Articles
SAFETY TRANSFORMER
Extraordinary care is prime concern while operating with transformers
that require user protection against electrical hazards.
Transformer is required to be reliably consistent as it forms
an essential element of distribution of transmission systems.
Internal faults like partial discharges can occur any time and
if left uncorrected, they can ultimately morph into ruinous faults
that resulting in power outages and even end-user property damage.
Comprehensive safety of transformer is usually ensured with an
internal and thermal fuse established inside the transformer that
becomes an open circuit when the preset temperature has exceeded
the marked level as the preset temperature is considered to be
the maximum safe temperature.
There are various parameters for detection of developing faults
in a transformer. The core parts of any transformer that required
to be monitored are the moving parts such as on-load tap changers,
moisture content and static charge in oil, insulation quality,
temperature of oil, various levels of power load, function of
cooling fans, moisture levels and winding temperatures.
Supervising the windings and insulation systems for gas-in-oil
and partial discharge are very important; the load monitoring
and temperature on the other hand is considered as root information
and is invariably incorporated in any category of transformer
monitoring though, the most of defects caused failures are of
reversible mode.
The causes of on-load tap changers failures are generally found
in mechanical faults with bearings, shafts and drive structures,
springs, burnt transition resistors, and insulation problems.
It is to remember that the mechanism of transformers is very crucial
and they are equally important for us to be very careful in handling
them and any misusage of it can cause disaster.