Simulation and Experimentation of a Grounding Network Detection Scheme Based on a Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Method

Abstract

The grounding network is a significant component of substations, and the corrosion of its ground resistance is predominantly detected using the electromagnetic method. However, the application of electromagnetic methods for detecting corrosion within earthing networks has received relatively limited attention in research. Currently, the prevailing method utilizes electromagnetic techniques to identify the breakage points within the given earthing network. In this study, we propose a corrosion detection method for grounding networks based on the low-frequency electromagnetic method, which measures the resistance value between individual nodes of the network. Specifically, an excitation source signal of a predetermined frequency was transmitted to the measurement segment of the grounding network, which facilitated the direct measurement of the strength of the induced magnetic field above the center of the measuring conductor. The recorded electromagnetic data were subsequently uploaded to the host computer for data processing, and the computer interface was constructed based on a LABVIEW design. By leveraging the relationship between the induced electric potential, current strength, excitation source strength, and additional voltage detection devices, the resistance of the conductor under examination could be determined. Furthermore, the proposed method was tested under suitable conditions, and it demonstrated favorable results. Thus, the proposed method can serve as a foundation for developing electromagnetic testing instruments tailored to the investigated grounding network.