Non-contact DC voltage detection using electric field sensing

Non-contact voltage detectors are devices used as a hazard indication tool in electrical maintenance and emergency first response industry, however, their operation is limited to AC electric fields. This limitation is the primary motivator for conducting further research into a sensor which is suitable for DC electric fields. This thesis explores the possibility of designing an electrostatic field mill that is able to overcome the limitations. A prototype sensor was designed, and its performance is evaluated for detecting AC and DC electric field in a laboratory setting. It was found that the field mill sensor performs consistently with analytical models. Finally it’s suitability for handheld operation is examined, where some limitations have been found which restrict its usability for some applications.