MVD Assessment Works

PT INDONESIA CHEMICAL ALUMINA | Tayan, Kalimantan Barat

2025

Project Overview

In February 2025, PT Elbema Integra Indonesia conducted a 7-day inspection and condition assessment of 56 Medium Voltage Distribution (MVD) panels at PT Indonesia Chemical Alumina’s facility in Tayan, West Kalimantan. The inspection was carried out using the Partial Discharge Scan (PD Scan) method as part of a predictive maintenance strategy to prevent potential electrical failures. PD Scan is a non-invasive diagnostic technology that detects partial discharge activity within panel insulation systems, all without the need to shut down operations ensuring uninterrupted production.

The Partial Discharge Scan (PD Scan) is a non-invasive diagnostic method used to detect micro electrical discharges (partial discharge) within medium and high voltage electrical systems. Partial discharge occurs when insulation begins to degrade locally, allowing minor electrical arcs to form between conductors or from conductor to ground. While these discharges do not immediately cause system failure, they are early indicators of insulation breakdown and can eventually lead to major faults or electrical fires if left unaddressed.

PD Scan operates by capturing the electromagnetic, acoustic, or transient signals emitted by these discharges. The inspection is performed externally without opening the panel or shutting down the system making it both efficient and safe for operating environments. PD scanning equipment typically uses TEV (Transient Earth Voltage) sensors to detect discharges occurring inside metallic enclosures, and ultrasonic sensors to detect PD activity within internal compartments.

This method allows technicians to identify the type of partial discharge (e.g., corona, internal, or surface tracking), indicative location of the discharge source, and severity level, based on signal amplitude and frequency characteristics The collected data is analyzed and classified to recommend further action whether it be cleaning, tightening, insulating reinforcement, or preemptive replacement before critical failures occur. PD Scan thus plays a crucial role in condition based maintenance, offering precise and early insight into the electrical health of power distribution systems.

Using specialized scanning equipment, Elbema’s technicians inspected critical points such as cable joints, terminations, and internal panel components. The electromagnetic or acoustic signals captured during the inspection were analyzed to identify insulation degradation or early-stage defects. All activities were performed by certified personnel under strict safety protocols. The findings were documented in a technical report to support informed maintenance planning. This project reflects PT Elbema’s strong commitment to enhancing the reliability of industrial power systems through modern, condition-based inspection techniques.