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3 Routine Inspections and Follow TestGuy

Checks for Liquid Filled        

Transformers
By testguy  April 10, 2016  0 Comments
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Transformers are vital

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distribution and are

among the most reliable
components in the
system. The case of the transformer should
always be regarded as energized until

Because a transformer the tank ground connection is

failure is usually of a very
serious nature, requiring
extensive repair and long
inspected and found to be adequate
(OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269(l)(11)). Photo
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downtime, regular preventive maintenance procedures are
the best assurance of continued high reliability.

The following inspections should be made on a routine

basis. The extent and frequency of maintenance should be
based not only on the size or voltage level but also on the
relative importance of the transformer in the system.

Crouse Hinds - Author

Promoted By bbdelectricalm
Safety Considerations

If a transformer is given an external visual

examination, the case of the transformer should be
regarded as energized until the tank ground
connection is inspected and found to be adequate
(OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269(l)(11). The procedures
discussed in this article should only be performed by
personnel qualified to work around energized high What does your name
voltage equipment. Promoted By shindanmaker

1.) Check Liquid Level

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 Test Your
Knowledge
Transformer liquid level gauge indicates the amount of insulating fluid inside the
Sharpen your skills with our
tank. Photo Credit: ebay.
collection of quizzes on
electrical safety,
The core and coils of liquid-filled transformers, as the maintenance & testing of
electrical equipment and
name implies, are immersed in a liquid. This liquid serves
industry standards.
two purposes.
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First, it is an important part of the insulating medium.
Second, it serves to transfer heat away from the windings Study Guide
to be dissipated by the cooling fins, tank surface, or
radiator.

Electrical Testing References

The liquid level should be checked regularly, especially
after a long period of low load at low ambient
temperature, when the level should be at its lowest point.
It is important that liquid be added before the level falls
below the sight glass or bottom reading of the indicator.

The liquid level indicator is calibrated to Temperature

at 25°C at normal operating conditions.
If a transformer is not equipped with a liquid-level Circuit Breaker Control Schematic
Explained
indicator, the liquid level can be checked by removing the
Protective Relay Protection Element
inspection plate on the top of the transformer or by
Tests
removing the top if no inspection plate is available. It is
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Current, voltage, and temperature measurements should
Protective Relaying Terms and
be taken at the time of peak load and the liquid level De nitions
reading at the end of a low-load period. Readings are best
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achieved by means of external metering, observe all safety
precautions. Permanent records should be kept of the
readings for comparison with previous similar conditions.
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Periodic testing of the insulating fluid is recommended by
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taking samples from the tank drain valve.
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2.) Record Temperature Readings terratest-lwd.com

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 Continued operation of a transformer at an over temperature will accelerate
deterioration of the insulating liquid, increasing the risk of failure.

Transformers are rated to carry their nameplate load in

kVA with a given heat rise when the ambient temperature
is at a standard level. For example, a liquid-filled
transformer might be rated to deliver nameplate capacity
with a 65°C (149°F) temperature rise above a 30°C (86°F)
ambient temperature (24-hour average).

Exact temperature rise values are listed on the nameplate.

If the transformer is equipped with temperature gauges,
readings should be taken regularly and recorded.

If the gauge has a maximum-temperature indicator,

readings from both indicators should be recorded, and the
maximum temperature indicator should be reset.
Excessive temperatures indicate an overload or perhaps
some interference with the cooling system.

Continued operation at an over temperature will

accelerate deterioration of the insulating liquid, resulting in
reduced life expectancy of the solid insulation and greatly
increasing the risk of failure. Constant monitoring against
over temperature can be achieved by installing special
alarm contacts on the temperature gauge.

3.) Observe the Pressure/Vacuum

Gauge

Transformer pressure/vacuum gauge indicates the integrity of the sealed tank

construction.

Commonly found on sealed-type transformers,

pressure/vacuum gauges indicate the integrity of the
sealed tank construction. Pressure/vacuum gauges should
be added, whenever feasible, in sealed transformers with
provisions for installing them.

Readings from this gauge should be compared to the

recommendations of the manufacturer for normal
operating ranges. High pressures indicate an overload or
trouble inside the tank and should be investigated
immediately. A sustained zero pressure reading indicates a
leak or a defective gauge.

References

NFPA 70B: Recommended Practice for Electrical

Equipment Maintenance, 2016 Edition

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