PD Detector faqs

1. What is a PD Detector?

A PD Detector is a portable instrument used to detect, locate, and assess partial discharge activity in electrical insulation systems-especially in switchgear, cables, transformers, and motors. It helps quickly identify insulation deterioration without shutting down equipment.

2. What is the purpose of a PD Detector?

Early detection of insulation defects

Preventive maintenance and fault prediction

Quick scanning of switchgear, joints, terminations, etc.

Safety assurance before equipment failure

3. Where are PD Detectors used?

MV/LV switchgear panels

Cable joints and terminations

Power transformers (bushings, tap changers)

Motors and generators

GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear)

4. What types of PD Detectors are there?

5. How does a PD Detector work?

It senses electrical, acoustic, or electromagnetic emissions from PD activity, using:

TEV sensors for internal discharge in metal-clad gear

Ultrasound sensors for external PD and corona

UHF sensors for GIS or high-speed activity

IR sensors or cameras (optional) to locate hotspots

6. What are key features to look for in a PD Detector?

Multi-sensor capability (TEV + Ultrasonic)

Live signal strength display

Phase-resolved PD analysis (optional)

Built-in camera or tagging system

Data logging or report generation

Wireless or Bluetooth connectivity

7. Can PD Detectors be used on energized equipment?

Yes - most PD detectors are designed for online use, meaning:

No shutdown required

Safe, contactless or non-invasive testing

Ideal for live switchgear, cables, and terminations

8. What are limitations of PD Detectors?

Only detects surface or accessible PD

Cannot classify defect types as precisely as lab-grade analyzers

Environmental noise (electrical or acoustic) may interfere

Not suitable for detailed PD pattern analysis or PRPD plots

9. How are PD Detector readings interpreted?

TEV readings: >20 dBμV may indicate internal PD

Ultrasonic level: >40 dB indicates active PD

Combined high readings: Strong evidence of defect
Manufacturers provide severity thresholds for decision-making.

10. What brands manufacture reliable PD Detectors?

We Wuhan UHV company has been specializing in the production and manufacturing of frequency series resonance devices for 21 years. We operate a modern intelligent factory covering over 4000 square meters, equipped with more than 100 automated production, manufacturing, assembly, and testing machines. We have obtained CE certification and currently serve the over the word customers .

If you are looking for PD Detectors manufacturers and suppliers, please feel free to contact us for high quality and good price, we have various types of tester for sales to solve your problems.

11. What are best practices for using a PD Detector?

Perform scanning in low-noise environments

Repeat readings from various locations

Compare with historical or baseline data

Tag locations for follow-up with offline PD analysis

Use headphones with ultrasonic detectors to pinpoint PD

12. How do PD Detectors support condition-based maintenance?

They enable:

Routine non-invasive inspections

Asset health ranking for switchgear panels

Targeted maintenance rather than time-based service

Failure prevention through early detection

13. Are PD Detectors suitable for cable testing?

Only partially:

Cable joints and terminations can be tested

Full-length PD location in cables requires:

HFCT sensors

Time-domain PD test systems or

TDR-based PD analyzers

14. Can PD Detectors generate reports?

Yes - advanced PD detectors allow:

Saving readings and trends

Tagging assets by name or ID

Exporting test data via USB/Bluetooth

Generating PDF/CSV reports for audit or recordkeeping

15. Do I need training to use a PD Detector?

Basic units are user-friendly, but:

Understanding PD signals

Recognizing environmental interference

Making proper condition assessments
all require some technical training, especially for substation or critical asset inspections.