ELECTRIC POWER RESEARCH INSTITUTE, INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150185145 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EVALUATING POWER TRANSMISSION CONDUCTORS - An apparatus and method for evaluating power transmission conductors is disclosed. The apparatus is configured to evaluate a charged power transmission conductor at a distance and includes a telescope assembly configured to transmit light to the conductor and receive a reflected light, in response to the transmitted light, from the conductor. The apparatus further includes control electronics configured to analyze the reflected light and determine a ratio based on two pre-determined frequencies, wherein the ratio is correlated with levels of iron oxide corrosion to confirm the presence of oxides that have leached through strands of the conductor. | 07-02-2015 |
20150185133 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSESSING SUBGRADE CORROSION - An apparatus and method for assessing subgrade corrosion is disclosed. The apparatus is configured to assess soil corrosivity and subgrade corrosion of a structure without disturbing the site where the structure resides and includes a probe having a plurality of electrodes and sensors configured to conduct environmental and corrosion measurements at the site, and a controller having a potentiostat contained therein to determine a corrosion rate at the site, wherein the corrosion rate provides an indicator of the amount of corrosion of the structure over time. | 07-02-2015 |
20150183330 | MODULAR RECONFIGURABLE MEDIUM VOLTAGE TRANSFORMER FOR DATA CENTERS, VOLT/VAR CONTROL, AC AND DC CHARGING, AND VEHICLE-TO-GRID APPLICATIONS - A modular reconfigurable medium voltage transformer configured for data centers, VOLT/VAR control, AC and DC charging, and vehicle-to-grid applications is disclosed. The modular reconfigurable transformer includes a plurality of modules configured to be connected to or disconnected from each other to provide multiple transformer configurations. Each of the modules are configured for bi-directional or uni-directional power flow to allow the transformer to provide power from a power source to an application or from the application back to the power source | 07-02-2015 |
20150159886 | HEAT PUMP WATER HEATER AND METHOD - A heat pump water heater and method is disclosed. The heat pump water heater includes a stratified water tank configured to hold water of different temperatures therein and a heat exchange unit. The heat exchange unit includes a pump configured to remove water from a bottom of the stratified tank, a heat pump having a condenser configured to receive the water from the pump and supply heat to the water flowing through the condenser such that the condenser heats the water to a pre-determined temperature, and a resistance heater configured to receive the heated water from the condenser. The resistance heater supplies additional heat to the water if the pre-determined temperature of the water exiting the condenser does not equal or exceed a pre-determined set-point. The heated water from the resistance heater is supplied to a top of the stratified tank for use by a residence or utility. | 06-11-2015 |
20150051847 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANOMALY DETECTION - A system and method for anomaly detection is provided. The system ( | 02-19-2015 |
20140151117 | Electrical Contact Conductivity Via Surface Doping - An electrical connector for connecting electrical power transmission lines is provided. The electrical connector is capable of conducting 1×10 | 06-05-2014 |
20140141242 | TWO LAYER COATING FOR FIBERGLASS TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION COMPONENTS - A composite component having a two layer protective coating is disclosed. The composite component is adapted for use in the power transmission industry and includes a fiberglass inner core, a pliable first coating layer applied to the fiberglass core, and a hard second coating layer applied to the first coating layer. | 05-22-2014 |
20140074411 | INSULATOR INSPECTION APPARATUS AND METHOD - An insulator inspection tool and method for identifying defects or conditions that may prevent the insulator from performing properly is disclosed. The apparatus includes a launcher adapted to launch a projectile towards an insulator being tested, a listening device adapted to receive a response signal from the insulator upon being struck by the projectile, and a processing device adapted to measure the response signal received by the listening device and process the response signal to determine whether the insulator contains any defects or conditions. | 03-13-2014 |
20140071592 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MONITORING SUBSTATION DISCONNECTS AND TRANSMISSION LINE SWITCHES - An apparatus and method for continuously monitoring substation disconnects and transmission line switches to detect improper closing of the disconnects or switches is disclosed. The method includes the step of providing an apparatus adapted to measure, process, and transmit data associated with a disconnect or switch. The method further includes the steps of positioning the apparatus on or in close proximity to the disconnect or switch, using the apparatus to collect data of the disconnect or switch and processing the data for transmission to a remote receiver, and transmitting the processed data to a remote receiver. | 03-13-2014 |
20130335727 | System And Method For Post-Tensioned Tendon Monitoring - A system and method for post-tensioned tendon monitoring includes at least one optical sensor arranged in monitoring proximity to a post-tensioned tendon, a test instrument in communication with the optical sensor, and a processor capable of managing operation of the test instrument, a storage device and a display. The system and method further include a database adapted to contain sensor baseline information and sensor measurement data. The test instrument is capable of sending a first wavelength to the optical sensor and receiving a second wavelength from the optical sensor, wherein at least one of the instrument or the processor is configured to analyze the second wavelength and output sensor measurement data for storage in the database. The processor is configured to calculate an amount of tensile loading which exists in the post-tensioned tendon, based on the sensor measurement data and the sensor baseline data, and to provide an output. | 12-19-2013 |
