Ensuring the reliability of medium-voltage cable networks has never been more important.
As critical infrastructure, these cables form the backbone of modern power distribution. They connect substations to local transformer stations and ultimately deliver energy to homes, industries, and cities. Any failure within this network can lead to significant outages, operational disruptions, and high costs.
To address these challenges, b2 electronics has developed the PDTD68, a next-generation high-voltage test set designed to make cable diagnostics simpler, faster, and more reliable than ever before. By combining advanced Partial Discharge (PD) measurement and Tan Delta (TD) diagnostics into a single compact system, the PDTD68 sets a new standard in efficient medium-voltage cable testing.
The Importance of Advanced Cable Diagnostics
Traditional testing methods, such as simple withstand voltage testing, give only limited insight into the condition of cable insulation. They confirm whether a cable withstands a certain voltage level but do not reveal underlying weaknesses that may lead to future failures. This is where modern diagnostic techniques come into play.
The PDTD68 enables early detection of insulation defects such as aging-related degradation in XLPE insulation, water treeing, moisture ingress, and installation defects. These insights allow operators to plan maintenance and prevent unexpected outages.
In addition, PD and TD diagnostics are essential tools for:
- Quality assurance after cable installation or repair
- Condition-based maintenance strategies
- Acceptance testing of newly installed cable systems
Simultaneous PD and TD Measurement – A Key Advantage
A key feature of the PDTD68 is the ability to perform simultaneous partial discharge and tan delta measurements. Traditionally, these diagnostic tests are carried out sequentially, requiring multiple test cycles and repeated high-voltage stress on the cable. This approach is not only time-consuming but can also influence the test results due to conditioning effects on the insulation.
PDTD68 eliminates this limitation by enabling parallel measurement, offering several key benefits:
- Significant time savings during field testing
- Reduced stress on the cable system
- Improved diagnostic accuracy and consistency
- Streamlined workflows for test engineers
The integrated tan delta measurement provides a global assessment of insulation condition, while the partial discharge analysis offers localized insights into defects such as joints, terminations, and specific cable sections. Together, they deliver a comprehensive picture of cable health in a single test sequence.
Designed for Real-World Field Applications
The PDTD68 is engineered with a strong focus on usability and efficiency in demanding field environments. It has a simple and safe test setup. A key design principle of this diagnostics system is simplicity. The test setup is intentionally minimized to high-voltage connection, ground connection and optical data link to the control PC.
The optical fiber connection ensures galvanic isolation, providing enhanced safety for the operator and eliminating interference caused by ground loops or electromagnetic noise. Communication with the VLF generator is handled wirelessly via Bluetooth, removing the need for additional cables and reducing setup complexity.
The result is a clean, fast, and safe measurement environment, even in confined or challenging locations.
Maximum Portability and Flexibility
Mobility is essential for field diagnostics, and the PDTD68 delivers.
The entire system, including all necessary accessories, fits into a single rugged transport case, allowing easy transport and rapid deployment. Its compact design (approx. 300 × 300 × 600 mm) and manageable weight (below 19 kg without battery) make it ideal for remote locations, urban substations with limited space and difficult-to-access installations.
The device can be positioned close to the test object, ensuring optimal PD signal sensitivity and measurement accuracy.
High-Precision Measurement Technology
The PDTD68 incorporates advanced measurement technology to deliver high sensitivity and reliable results.
Partial Discharge Measurement
- High coupling capacitance (22 nF) for sensitive signal detection
- Integrated high-voltage filter for optimal noise suppression
- Sampling rate of up to 250 MS/s
- Configurable digital bandwidth filters
This enables precise localization and characterization of PD activity, particularly in cable joints, terminations and transition sections in mixed cable systems
Tan Delta Measurement
- Measurement performed directly at high-voltage level to rule out noise from the earth connection
- Optional compensation of leakage currents from terminations
- Reliable evaluation of insulation aging and moisture effects
The combination of these technologies ensures a comprehensive and detailed diagnosis of the entire cable system.
Seamless Integration with Existing Systems
PDTD68 is not only a standalone solution, it also integrates seamlessly into existing testing setups. It complements systems such as the HVA68TD, adding full diagnostic capabilities. Even VLF generators without built-in TD capability can be upgraded using the PDTD68. All tests (VLF withstand, TD measurement, and PD diagnostics) are performed using a 0.1 Hz sinusoidal voltage, avoiding the need for equipment changes or reconfiguration during testing. This unified approach reduces setup time, minimizes operational risks as well as simplifies workflows for technicians.
Intuitive Software and Automated Reporting
Operated via the proven b2 Suite software, the device offers both manual and fully automated testing modes. Key features include guided measurement workflows, automatic evaluation of accessories and joints based on PD levels, customizable reporting templates as well as comprehensive data visualization and analysis tools. Generation of clear, application-specific test reports is quick and efficient, supporting both technical decision-making and documentation requirements.
Built for Efficiency, Safety, and Performance
Every aspect of the PDTD68 is designed to support efficient, safe, and high-quality testing:
- Minimal cabling reduces setup errors and trip hazards
- Optical communication ensures operator safety
- Compact design enables deployment in tight environments
- Wireless connectivity simplifies handling
- Portable power options increase operational flexibility
Together, these features translate into faster testing, reduced downtime, and lower operational costs.
A Complete Diagnostic Solution up to 68 kV
With a maximum operating voltage of 68 kVpeak, the PDTD68 is ideally suited for medium-voltage cable systems. It represents a powerful addition to the b2 electronics portfolio, closing the gap between testing and advanced diagnostics.
Whether used for preventive maintenance, commissioning and acceptance testing or fault investigation and quality assurance, the PDTD68 delivers reliable, high-quality results in every scenario.
PDTD68 – PD Diagnostics Made Easy
The PDTD68 is more than just a test device. It is a comprehensive diagnostic solution designed to meet the evolving demands of modern power networks.
By combining simultaneous PD and TD measurements, advanced high-voltage testing capabilities, compact and portable design, flexible power supply and intuitive software integration, it enables utilities, service providers, and engineers to take a proactive, data-driven approach to cable management.
The result is improved grid reliability, reduced risk of failures, and optimized maintenance strategies.
All achieved with a system that is as powerful as it is easy to use.
More information: Email: info.india@omicronenergy.com or Website: www.omicronenergy.com
Michael Klee, Product Manager, OMICRON Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
