Single Mode Fiber Optic Sensor For High Currents
Abstract
We are developing a pulsed current sensor that will be less intrusive than present sensors and that we hope will remain linear to much higher current levels. Polarized laser light is transmitted by a low-birefringence, single mode optical fiber that encircles the current carrier. We observe the Faraday rotation of the polarization plane in the current-induced magnetic field, We have measured a Verdet constant of about 260 /MA for 633 nm light in Lightwave Technologies, Inc., Model F1506C fiber, and we have detected currents of up to 12 MA in pulses 0.5 to 40 micro s long. Our major problems have involved signal noise from stray plasma light getting into the fiber and shock-induced birefringence that rotates the polarization slightly. Future plans are to try a Sagnac interferometer to reduce the sensitivity to shock waves.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA638464
Entities
People
- Bruce L. Freeman
- Don R. Kania
- Eugene L. Zimmermann
- Lynn R. Veeser
- Peter J. Kruse
- Robert J. Trainor
- Robert S. Caird
Organizations
- Los Alamos National Laboratory