks that supply power to businesses and homes. These systems are continuously developing and becoming more dynamic, and the need to monitor them is essential. Power system monitoring is the process of continuously surveying and analyzing power systems to ensure they run efficiently, reliably, and safely by identifying potential problems and managing them before they develop into serious problems. This blog post will look at power system monitoring and the benefits it provides.
Components of Power System Monitors
Power system monitors are used in situations where power failure could have serious consequences. They are made up of several components, including sensors and metering devices, a communication infrastructure, and a data management system, that all work together to improve energy efficiency and prevent unplanned downtime.
With power system monitoring, managers can access information such as how power is distributed, peak and non-peak usage times, and when and where problems may arise, including lags, surges, and temporary changes.
Sensors and meters
A power monitoring system requires at least two interconnected discrete metering points to record data. These are available in a range of sizes and complexities depending on their intended application. Typically, these meters must measure current, energy usage, real and reactive power, and voltage, but more advanced meters offer disturbance detection, flicker detection, and more.
Sensors are also used for various measurements, such as fluid levels, gas, moisture, and temperatures. However, electrical sensors can be used instead of meters to measure current and voltage.
Communication infrastructure
Communication infrastructure is necessary as it assists communication between all components in a monitoring system. It enables real-time communication on power usage and potential problems in a specified system, which is used to ensure an accurate and reliable power supply.
Data management systems
Data management systems require software to obtain, transfer and analyze data from the implemented meters and sensors. Once data has been analyzed, it can be displayed to the user to assist in appropriate decision-making.
In the future, further developments will be made as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) expands and becomes integrated into our systems, as well as advances in sensor technology. These three aspects create numerous opportunities to enhance current power system monitors in terms of accuracy and reliability.
What are the Benefits of Power System Monitoring?
There are numerous benefits to power system monitoring, with a strong emphasis on providing a safe and efficient power supply to homes, businesses, and organizations. Other benefits include the following:
- Early detection of system failures
- Improved power quality
- Optimization of power system operations
- Enhanced reliability and security
Power system monitoring helps to identify errors or inefficiencies within a power system, makes the most of sustainable energy, and can prevent unplanned downtime, which is costly in many ways.
Qualitrol
Qualitrol provides a wide range of monitors, sensors, and software for real-time analysis of power operations. Our equipment is used across the world’s energy grid to provide in-depth information on compliance, equipment performance, and risks.
Contact a member of Qualitrol today for more information about how our products can avoid costly equipment failures and enhance your services.
References
- https://ietresearch.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1049/iet-smt.2019.0103#:~:text=Accordingly%2C%20the%20required%20sensors%20can,and%20finally%20the%20PD%20sensors.