20130294566 | CONTROL ROD DRIVE (CRD) TUBES, METHOD OF MANUFACTURE, AND INSTALLATION THEREOF - A control rod drive (CRD) tube, its manufacture, and installation in a pressurized water reactor (PWR) is disclosed. The control rod drive tube includes a tube body adapted to penetrate an aperture in the RPV head and an offset flange formed around a circumference of the tube body at a predetermined location along its length. The offset flange increases circumferentially from a first point along the circumference of the tube body to a second point along the circumference of the tube body. | 11-07-2013 |
20130255730 | CONDUCTOR CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A conductor cleaning system for cleaning aluminum strands of all aluminum and steel reinforced conductors, such as ACSS, ACSR, ACAR, and AAA. The conductor cleaning system having a container adapted to receive a portion of a conductor to be cleaned, a housing adapted to receive and support the container, and a cleaning solution contained in the container for cleaning the portion of the conductor. The cleaning solution being adapted to clean the conductor without reacting with or damaging the conductor. | 10-03-2013 |
20130255726 | CONDUCTOR CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A conductor cleaning system for cleaning aluminum strands of all aluminum and steel reinforced conductors, such as ACSS, ACSR, ACAR, and AAA. The conductor cleaning system having a container adapted to receive a portion of a conductor to be cleaned, a housing adapted to receive and support the container, and a cleaning solution contained in the container for cleaning the portion of the conductor. The cleaning solution being adapted to clean the conductor without reacting with or damaging the conductor. | 10-03-2013 |
20130255488 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RAPID ADSORPTION-DESORPTION CO2 CAPTURE - An apparatus for capture and sequestration of CO | 10-03-2013 |
20130214736 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR HARVESTING POWER FROM AN OVERHEAD TRANSMISSION CONDUCTOR - An apparatus and method of harvesting power for charging batteries of a robot traversing an overhead transmission conductor is disclosed. The apparatus is adapted to harvest power from the overhead transmission conductor and provide a DC voltage for charging a battery and includes a first shield wire bonded to a structure that is grounded to the earth, a second shield wire isolated from the structure, and a charging station. The first shield wire, second shield wire, structure, and earth form a loop into which induced currents flow. The charging station is electrically connected to the second shield wire and adapted to convert induced currents flowing along the second shield wire into a DC voltage for charging a battery of the charging station. | 08-22-2013 |
20130208760 | Method For Measuring Electrical Conductor Temperature - A method for measuring the temperature of an electrical conductor, the method comprising (a) providing a clamp comprising a flexible, thermally conductive material in thermal contact with the electrical conductor, wherein the clamp has an outer surface of a known emissivity value, or a coating of a known emissivity value is disposed on the outer surface of the clamp and (b) measuring the infrared (IR) temperature of the clamp to determine the temperature of the electrical conductor. | 08-15-2013 |
20130169286 | LEAKAGE CURRENT SENSOR FOR POST TYPE INSULATOR - A sensor apparatus for detecting leakage current in a post-type insulator of an electrical power system includes: a sensor unit having a housing, the sensor unit including: a sensor assembly operable to generate an analog signal proportional to a received leakage current; an electronics module operable to covert the analog signal to a digital value; and a communications system operable to wirelessly transmit the digital value to an external receiver; a collection band adapted to be connected to an exterior surface of the insulator; and a transfer lead interconnecting the sensor assembly and the collection band, the transfer lead operable to transfer leakage current from the insulator from the collection band to the sensor assembly. | 07-04-2013 |
20130169285 | LEAKAGE CURRENT SENSOR FOR SUSPENSION TYPE INSULATOR - A sensor apparatus for detecting leakage current in a suspension-type insulator of an electrical power system is disclosed. The sensor apparatus includes a housing having a leakage current sensor contained therein, a door pivotally connected to the housing and adapted to move between an open position where a grounded end fitting of the insulator is received by the sensor apparatus and a closed position, and a clamping mechanism connected to the housing. The leakage current sensor is adapted to detect a leakage current along the insulator. The clamping mechanism is adapted to clamp the sensor apparatus to the grounded end fitting of the insulator. | 07-04-2013 |
20130167615 | APPARATUS AND METHOD OF VIBRATION TESTING FOR MANUFACTURING DEFECT DETECTION IN COMPOSITE INSULATORS - The present application relates to an apparatus and method for detecting defects in composite insulators used in power systems. The apparatus includes a test frame, a hydraulic cylinder connected to a first end of the test frame for imparting a load on a composite insulator, a hammer for imparting excitations into the composite insulator, and a data collection device for collecting frequency responses traveling in the composite insulator as a result of the hammer striking the insulator. The composite insulator is secured between the hydraulic cylinder and a second end of the test frame. | 07-04-2013 |
