FOTEMPTrafo for smart grid temperature sensing in transformer

OPTOcon AG: Power plants and grids are stretched to their limits. To ensure the operational safety, critical factors such as "Hot-Spots" inside high voltage transformers, power factor correction capacitors and alternators are monitored. Other possible capabilities are temperature measurement on high voltage distribution power lines such as for electric trains or in gas isolated power breakers and in power factor adjustment capacitors. Under such difficult and harsh environments conventional measurement systems can not guarantee a reliable temperature monitoring.  An elegant and robust solution provides the FOTEMPTrafo by Optocon AG.

The fiber optic thermometer FOTEMPTrafo is available with 1-8 measurement channels. The compact unit size and the height-adjustable DIN-rail-clip provide an easy installation in the cabinet. A wide selection of interfaces makes the communication even easier. The choices are: RS-232, RS485, Profibus and Modbus that ensure an optimal connection. A fast measurement speed of 250ms per channel allows the direct detection of overloads. The wide measurement range from -200°C to +300°C with an accuracy of ± 0.2K makes the FOTEMPTrafo an ideal partner for all transformer applications. Through the use of gallium arsenide (GaAs) no recalibration is necessary throughout the product life time.

There is also a wide range of accessories for the safe installation of sensors on the tank walls, windings or bus bars available. This way optic feedthroughs, tank wall plates and covers can be used for the assembly.

The probes used for measuring the temperature are so designed that they have a perfect impregnation against dielectric oils and other liquids.  The outer jacket of the fiber optic temperature sensors is made out of teflon, at the sensor tip a GaAs-crystal (gallium arsenide) is attached. The probe sensor is completely non-conductive. Optocon’s fiber optic sensors offer complete immunity to RF and microwave radiation with high temperature operating capability, intrinsic safety, and non-invasive use. They do not contain any components which create sparks and lead to explosions. Therefore they can be used safely in hazardous areas. They are also completely immune against RFI, EMI, NMR and microwave radiation.

The Optocon AG develops since 1993 measurement devices for fiber optic temperature measurement and fiber optic temperature sensors. In 20 years of business experience, the focus of the company is to provide customers with innovative and individual solutions for their fiber optic measurement projects. From the office in Dresden Optocon AG has established itself internationally and delivers products anywhere in the world.