Reliable, cost saving, easy to use
Partial discharge is one of the most important indicators of insulation problems in cable systems and switchgear. The BAUR liona is a portable online PD spot tester designed to measure and locate partial discharges in cables and switchgear during normal mains operation, allowing users to check asset condition without taking equipment offline. BAUR says even a single PD spot test can assess system condition in just a few minutes, while trend analyses can support longer-term maintenance planning.
One of the biggest advantages of the BAUR liona is that it supports online partial discharge testing during normal network operation. This is important because conventional cable diagnostics often require the cable route to be switched off, which can involve significant effort, operational disruption, and cost. BAUR positions liona as a practical way to identify potential problem areas early, reduce unnecessary maintenance work, and focus resources only where more detailed diagnostics or repairs are truly needed.
The liona is designed to make partial discharge testing both accessible and reliable. BAUR highlights automatic PD detection and the DeCIFer® algorithm, which is used to distinguish noise signals from actual partial discharges. BAUR also says this technology is based on a large database of measurement results, helping the instrument deliver meaningful results even in electrically noisy environments. This is especially valuable for field users who need quick answers without relying on lengthy manual interpretation.
Another key benefit is flexibility. BAUR says the liona can be used on medium- and high-voltage cables, supports simultaneous evaluation of four measurement channels, and can also perform continuous monitoring of a cable route for up to 30 days. The data sheet also notes support for 24-hour commissioning testing according to IEC 60840 and for regular monitoring of critical cable routes using permanently installed sensors. This makes the unit useful not only for spot checks, but also for broader condition-based maintenance programs.
For users who need more than spot testing, BAUR offers the optional iPD transponder, which adds online cable length measurement and precise online PD mapping. BAUR says this setup can help locate partial discharge activity and can also be used on cables with cross-bonding joints. The software includes modules for Spot Tester, Mapping, and Cable Length, with operating modes such as PD TEST, Scope, PRPD, and Waveform analysis. This gives users a path from quick screening to more detailed fault investigation.
A major recent development is the VDS-C VDS PD coupler, which BAUR describes as an important new accessory for online diagnostics on medium-voltage cables. According to BAUR, the VDS-C allows partial discharge measurements on cables through switchgear VDS ports without disconnecting the cable route from service. BAUR says this helps operators check cable condition quickly, even on critical routes that would be costly or difficult to take out of operation.
The VDS-C also expands what can be done in practical field diagnostics. BAUR says it enables fast preselection of cables, supports measurements on belted cables, and allows measurements between individual phases. The product page states that measurements can be completed in minutes and that operators can screen 2 to 3 cables per minute in the liona + VDS-C configuration. BAUR also notes that while this spot-test approach is excellent for preselection and condition screening, detailed fault location still requires the iPD transponder with HFCT sensors or offline diagnostics.
From a hardware perspective, the liona is built as a portable field instrument. The BAUR data sheet lists a partial discharge measurement range of 5 pC to 1,000 nC, 4 signal inputs, sampling at 100 MSamples/s, 14-bit resolution, and overvoltage protection up to 500 V. Communication is provided through USB 2.0 and Ethernet. The unit operates from 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz mains or from an internal 12 V, 8 Ah lithium-polymer battery, with a minimum battery life of 3 hours. BAUR lists IP67 protection in the closed state, dimensions of about 550 x 350 x 225 mm, weight of about 13.5 kg, and an operating temperature range of -10°C to +45°C.
The VDS-C accessory is also designed for field convenience. BAUR specifies 3 signal inputs, 3 voltage outputs plus 1 synchronization output, and voltage signal frequency coverage from 100 kHz to 10 MHz. It supports HR, MR, and LRM systems according to IEC 61243-5, and LRM systems according to IEC 62271-213:2021. BAUR lists battery life for the VDS-C at about 24 hours and charging time at about 6 hours, which supports extended use in the field.
Overall, the BAUR liona is a strong solution for utilities, industrial operators, and service teams that need fast and practical online partial discharge diagnostics without unnecessary downtime. With automatic PD detection, DeCIFer®-based evaluation, optional PD mapping with the iPD transponder, and the new VDS-C for diagnostics through switchgear VDS ports, liona supports both quick cable screening and deeper condition assessment for smarter maintenance decisions.
Contact us, we provide you a solution.