20130145819 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING GASEOUS HYDROGEN CONCENTRATIONS IN A MECHANICAL VACUUM PUMP GAS STREAM OF A BWR - An apparatus adapted to measure gaseous hydrogen concentrations in a mechanical vacuum pump (MVP) gas stream includes connection ports adapted to allow the apparatus to be connected to an MVP system and allow a gas stream sample to be taken from the MVP gas stream. The apparatus further includes a hydrogen concentration analyzer to measure H | 06-13-2013 |
20130134935 | MEDIUM VOLTAGE STAND ALONE DC FAST CHARGER - An apparatus for DC fast charging of an electric vehicle includes an active front end AC-DC converter and an isolated DC-DC converter. The active front end AC-DC converter is adapted to rectify a medium voltage alternating current (AC) from a utility grid to a high voltage direct current (DC). The isolated DC-DC converter is adapted to transform the high voltage DC to a low voltage DC for charging the electric vehicle. | 05-30-2013 |
20130122317 | Nanocrystalline Interlayer Coating For Increasing Service Life Of Thermal Barrier Coating on High Temperature Components - A coated substrate including a substrate having a surface, a bond coat proximate to the substrate surface, a yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ) thermal barrier layer opposite the substrate surface, and at least one interlayer disposed between the bond coat and the thermal barrier layer, wherein the interlayer contains an alloy having a nanocrystalline grain structure. A method for coating a substrate to be exposed to high in service temperatures and/or temperature cycles including depositing a bond coating on substrate surface, depositing at least one nanocrystalline interlayer on the bond coat opposite the substrate surface, and depositing a yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ) thermal barrier coating on the nanocrystalline interlayer opposite the bond coat, wherein the service life of the YSZ thermal barrier coating is extended relative to a substrate coated with the bond coating and the thermal barrier without the interlayer disposed therebetween. | 05-16-2013 |
20130121868 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A WELD-FREE APPARATUS FOR CONNECTION OF DISSIMILAR METALS USING FUNCTIONALLY GRADED COMPOSITIONALLY CONTROL POWDER METALLURGY AND HOT ISOSTATIC PROCESSING METHODS - A method of manufacturing a weld-free apparatus for use in the connection of dissimilar metals includes the steps of providing a mold designed to replicate a reverse of the apparatus, introducing a low alloy, ferritic steel composition atomized powder into a first portion of the mold, introducing a series of atomized powders incrementally into a second portion of the mold to form a transition region between the ferritic steel composition and an austenitic stainless steel composition, and introducing an austenitic stainless steel composition atomized powder into a third portion of the mold. The method further includes the step of consolidating and melting the atomized powders in a high temperature, high pressure inert gas atmosphere to form the apparatus. | 05-16-2013 |
20130118192 | USE OF ADSORPTION OR ABSORPTION TECHNOLOGIES FOR THERMAL-ELECTRIC POWER PLANT COOLING - A hybrid cooling system adapted to provide cooling to a thermal-electric power plant includes an air-cooled condenser (ACC) adapted to provide cooling water to the thermal-electric power plant and a vapor absorption/adsorption refrigerant system (VARS) adapted to provide cooled air to the ACC. The cooled air is used by the ACC to condense steam to produce the cooling water. | 05-16-2013 |
20130082753 | APPLICATION OF PHASE-LOCKED LOOP (PLL) IN OSCILLATION MONITORING FOR INTERCONNECTED POWER SYSTEMS - The present invention relates to a method for accurately detecting oscillations and improving stability of power systems. The method includes the steps of providing a phase-locked loop having a phase detector, a loop filter, and a number-controlled oscillator. The method further includes the steps of extracting an input signal from the power system, using the phase-locked loop to track the frequency and phase of a targeted mode in the input signal, and creating a locally generated reference signal to fit the input signal and to allow the input signal's modal information to be obtained. The method further includes the step of performing mode shape analysis utilizing the reference phase signals constructed from the tracked frequencies. | 04-04-2013 |
20130081486 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INSPECTION OF TUBES IN A BOILER - An apparatus and method for inspection of tubes in a boiler is disclosed. The apparatus includes a sensor adapted to generate and detect guided-waves and a mechanical device adapted to reach into a tube bundle and clamp the sensor onto an interior tube selected for inspection. The mechanical device includes a housing adapted to contain the sensor and an air cylinder adapted to actuate the housing to allow the housing to clamp onto the interior tube. | 04-04-2013 |
20130075942 | QUALITY CONTROL OF CONCRETE VIBRATION - An apparatus and method of controlling concrete vibration is disclosed. The apparatus includes a global positioning sensor adapted to provide a location of a vibrator relative to a concrete structure, a recording device adapted to record data during vibration of the concrete, and a data transmission device adapted to transmit the data to a processor for analysis of the data to determine if the vibration is in compliance. The vibrator is adapted to vibrate the concrete to remove air contained therein and promote concrete consolidation. | 03-28-2013 |
20130043881 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING HIGH RISK NON-CERAMIC INSULATORS (NCI) WITH CONDUCTIVE OR HIGH PERMITTIVITY DEFECTS - An apparatus and method for identifying the presence of high conductivity or permittivity conditions in a wide range of electrically insulating materials is disclosed. The apparatus includes a grounded enclosure containing electronics for controlling measurement and communication processes and first and second spaced-apart electrode assemblies for engaging an insulator to be tested. The first and second electrode assemblies are mounted in the enclosure for linear movement such that pressing of the first and second electrodes against an insulator causes the electronics to initiate a measurement. | 02-21-2013 |
