Remote monitoring of disconnector switches using optical fiber
Fiber Bragg grating offers a solution to prevent unnecessary power outages and reduce operating costs

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Accurate indication of a disconnect switch’s status, open or closed, is critical to the safety of power supply systems. Yet, in many substations, visual inspection remains the default verification method, due to the lack of an effective remote monitoring solution. This results in high costs for grid operators, Brazilian utilities alone paid around R$ 40 million in penalties for network unavailability in 2021.

 

A technology developed by hubz addresses this challenge. It uses an optical module installed at the switch contact to measure its movement and determine whether the module is properly closed. The system is based on a fiber Bragg grating network, and can report the condition of the switch to local or remote operators.

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...What does it take to implement this simple and innovative technology?
The first development phase, carried out by hubz in partnership with UFRJ, successfully validated a laboratory prototype at TRL 4 and conducted initial market assessments. The technology was designed with a modular sensor that can be adapted to different switch types and allows for automated, remote monitoring of all switches in a substation.

The next phase focuses on optimizing the modules, running qualification tests in high-voltage labs, deploying the system in a real substation, and conducting field tests.

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...What hubz can deliver for you?​​

Main innovation

Use of fiber Bragg grating optical technology to remotely and precisely monitor the status of disconnect switches in substations.

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Applications and benefits

• Switches in substations, with potential for distribution-level use

• Compliance with real-time monitoring requirements from ONS

• Secure, effective remote monitoring of substation switches

• Enables automation of unattended substations

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Technology readiness level
Targeting TRL 7 through field validation, starting from the current TRL 4.