Importance

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Abstract

State of a high voltage capacitor is monitored to detect partial discharge within the capacitor and approaching end-of-life of the capacitor. Partial discharge may be detected through an increased capacitance of the capacitor, and the resulting increase in the alternating current through the capacitor. Partial discharge may also be detected by presence of high frequency components in the current. Moreover, partial discharge may be detected through an increase in the internal pressure of the capacitor. When partial discharge is detected, a warning is generated, and the capacitor may be replaced in response to the warning. Periodic or random checks of the capacitor state, as indicated by the current or pressure, may also be performed. Warnings may be, for example, visual and/or audio, and may be transmitted to remote locations by radio frequency, infrared signals, or via power lines.

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First Claim