Hybrid Optoelectronic Sensor for Current and Temperature Monitoring in Overhead Transmission Lines

This letter describes the development of a hybrid optoelectronic current and temperature sensor for evaluating the sag of conductors in high voltage transmission lines. This 4 kg portable current transformer was developed using alternative materials to the heavy items that constitute a conventional transformer: iron core, copper coil and insulating ceramics. The system uses reliably proven electronic technology to measure temperature and current, while using fiber-optic technology to energize the electronic circuitry and transmit the signals back via optical fibers. The data collected, together with the sag information, will provide support for the development of an algorithm for the estimation of conductor-sag values.