Transformers are the crucial devices that have kept our power systems up and running. There are many important parts in the body of a transformer. The core, windings, radiators, etc., are some of the important parts. In addition to all these parts, we should also not forget about the conservator tank of transformer. These are also a vital part of this magnificent machine and we maintain a transformer’s tank if we want to get the best out of them.
Basically, conservator tank of transformer is a cylindrical tank which is usually mounted to the supporting structure in the main tank of the device itself. This part of a transformer is usually connected to the main tank with the help of a short length pipeline. Also, the conservator tank is usually filled with transformer oil.
The primary function of this tank is to offer an adequate space for the expansion of oil inside of the transformer. Conservator tank is an incomprehensible part of transformers as they will simply burst into flames in its absence. This is because conservator tanks plays a vital role in maintaining oil pressure during the full working conditions of the transformer.
Function of conservator tank of transformer
When transformer devices are loaded, there is a sudden rise in the temperature of the device itself. Due to this, there is also an increment in the volume of oil inside of the transformers. Thus, a conservator tank provides enough space for this expansion of oil inside of these machines. In addition, they even act as a storage for the insulating oil inside of a transformer. Therefore, we can say that conservator tanks play a vital part in proper functioning of an electrical transformer
Build of a conservator tank
Conservator tank of transformer is simply a cylindrical tank that is closed from both the sides. A large inspection cover is present on each side of the container to facilitate the cleaning and maintenance inside of the tank. The conservator pipe, which is joined from the transformer’s main tank is inserted in the device from the bottom part of the tank. This pipe is present with a cap as it is designed to prevent any sludge or sediments from entering into the main tank from the conservator vessel.
Usually a silica gel breather-type of fixing pipe is entered in the conservator device from the top. Even if it is entered from the bottom, it has to be inserted above the oil level inside the tank. By arranging the piping in such manner, we can ensure that the oil does not enter the silica gel breather even when the transformer is working at its maximum levels.
How does a conservator tank of transformer work?
By now, we all know that there will be a sudden rise in temperature of transformers once they start working. When this happens, the volume of the insulating oil inside of transformers also expand to greater amounts. The empty space in the conservator tank of transformers are filled b this expanded oil. In addition, the air present in the empty space of the tanks are pushed away through the breather pipes.
Similarly, when the transformer device is switched off or when, when its load is decreased, or when the ambient temperature decreases, the oil inside of the transformer retracts to its original positions before the expansion. Also, the air that was passed out of the silica gel breather pipes are allowed to enter the tank through the same vents and everything remains the same as before. These are the basic principles on which a conservator tank of transformer works. So, we should ensure that all the vital parts of a transformer’s conservator tank is in a top and finely functioning condition.
Oil level in conservator tanks
The thing to remember is that it is not the level of oil in the conservator tank of transformer. In fact, the real matter should be that the tank should not be emptied at any scenario. People who look after the transformers should make sure that there is some oil in the conservator tanks for a secure working of the device and welfare of everyone around.
The oil used in transformer devices also have a very high expansion and compression values. Hence, in higher temperatures, the oil level also expands significantly. Similarly, when the temperature lowers in the transformer device, the oil level also declines accordingly.
What is the ideal oil level in conservator?
Once again, we focus on the point that it isn’t about the level of oil present in the transformer’s conservator. But, it is a fact that the tanks should not be made empty or without any amount of insulation oil inside it. As a matter of fact, the oil level in the conservator tanks of the transformer is not even fixed or constant to this day.
However, there are a few parameters that should be considered and checked while inserting oil in the conservator tanks. At first, the oil temperature of the transformer should be checked. This simply refers to the average value of the oil being used.
The oil that is used should have a desired average value that meets the required standards. The real challenge is maintaining the neutral oil level and avoid any sort of over flow or emptying of oil in the system as there will be rise and decline in working temperatures.
Apart from this, the ambient temperature, solar radiation and transformer loading are also other factors that should be considered.
Practical Considerations when filling the oil
When putting oil in the conservator, it would be beneficial if we maintain the level to the level at it average temperature value. Therefore, practical considerations while filling conservator tank of transformer should have two things. Firstly, it should be ensured that an empty conservator is avoided at all costs. Even is cold temperatures and low load conditions. Another is that over flow of oil should not be allowed to happen when the device is working in full load and hotter conditions.
In this manner, we can make sure that the conservator tank of transformer remains in a top-notch and perfectly running condition. If you have any further questions or enquiries, you can always contact us at BN Mhato Group. Also, feel free to contact us if you need the best transformers in Nepal.