Portable DTS system for Dynamic Cable Rating (DCR)

1 day ago

1 min read

Neka now offers permanent and temporary DTS monitoring of cable connections 22-420 kV.

Traditionally, cable systems are dimensioned based on conservative assumptions about ambient temperature and operating conditions. The result is often that the actual transmission capacity is significantly higher than what is utilized in practice.

Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) allows temperature to be measured continuously along the entire cable route using optical fiber. This provides a full overview of where heat generation actually occurs and how the cable is affected by load and local conditions.

This information forms the basis for Dynamic Cable Rating (DCR) , where the cable's current carrying capacity is calculated based on real operating conditions rather than static assumptions.

The benefits can be significant:

✅ Increased utilization of existing cable systems

✅ Better insight into thermal bottlenecks

✅ Early warning of abnormal temperature conditions

✅ Reduced need for costly network reinforcements

✅ Improved operational reliability and documentation

For grid companies, industrial companies and power producers, DTS can be an effective tool for freeing up available capacity while continuously monitoring the condition of the facility.

Measure the temperature. Document the margins. Utilize capacity where it actually exists.