The goal of the project is to provide continuous, distributed temperature monitoring of high-voltage transformers using fiber-optic sensors. This is intended to detect and prevent potential failures at an early stage. At the same time, the data collected will be used to safely increase the load on transformers at certain times, thereby making their operation more efficient.
SENTRY
Partner Call open until: 08.05.2026
Project Start: Q2 2026
The reliable operation of high-voltage transformers is critical to the local power supply. To prevent outages early on, the existing condition monitoring system is to be expanded to include distributed, continuous temperature monitoring. This will not only improve monitoring but also enable more efficient use of the transformers, as they can be operated at higher loads for short periods.
Implementation is carried out via a fiber-optic sensor network using commercial TBG fiber sensors and a readout device (interrogator). This technology is particularly well-suited because it is flexible, allows for many measurement points, and is insensitive to electromagnetic interference. The central challenge lies in the robust integration of the sensors into the transformer as well as in the reliable acquisition of meaningful measurement data for monitoring and load optimization.
Expected results
The three most important expected outcomes of the project are:
- Functional fiber-optic sensor network
- Development and successful deployment of a distributed temperature monitoring system for high-voltage transformers based on fiber-optic sensor technology and interrogator technology.
- Improved condition monitoring and data set
- Acquisition of high-resolution, continuous, and interference-resistant temperature data, enabling a significantly more precise assessment of the transformer’s condition.
- Foundation for optimized operation (load management)
- Development of a robust database to safely operate transformers closer to their thermal limits, thereby enabling more efficient and flexible grid utilization.