20130042706 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR INSPECTING HIGH VOLTAGE INSULATORS - An inspection apparatus for inspecting high voltage insulators is disclosed. The inspection apparatus includes a first platform having first and second linkages, at least one outer gripping mechanism having first and second arms extending outwardly from the first platform, a second slidable platform adapted to slide along the first and second linkages, and at least one inner gripping mechanism having third and fourth arms extending outwardly from the second slidable platform. The outer and inner gripping mechanisms are adapted to move between an open position where the insulator is received by the outer and inner gripping mechanisms and a closed position where the outer and inner gripping mechanisms engage the insulator. | 02-21-2013 |
20130022078 | Overhead Conductor Sensor - An overhead conductor sensor for measuring various parameters that affect an overhead conductor is disclosed. The overhead conductor sensor includes an electronics housing having first and second opposing ends, a jaw assembly having a first jaw connected to the first end of the electronics housing and a second jaw pivotally attached to the first jaw to allow the jaw assembly to move between an open position for receiving an overhead conductor therein and a closed position for securing the sensor to the overhead conductor, and a thermocouple assembly electrically connected to electronics housed in the electronics housing and extending through the jaw assembly for engagement with the overhead conductor. The thermocouple assembly is adapted to measure a temperature of the overhead conductor. | 01-24-2013 |
20120322664 | Transportable Rapid Deployment Superconducting Transformer - A transformer including: a transformer housing having an interior, a superconducting wire winding disposed within the housing interior, a dry dielectric medium in contact with a superconducting wire winding, and a temperature control device in heat exchange communication with the dry dielectric medium, adapted to utilize a gaseous medium for controlling the temperature of the superconducting wire winding. | 12-20-2012 |
20120301344 | METHOD OF USING POWDER METALLURGY FABRICATION FOR MANUFACTURING INTEGRAL HEADER AND TUBE REPLACEMENT SECTIONS - A method of manufacturing integral head and tube replacement sections includes the steps of providing a reverse mold of a head and tube replacement section, providing an atomized steel powder, and filling the reverse mold with the atomized steel powder. The method further includes the step of inserting the mold into a hot isostatic processing (HIP) furnace to consolidate and sinter the powder into the shape of the head and tube replacement section. | 11-29-2012 |
20120300210 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ON-LINE, REAL-TIME ANALYSIS OF CHEMICAL GASES DISSOLVED IN TRANSFORMER OIL - An inspection probe for directly measuring a transmission spectrum of a solvent oil in a transformer includes a tube having a plurality of apertures spaced along a side of the tube to allow oil to pass therethrough, and first and second optical collimators disposed at opposing ends of the tube. The first and second collimators are aligned by the tube such that incident light is transmitted through the first collimator, the tube, and the second collimator to a spectrometer | 11-29-2012 |
20120299603 | ON-LINE MONITORING SYSTEM OF INSULATION LOSSES FOR UNDERGROUND POWER CABLES - A monitoring system adapted to assess insulation losses of an underground power cable includes a cable circuit having first and second, spaced-apart terminals. The cable circuit is disposed along a section of the underground power cable. The system further includes a communications device adapted to transmit data gathered at the first and second terminals, and a processor adapted to receive and process the data measured at the same time with the synchronization device and transmitted from the communications device. | 11-29-2012 |
20120299288 | FUNCTIONALLY GRADED COMPOSITIONAL CONTROL METHODS TO ELIMINATE DISSIMILAR METAL WELDS (DMWs) DURING MANUFACTURE OF INTEGRAL HEADERS - A method of manufacturing a header assembly having a header section and a tube section includes the steps of providing a reverse mold of the header assembly, forming the header section by filling a header section of the reverse mold with an atomized low alloy steel powder, and forming the tube section. The tube section is formed by filling a first portion of a tube section with an atomized low alloy steel powder, forming a transition region by filling a second portion of the tube section with a series of atomized steel powders incrementally from a low alloy steel to an austenitic stainless steel, and filling a third portion of the tube section with an atomized austenitic stainless steel powder. The method further includes the step of consolidating and melting the atomized powders in a high temperature, high pressure atmosphere. | 11-29-2012 |
20120282564 | METHODS FOR REDUCING NOx IN SCR FOSSIL-FUEL FIRED BOILERS - A method for reducing NO | 11-08-2012 |
20120279238 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING FROST ON A HEAT TRANSFER DEVICE - A method for controlling frost on a heat transfer device includes the steps of providing an air flow device adapted to provide a stream of air at a high flow rate, and using the air flow device to subject a heat transfer device to the stream of air during frosting times. The stream of air interacts with the heat transfer device to remove water droplets disposed on the heat transfer device, thereby preventing frost from accumulating on the heat transfer device. | 11-08-2012 |
