PORTABLE SOLUTION FOR PD ASSESSMENT

Introduction:

The Doble micro-AQUILA Partial Discharge (PD) Meter is a portable, battery-powered electrical testing instrument designed to detect, measure, analyze and locate partial discharge activity in medium- and high-voltage insulation systems. Partial discharge (PD) is a localized electrical discharge that occurs within or around an insulation system when the electric field exceeds the local dielectric strength. Although PD does not completely bridge the insulation between conductors, repeated discharge activity can progressively degrade the insulation and may ultimately result in insulation failure, equipment damage, unplanned outages and costly repairs.

The micro-AQUILA provides sensitive and reliable PD measurements for a wide range of high-voltage assets, including power cables, transformers, switchgear, motors, generators, bushings and other electrical equipment. By evaluating parameters such as PD magnitude, discharge repetition and phase-related discharge patterns, the system helps users identify insulation defects and assess the overall condition of high-voltage equipment.

A key feature of the micro-AQUILA is its three-channel, 30 MHz bandwidth Ultra-Wideband (UWB) acquisition system, which enables high-resolution capture of PD signals. Its advanced signal-analysis capabilities, including Time-Frequency (TF) mapping, help distinguish genuine PD activity from external noise and other interference, even under challenging field conditions.

The system also incorporates Cable Fault Location analysis, allowing users to determine the location of PD activity along the length of a cable system. This capability supports more accurate diagnosis of insulation defects and enables maintenance teams to target potential problem areas efficiently.

Powered by PD Pro software, the micro-AQUILA further enhances the testing and diagnostic process through advanced analysis functions, including Automatic PD Classification. This feature assists in identifying and categorizing PD signals, helping users interpret measurement results more efficiently and consistently.

Regular PD testing is an important component of preventive maintenance, condition assessment, quality control, commissioning and asset management. By detecting developing insulation defects at an early stage, the micro-AQUILA helps utilities, manufacturers and service organizations make informed maintenance decisions, reduce the risk of unexpected failures and improve the reliability and service life of medium- and high-voltage assets.

Together, the Doble micro-AQUILA and PD Pro software provide a comprehensive, portable solution for accurate, efficient and reliable on-site partial discharge diagnostics, with particular emphasis on the assessment of medium- and high-voltage cable insulation systems.

Key Features:

• 3-Channel Synchronous Acquisition for simultaneous, high-precision signal measurement.
• 30 MHz UWB Detection with TF Mapping for accurate identification and visualization of partial discharge (PD) activity.
• Advanced PD/Noise Separation to distinguish genuine PD defects from external electrical interference.
• PD Classification for reliable identification and assessment of different types of partial discharge.
• Cable Fault Location capability for precise identification of cable defect locations.
• Battery-Powered, Field-Ready Design enabling portable testing and on-site diagnostics.
• PC-Based Operation with dedicated software for data acquisition, analysis, and reporting.
• Galvanic Isolation combined with an optimized selection of sensors and filters for safe and reliable measurements.
• Online Testing at Any Voltage Level while the equipment remains energized and in service.
• Offline Testing using a 50/60 Hz AC generator for controlled diagnostic testing.
• Ultra-Wideband Technology with fast, integrated signal-processing capabilities for real-time analysis.
• Compact and Lightweight PD Pulse Detector designed for easy transportation and field deployment.
• Wireless and Fiber-Optic Connectivity through Wi-Fi and F/O interfaces.
• Independent Power Supply using a portable power bank, eliminating the need for a dedicated external power source.

Technical Parameters:

Wide Band Acquisition PD channel 

PD Technology UWB - PRPD/TF map 

PD Channels 3 based UWB Channels for active sensors power supply 

Bandwidth 16kH-30MHz, built in UWB filter 

Resolution 10 bit 

Dynamic range 75 dB 

Maximum sampling frequency 100 MS/s 

Input voltage range 1-4000 mVpp 

Input sensitivity < 1.0 mVpp 

Input Impedance 50 Ohm 

Recording time / length 1 μs (min) / 20 μs (max) 

Connectors type BNC

Synchronization channel 

Input voltage range 0.2 - 200 VRMS 

Frequency range 0.1 - 1000 Hz 

Input Impedance 10 MOhm 

Connector type BNC

Connectivity Fiber Optics, Wi-fi

Power Supply By Power Bank or external charger Outputs for accessories 5V (max 5 W) via USB-A

Certifications EN 61326-1 EN 61010-1

Available Models: micro Aquila, Aquila, Spark P2, Spark P3