Bowdens MK10 Rightway Pathfinder
4G Remote Monitoring FPI: Efficient fault management on overhead HV networks!
The Bowdens MK10 Pathfinder is an advanced fault detection device with a 4G, GSM, or GPRS module for remote alarm reporting. Designed to locate repetitive transient faults that cause reclosers to trip, multiple units can be deployed downstream to pinpoint fault locations efficiently. Once a fault occurs, the instruments report alarm status for immediate response.
Building on the success of the MK8, the Bowdens MK10 Pathfinder integrates a 4G modem, allowing alarm messages via 2G, 3G, or 4G networks. A standard SIM card enables communication with up to four mobile numbers or a data platform. When a phase-to-phase or earth fault occurs beyond the instrument‘s location, an alarm message with the date and time is sent, helping engineers narrow down fault locations by analysing reports from multiple devices.
Bowdens MK10 Pathfinder Key Features:
- Remote alarm reporting via 4G, GSM, or GPRS
- Detects and tracks transient and permanent faults
- Portable and easily redeployed for fault isolation
- Up to 10-year battery life with lithium power
- Sends alerts to engineers‘ mobile phones or data platforms
- Identifies faulty cable sections in overhead line (OHL) networks
- Auto battery test and sensitivity selector (14A high, 70A low at 5m below conductors)
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 150 mm x 120 mm x 110 mm (bracket and switches included)
- Weight: 720g (including battery)
- Trip Level: High-14A, Low-70A at 5m (faults above 150MVA). Linear if moved close to the conductors.
- Operating Temperature: -10° to +60°C
- Reset: Manual ON/OFF switch
MK10 Operation and Setup:
The Bowdens MK10 Pathfinder must be mounted vertically at eye level on a pole, approximately 5m below conductors. If no intermediate pole is available, it can be placed mid-span. Upon activation, it sends a status message and performs a battery test. If the black flag does not return, the battery needs replacement.
The instrument uses a ‘Pay as You Go‘ or contract 4G SIM card, requiring at least one message every 60 days for PAYG activation. If reporting to a recognised alarm data platform, a data SIM card is necessary. The most common setup issue is a faulty SIM card—ensure activation, sufficient credit (PAYG), correct registration, and compatibility with SMS messaging.
ALWAYS READ THE DATA SHEET / USER MANUAL BEFORE OPERATION
Fault Detection and Communication:
The Bowdens MK10 Pathfinder continuously monitors overhead lines, detecting faults longer than 50ms to avoid false alarms. When a fault occurs, the black flag flips to red, staying in this state for three hours or until manually reset. Two minutes after tripping, remote communication resets, but the flag remains red. No reset message is sent; manual reset requires switching OFF/ON until the flag returns to black.
Field Deployment:
Deploy multiple Bowdens MK10 Pathfinders along the network to pinpoint faults. If an instrument flags a fault while others do not, the fault lies between the flagged unit and the next non-triggered unit. For cracked insulators, units can be placed closer together to segment the network and isolate the issue efficiently.
MK10 Built for your environment:
Compact and protected: IP65-rated enclosure with no visible antenna
Mounting: Hand-held or pole-mounted with bungee cord/strap
Battery: Lithium Thionyl Chloride, 3.6V, 13Ah (up to 10 years life)
The Bowdens MK10 Pathfinder uses an electro-magnetic sensing circuit like the MK8, detecting both earth and phase-to-phase faults. Sensitivity selection depends on fault location—LOW sensitivity for high fault levels near the source, HIGH sensitivity for remote faults. The unit is securely mounted with a bungee cord or nylon strap and commissioned using a public APN SIM. It must be in commissioning mode to receive setup messages from recognised alarm platforms.