20120271501 | UNDERGROUND UTILITY VAULT INSPECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - An underground utility vault inspection system and method includes a pre-defined railway installed in an underground utility vault, and an inspection vehicle adapted to traverse the railway to provide inspection results to inspection personnel. The inspection vehicle includes inspection tools for inspecting underground power lines and equipment, recording inspection results, and transmitting the inspection results to the inspection personnel. | 10-25-2012 |
20120247330 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RAPID ADSORPTION-DESORPTION CO2 CAPTURE - An apparatus for capture and sequestration of CO | 10-04-2012 |
20120228202 | SYSTEM FOR EXCLUDING AQUATIC ORGANISMS AND TRANSFER BACK TO A SOURCE WATERBODY - An aquatic organism removal system includes a screen system and a return system. The screen system is adapted to separate aquatic organisms from cooling water entering a cooling water intake of a power producing facility and includes a screen intake and a screen exit downstream of the screen intake. The return system is connected to the screen exit and is adapted to receive the aquatic organisms and transfer the aquatic organisms safely to a source waterbody. When the cooling water and aquatic organisms enter the screen intake, the cooling water flows through the screen system and into the cooling water intake of a power producing facility and the aquatic organisms flow out the screen exit and into the return system. | 09-13-2012 |
20120184796 | CAPTURE, REMOVAL, AND STORAGE OF RADIOACTIVE SPECIES IN AN AQUEOUS SOLUTION - The present invention relates to a method of capturing radioactive species in an aqueous solution and removing the radioactive species for disposal. The method includes the steps of providing a macroporous bead form sequestration resin, subjecting the bead form sequestration resin to radioactive species contained in the aqueous solution to allow the bead form sequestration resin to capture the radioactive species; and disposing the radioactive species in a radioactive storage facility. | 07-19-2012 |
20120183115 | LIGHT WATER REACTOR PRIMARY COOLANT ACTIVITY CLEANUP - A method for the cleanup of ionic species such as cobalt and nickel in nuclear power plant aqueous streams using a sequestration resin material is disclosed herein. The method includes the steps of providing a sequestration resin for removal of radioisotopes of transition metal impurities contained in the plant process streams, and distributing the sequestration resin into the plant process streams such that the sequestration resin interacts with the process streams and removes the transition metal impurities. | 07-19-2012 |
20120157556 | SYNTHESIS OF SEQUESTRATION RESINS FOR WATER TREATMENT IN LIGHT WATER REACTORS - An organic synthesis of materials to achieve removal of low molecular weight ionic species, such as transition metal ions including cobalt, iron, nickel, and zinc, from aqueous solutions. The synthesis includes the steps of providing a cation exchange resin, functionalizing the cation exchange resin using a chloride intermediate to form a sulfonyl chloride resin, and reacting a multi-amine based ligand with the sulfonyl chloride resin to form a sequestration resin. The synthesis further includes the steps of cooling the sequestration resin, and washing and drying the sequestration resin. | 06-21-2012 |
20120123602 | APPLICATION OF PHASOR MEASUREMENT UNITS (PMU) FOR CONTROLLED SYSTEM SEPARATION - This invention relates to a PMU-based controlled system separation method to protect against a catastrophic blackout. The method includes the steps of performing an offline analysis of an electrical transmission network to partition generators into a number of coherent groups, performing online monitoring of the transmission network to determine a separation interface and frequencies and damping ratios of dominant inter-area modes, and estimating the risk of system separation to perform real-time control. | 05-17-2012 |
20120088949 | Ion Exchange Regeneration and Nuclide Specific Selective Processes - A method of processing ion exchange resin radioactive waste, wherein the radioactive waste contains a plurality of fractions of radioactive waste based on density, which may include cation resin waste and anion resin waste, wherein at least one of the plurality of fractions comprises a total concentration of at least one radionuclide, including performing at least one of the following operations (i), (ii) or (iii): (i) separating the at least one of the plurality of fractions from the radioactive waste utilizing a moving freeboard; (ii) separating the radioactive waste into cation resin waste and anion resin waste; or (iii) removing at least a portion of the total concentration of the at least one radionuclide from: the radioactive waste; the at least one of the plurality of fractions separated by the moving freeboard; or at least one of the radioactive waste, the cation resin waste or the anion resin waste. | 04-12-2012 |
20120044079 | MEASURMENT BASED VOLTAGE STABILITY MONITORING AND CONTROL - A measurement base voltage stability monitoring and control scheme having a means for measuring current and voltage phasors at a boundary bus of a load center; and an equivalent network having a fictitious bus with an aggregate load representative of all loads of the load center. The scheme further includes a computing device to calculate a voltage stability margin index based on the aggregate load of the fictitious bus and compare the voltage stability margin index to a pre-set threshold. The computing device causes an action to take place based on the comparison between the voltage stability margin index and the pre-set threshold. | 02-23-2012 |
20120041612 | EMERGENCY FREQUENCY LOAD SHEDDING SCHEME - A load shedding system and method for controlling imbalances in a power system includes a signal generator adapted to generate a signal representative of a local system, and a modifying circuit adapted to adjust set frequencies. The system also includes a processing circuit adapted to process data received from the signal generator and modifying circuit and set load shedding priorities for the local system based on the processed data. | 02-16-2012 |
