Serbia s underground temperature measurement optical cable

Serbia uses optical fiber-based Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) systems to monitor underground power cables, enabling real-time temperature profiling and hotspot detection.Overview of Optical Cable Temperature MonitoringOptical fiber-based systems, such as DTS, are widely used for monitoring underground transmission and distribution (T&D) cables. These systems embed or attach optical fibers along the cable length to continuously measure temperature with high spatial resolution, often better than 1°C, over distances up to 40 km, extendable to 70 km with long-range systems . The data collected allows operators to detect hotspots, assess cable load, and predict thermal limits in real time, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency .Key TechnologiesDistributed Temperature Sensing (DTS): Provides continuous temperature profiles along the cable, identifying thermal bottlenecks and enabling Real-Time Thermal Rating (RTTR) to optimize current-carrying capacity without exceeding insulation limits .Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS): Detects vibrations and acoustic signals along buried cables, identifying potential faults, third-party intrusions, or mechanical damage .Distributed Temperature & Strain Sensing (DTSS): Combines thermal and mechanical monitoring to detect hotspots, cold spots, and strain, ensuring early identification of cable degradation .Benefits and ApplicationsReal-time monitoring: Continuous assessment of cable temperature and load allows operators to prevent overheating and optimize energy transport .Hotspot detection: Early identification of abnormal thermal behavior prevents insulation degradation and extends cable lifespan .Integration with RTTR software: Enables dynamic cable rating, allowing temporary operation above nominal capacity during peak demand while maintaining safety .Reliability: Optical systems are immune to electromagnetic interference, have no moving parts, and feature long mean time between failures (MTBF), ensuring dependable operation in harsh underground environments .Alternative ApproachesWhile DTS is highly effective, other cost-efficient methods exist, such as NTC thermistor-based systems, which reduce the number of sensor connections and provide accurate thermal assessment for medium-voltage networks . These systems are scalable and suitable for utilities seeking lower-cost solutions without sacrificing monitoring quality.Implementation in SerbiaAlthough specific deployments in Serbia are not detailed in the sources, the country's underground power infrastructure can benefit from these technologies to monitor medium- and high-voltage cables, prevent failures, and optimize maintenance planning. Optical fiber DTS systems, combined with RTTR and machine learning-based thermal analysis, represent the state-of-the-art solution for underground cable monitoring in Serbia and similar regions .