At the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), researchers have developed a way to use high voltage currents like lightning to assist in tracking the condition of electrical grid components.
The system designed uses natural transients to gauge the wear and tear on components – similar to the concept of preventive medicine. By monitoring the health of electrical grid components, components can be replaced or fixed before they can cause damage to other equipment. Through testing, the researchers were able to use the data to produce a graphic representation of the system and allow power grid operators to monitor the condition of components.