20120041611 | MEASURMENT BASED VOLTAGE STABILITY MONITORING AND CONTROL - A measurement base voltage stability monitoring and control scheme having a means for measuring current and voltage phasors at a boundary bus of a load center; and an equivalent network having a fictitious bus with an aggregate load representative of all loads of the load center. The scheme further includes a computing device to calculate a voltage stability margin index based on the aggregate load of the fictitious bus and compare the voltage stability margin index to a pre-set threshold. The computing device causes an action to take place based on the comparison between the voltage stability margin index and the pre-set threshold. | 02-16-2012 |
20110273917 | INTELLIGENT PHOTOVOLTAIC INTERFACE AND SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a photo-voltaic interface for integration of photo-voltaic modules in a power system. The photo-voltaic interface includes a power conversion system adapted to convert power to a pre-determined voltage and current type, a control and monitoring system adapted to allow monitoring and control of power flow to optimize grid operation, and a communications system adapted to allow remote monitoring of the photo-voltaic interface to detect defective components. | 11-10-2011 |
20110254534 | NON-CONTACT ARC DETECTION APPARATUS AND METHOD - The present invention relates to a non-contact arc detection, recognition, and warning apparatus for the detection of arcing in an electrical system. The apparatus includes an electric field detector having first and second electric field sensors adapted to sense electric fields; a magnetic field detector having a multi-axis magnetic field sensor adapted to detect a magnetic field; and a digital signal processor. The digital signal processor compares and enhances signals obtained from the electric field detector and the magnetic field detector and creates a response to alert a user of the presence of arcing. | 10-20-2011 |
20110196536 | LINE INSPECTION ROBOT AND SYSTEM - The present invention relates to an overhead transmission line inspection robot and system for inspecting transmission line components and right of way conditions. The line inspection robot includes at least one drive system for propelling the robot along a line, a platform adapted to pivot relative to the at least one drive system, and a control system adapted to control the robot. | 08-11-2011 |
20110196535 | LINE INSPECTION ROBOT AND SYSTEM - The present invention relates to an overhead transmission line inspection robot and system for inspecting transmission line components and right of way conditions. The overhead transmission line inspection robot includes a communications and control system adapted to control the robot and transmit information and a drive system for propelling the robot along a shield wire to enable inspection over a large area. The robot further includes a camera adapted to inspect right of way and component conditions; a light detection and ranging (LiDar) sensor adapted to measure conductor position, vegetation, and nearby structures; and a global positioning system adapted to identify the robot's position and speed. | 08-11-2011 |
20110194986 | SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION (SCR) REACTOR ASSEMBLY TO REMOVE FINE PARTICLES FROM POISONING OR INTERFERING WITH SCR CATALYST ACTIVITY IN BIOMASS FUEL APPLICATIONS - The present invention relates to a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) reactor assembly for removing fine particles that interfere with SCR catalyst activity in biomass fuel applications. The selective catalytic reduction (SCR) reactor assembly includes at least one turning vane disposed in a plenum chamber of the reactor, at least one rectifier layer disposed downstream of the at least one turning vane, and at least one active catalyst layer for removing particulate matter. The turning vane is adapted to impart a directional turn to the flue gas flowing through the reactor, and the at least one rectifier ensures even flow distribution. | 08-11-2011 |
20110192315 | LINE INSPECTION ROBOT AND SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a diverter system to allow a line inspection robot to traverse an object. The diverter system includes a first diverter attached to a shield wire, a second diverter attached to the shield wire at a position spaced from the first diverter, and a bridge having a first end connected to the first diverter and a second end connected to the second diverter. The first diverter disengages the robot from the shield wire and onto the bridge and the second diverter disengages the robot from the bridge and onto the shield wire to allow the robot to traverse the object. | 08-11-2011 |
20110156723 | NON-CONTACTING METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING CONTACT VOLTAGE SOURCES AND PROVIDING A WARNING FOR SAME - This invention relates to non-contact measurement methods and an apparatus for the identification of hazardous contact voltages on energized objects and surfaces. The apparatus includes an electric field sensor structured to sense an electric field and a gain amplifier electrically connected to the electric field sensor to amplify electric signals from the electric field sensor. The apparatus further includes a signal conditioning circuit adapted to process the amplified electric signals and form time-coordinated signals and a digital signal processor adapted to evaluate the time-coordinated signals and provide a user with a status of a contact voltage source by activating an appropriate status indicator. | 06-30-2011 |
20110111132 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DEPOSITING COATINGS ON INNER SURFACE OF TUBULAR STRUCTURE - A system and method for depositing coatings on an inner surface of a tubular structure includes at least one pump for creating and maintaining a vacuum in the tubular structure, a meshed electrode adapted to be positioned in a center of the tubular structure, and a biased voltage power supply connected to the meshed electrode. The biased voltage power supply is adapted to apply a negative voltage to the meshed electrode such that the negative voltage causes a hollow cathode discharge inside the meshed electrode. The creation of the hollow cathode discharge causes ions to be drawn out of a mesh on the meshed electrode and accelerate onto an inner surface of the tubular structure, thereby coating the inner surface with a desired coating. | 05-12-2011 |
