Not just distribution transformers, but transformers in general is one of the most crucial devices which facilitates our entire power systems to run smoothly. People usually tend to underestimate these valuable machines and what an important role it plays in ensuring proper running of our daily tasks in our modern societies. Due to the lack of knowledge about them, people in Nepal usually face a lot of problems that occur in transformers, usually distribution transformers which are installed near the homes and workplaces. It isn’t just that people have been troubled by the problems that arise because of improper maintenance, but we Nepalese people have not been able to get all the benefit of distribution transformers.
And the answer of the question that is in the title of this article is plain and simple yes. Just like all transformers, distribution transformers are also a type of static device. Because of this, these valuable devices require less attention and maintenance compared to most electrical devices. However one should not be mistaken that just because they don’t need much maintenance, does not mean that they can be used recklessly and without any proper management. It is vital that to achieve a long life and get all the benefit of distribution transformers, periodic inspection and diagnostics is a part that just can’t be ignored.
Even though distribution transformers are durable and heavy duty devices, some sort of maintenance and inspection is a must to avoid any sort of unwanted breakdown or damages. Just a minimal inspection at certain intervals will be enough, and constant checking is not needed. As we already discussed earlier, these machines are the heart of any power network. Hence enhancing the capacity, ensuring maximum availability and maintenance is a matter to think about if we are to reap the benefit of distribution transformers.
Main parameters that define the health of transformers
Among so many things that can be used to check the transformer’s health, there are four main parameters which are more important than the rest. They are:
Paper used for conductor insulation
If you are wondering why paper is used for conductor insulation, the simple answer is that the cellulose paper that are used has outstanding electrical properties making it perfect for isolation. It can also be easily used in transformers and applied to windings. When impregnated with oil, it gives good electric and thermal properties which makes it a good insulating material. Apart from that, the paper is cheap, durable and also is widely available. Hence, checking paper is vital to get the most benefit of distribution transformers.
Pressboard used for the major insulation
Pressboards used in insulation is produced from pure unbleached cellulose. Due to its high chemical purity, mechanical strength, and optimum oil impregnability, pressboards are popularly used in power and distribution transformers as a insulation material. They are an important part of our transformers and checking how well the pressboard is doing cannot be forgotten during inspection, if we are to reap the maximum benefit of distribution transformers.
Winding support
All transformers have coils called windings which are wrapped around a core. Transformers operate when a source of voltage is connected to one of the windings and load device is connected to the other. The winding connected to the source is called primary winding and the other one is called secondary winding. These windings are used interchangeably according to the need of the system. Hence, we can say that windings are one of the most important part of a transformer device. Hence, we cannot ignore windings during inspection, if we are to get the most benefit of distribution transformers.
Transformer oil
The oil used in transformers is a special type of oil which has excellent electrical insulating properties and is stable at high temperatures. It is used in oil filled electrical transformers to insulate, stop arching and corona discharge, and also to dissipate heat of the transformer i.e. use as a coolant. Transformer oil is also used to protect the device’s core and windings. Hence, it is crucial to check the level of oil in a transformer during inspection.
Regular parameter reading of transformer is important. The regular data reading of various parameters is very important for maintenance of transformers. The deviations in regular readings is even an effective way to find out a fault that is slowly forming. By conducting regular readings, we can prevent any potential damages and reap full benefit of distribution transformers installed near us.
A basic checklist should be made to properly check a transformer. The temperature of the transformer is one of the first things you should check. The temperature of various part transformer should be conservator tank, OLTC tank, radiator etc. The oil levels and oil leaks should also be checked and maintained. The supporting system silica gel, cooling fan, control heater, etc. should also be checked as they offer cooling. The load tap charger must also not be forgotten along with checking for any loose or displaced parts. And even though it is the basics, we should not forget to check for any cracks or burns in the system. If we don’t forget to check for these things during inspection, we will be able to maintain longevity and get the most benefit of distribution transformers.
As per the international standards, the maximum temperature permitted for oil in transformers is 90 degree Celsius and max limit for hottest point is 110 degree Celsius. The silica gel, which absorbs the moisture from air maintains safety in transformer should also be checked. Color of the gel changes when it can’t observe moisture and this should be noticed during inspections. Some fault in the transformer system can even be identified when we notice some sort of abnormal noise coming from the transformer.
With all these vital information, now you will agree that proper and timely inspection is needed to get maximum benefit of distribution transformers. Also, here at BN Mahto Group, we offer the finest distribution transformers in Nepal. So feel free to contact us anytime if you are have any inquiries or if you need the finest distribution transformers.