20110056417 | CATALYST ASH PROTECTOR - A combustion apparatus includes: a combustion device operable to produce flue gas having large particulate ash entrained therein; an outlet duct coupled in flow communication with the combustion device so as to receive the flue gas; a screen positioned at least partially in the outlet duct downstream of the combustion device, the screen effective to trap large particulate ash while permitting flow of the flue gas therethrough; and apparatus operable to remove large particulate ash from the screen while at least a portion of the screen remains inside the duct. | 03-10-2011 |
20110040786 | METHOD OF HANDLING LARGE VOLUMES OF SYNCHROPHASOR MEASURMENTS FOR REAL TIME EVENT REPLAY - A method is provided for handling synchrophasor measurements relating to an electrical power system. The method includes: (a) acquiring a plurality of synchrophasor measurements containing data representing at least one power system event; (b) inserting and storing the event related synchrophasor measurements in a database as a partitioned binary large object (BLOB); (c) reading and transferring the synchrophasor measurements related to a user selected current or historical event from the database to a client computer partition by partition; and (d) processing the event data at the client computer on a partition-by-partition basis such that the client computer will be able to start a replay of the event replay as soon as processing of the first partition of the event BLOB data is completed. | 02-17-2011 |
20110025317 | MsS PROBE FOR GUIDED-WAVE INSPECTION OF FUEL RODS - The present application discloses a magnetostrictive sensor (MsS) probe for guided-wave inspection of the entire length of a fuel rod. The probe includes a waveguide adapted to be clamped to a fuel rod, and an MsS adapted to generate guided waves into the waveguide such that the guided waves propagate down the waveguide into the fuel rod and back to the waveguide for detection by the MsS. | 02-03-2011 |
20110024183 | COAXIAL-TYPE CABLE FOR OVERHEAD TRANSMISSION - This invention relates to an overhead coaxial-type transmission system. The system includes a coaxial-type conductor, a support structure adapted to support the coaxial-type conductor at a pre-determined elevation above the ground, and a conductor support extending downwardly from the horizontal support such that the coaxial-type conductor is secured thereto. The support structure includes a vertical support secured in the ground and a horizontal support secured to and extending outwardly from the vertical support. | 02-03-2011 |
20110016864 | ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM - A compressed air energy storage (CAES) system encompassing direct heating. The compressed air energy storage system includes a compressor for compressing ambient air, an air storage reservoir, and a thermal energy storage system. The air storage reservoir is adapted to store compressed air from the compressor. The thermal energy storage system is adapted to supply heat to the compressed air energy storage system such that the compressed air is heated to increase work production of the compressed air. The thermal energy storage system is heated using off-peak electricity. | 01-27-2011 |
20100300218 | DISPERSANT APPLICATION FOR CLEAN-UP OF RECIRCULATION PATHS OF A POWER PRODUCING FACILITY DURING START-UP - A method for reducing corrosion product transport in a power producing facility. The method includes the steps of selecting a chemical dispersant adapted to reduce the deposition of corrosion products in the recirculation path, and using at least one chemical injector to inject the chemical dispersant into a fluid contained in the recirculation path during recirculation path cleanup to increase corrosion product removal. | 12-02-2010 |
20100285968 | THERMAL CONTRACTION COMPENSATION FOR SUPERCONDUCTING AND CRYO-RESISTIVE CABLES - A method of compensating for thermal contraction of superconducting and cryo-resistive cables. The method includes the steps of determining a compensation length for a cable such that when the cable is subjected to an operating temperature, the cable is in or near a stress-free state, and installing the cable into a pipe such that portions of the cable extend outwardly past ends of the pipe. The method further includes the steps of marking each end of the cable such that the determined compensation length is visibly shown, forcing the cable into the pipe at an ambient installation temperature such that a cable pattern is formed therein, and maintaining the cable in the pipe to prevent the cable from being pushed out of the pipe. | 11-11-2010 |
20100202945 | Method and Apparatus for the Enhanced Removal of Aerosols and Vapor Phase Contaminants from a Gas Stream - The invention provides methods and apparatuses for removing aerosols and, in some cases, vapor phase contaminants, such as mercury, from a gas stream. One method is directed to the removal of additional aerosols from a gas stream from which aerosols have previously been removed by using a screen in combination with a primary aerosol collection device. Another method is directed to the removal of both aerosols and vapor phase contaminants by using a sorbent in combination with a screen. Another method is directed to the removal of vapor phase contaminants by using a catalyst to convert the contaminant to a form that is more easily removed from the gas stream and optionally injecting a chemical to increase the rate of conversion. The invention also provides various apparatuses for use in performing the various methods of the invention. | 08-12-2010 |
20100180921 | CONDUCTOR CLEANING SYSTEM - A conductor cleaning system for cleaning aluminum strands of all aluminum and steel reinforced conductors, such as ACSS, ACSR, ACAR, and AAA. The conductor cleaning system having a container adapted to receive a portion of a conductor to be cleaned, a housing adapted to receive and support the container, and a cleaning solution contained in the container for cleaning the portion of the conductor. The cleaning solution being adapted to clean the conductor without reacting with or damaging the conductor. | 07-22-2010 |
20100180914 | CONDUCTOR CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A conductor cleaning system for cleaning aluminum strands of all aluminum and steel reinforced conductors, such as ACSS, ACSR, ACAR, and AAA. The conductor cleaning system having a container adapted to receive a portion of a conductor to be cleaned, a housing adapted to receive and support the container, and a cleaning solution contained in the container for cleaning the portion of the conductor. The cleaning solution being adapted to clean the conductor without reacting with or damaging the conductor. | 07-22-2010 |
20100085065 | PASSIVE AGENT SYSTEM IMPEDANCE MONITORING STATION AND METHOD - This invention relates to a hybrid passive agent system impedance monitoring station and method. The method of monitoring impedance of an electrical system includes the steps of providing an impedance monitoring station adapted to test and monitor system impedance, solving for system impedance in a time domain, solving for system impedance in a frequency domain, and determining a time domain driving point impedance and a frequency domain driving point impedance to identify the impedance of the system. | 04-08-2010 |
20100076719 | EMMISSIVITY TEST INSTRUMENT FOR OVERHEAD ELECTRICAL TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION - This invention relates to an emissivity test instrument for measuring the emissivity of overhead electric transmission conductors. The emissivity test instrument includes a vacuum chamber, a data acquisition module connected to the vacuum chamber and adapted to receive data therefrom, and a computing device. The vacuum chamber is adapted to seat a test sample therein. The computing device is connected to the data acquisition module and is adapted to perform a test on a test sample and generate a test results report. | 03-25-2010 |
20100057268 | METHOD AND MODEL FOR EVALUATING TRANSMISSION ULTRACAPACITORS IN POWER SYSTEMS - A method and model for evaluating transmission ultracapacitor response in a power system. The method includes the steps of implementing a transmission ultracapacitor model into power system simulation software, simulating a desired condition of a power system, and determining a desired output power of a transmission ultracapacitor to define a control setpoint. The method further includes the steps of determining the transmission ultracapacitor limit, such that the desired output power does not exceed the transmission ultracapacitor limit, responding to the condition by adjusting output according to the control setpoint, and using the output in conjunction with other elements in the power system to determine an overall system response. | 03-04-2010 |
20100027731 | BWR START UP CORROSION PROTECTION - The oxidizing chemistry environment of BWR reactor water is a key factor promoting intergranular stress corrosion cracking of stainless steel and nickel based alloys used in reactor coolant system piping and vessel internals. This is typically mitigated during power operation with hydrogen injection. However, this method is only effective when the reactors are at power. Accordingly, this invention proposes a method of reducing electrochemical corrosion potential during the start-up phase of BWR reactors. The method includes the steps of providing a mitigation additive adapted to reduce electrochemical corrosion of a BWR reactor; and injecting the mitigation additive into the BWR reactor at a predetermined location prior to hydrogen injection coming online. | 02-04-2010 |
20090320678 | Sorbent Filter for the Removal of Vapor Phase Contaminants - Methods and apparatuses are described for removing a contaminant, such as a vaporous trace metal contaminant like mercury, from a gas stream. In one embodiment, a primary particulate collection device that removes particulate matter is used. In this embodiment, a sorbent filter is placed within the housing of the primary particulate collection device, such as an electrostatic precipitator or a baghouse, to adsorb the contaminant of interest. In another embodiment, a sorbent filter is placed within or after a scrubber, such as a wet scrubber, to adsorb the contaminant of interest. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods and apparatuses that can advantageously be retrofit into existing particulate collection equipment. In some embodiments, the invention provides methods and apparatuses that in addition to removal of a contaminant additionally remove particulate matter from a gas stream. | 12-31-2009 |
20090299664 | MEASUREMENT BASED VOLTAGE STABILITY MONITORING AND CONTROL - A measurement base voltage stability monitoring and control scheme having a means for measuring current and voltage phasors at a boundary bus of a load center; and an equivalent network having a fictitious bus with an aggregate load representative of all loads of the load center. The scheme further includes a computing device to calculate a voltage stability margin index based on the aggregate load of the fictitious bus and compare the voltage stability margin index to a pre-set threshold. The computing device causes an action to take place based on the comparison between the voltage stability margin index and the pre-set threshold. | 12-03-2009 |
20090299540 | EMERGENCY FREQUENCY LOAD SHEDDING SCHEME - A load shedding system and method for controlling imbalances in a power system includes a signal generator adapted to generate a signal representative of a local system, and a modifying circuit adapted to adjust set frequencies. The system also includes a processing circuit adapted to process data received from the signal generator and modifying circuit and set load shedding priorities for the local system based on the processed data. | 12-03-2009 |