Testing transformers play one of the main roles in the power grid. The requirement for transformer testing is to keep a check on the functioning of the transformer. It also helps in decreasing the chances of transformer failures. Transformer failures may occur due to thermal, electrical or even mechanical factors. With the help of good quality transformer testing equipment , you can boost the life management of your transformer. Read this blog to know more about transformer testing.
What are transformers?
Transformers are devices which transfer electrical energy from one circuit to the other via inductively coupled conductors and these are the coils of a transformer. The varying magnetic flux can be created in the core of the transformer through varied currents in the primary winding. So the varying magnetic field through secondary winding & varying magnetic field induces the voltage in the secondary winding, this effect is known as induction. When the load gets connected to the secondary winding, electrical energy flows to the load via the primary circuit of the transformer.
Why is the testing of transformers needed?
Transformer testing is performed to confirm the performance and specifications of electrical power transformers. The transformer is an integral part of your electrical distribution system. If it does not work properly, then it can have a big impact on the distribution system. It is the reason why various testing procedures are required to be done. Few tests are performed right at the manufacturing location before delivery to consumers. The requirement for proper transformer testing is to have a check on the functioning of the transformer and lessen the chances of failure. It is not only for transformers. Every electrical equipment requires it to be maintained safely from failures.
Transformer failures occur due to thermal, electrical or mechanical factors, Even insulation breakdown may cause transformer failure. If we talk about electrical induced failures in your transformers, then those are caused because of lighting, overvoltage conditioner, partial discharges, switching surges & static electrification. The mechanical-induced failures happen due to some kind of deformation of windings in the transformer which can lead to rupturing or abrasion of paper insulation. Winding deformation occurs usually in transformers at the time of shipping or magnetically induced electromechanical forces. Due to paper insulation of windings, thermal-induced failures happen in transformers and they lose their physical strength and can not withstand mechanical movement which occurs in the transformer. So for all these reasons transformer testing is essential and can be done with transformer testing equipment.
How can transformer testing equipment help?
Transformer testing helps users in numerous ways:
a) The testing checks whether the parts or main components of your electrical transformers are working correctly or not.
b) The testing equipment also helps in keeping a check on the functions of the whole transformer
c) If you use transformer testing equipment , you can lessen the risk of working failure. Thus, you boost the operation of a transformer.
d) Transformer testing confirms the specifications and performance of the transformer.
Different types of transformer testing:
Transformers go through various testing procedures in the manufacturing units:
- Routine transformer testing
Routine testing of transformers is performed to ensure the operational performance of every unit in the production lot. In this test, winding measurement is done, where low voltage & high voltage winding resistance is measured. It measures the insulation resistance of LV and HV windings in accordance with earth and between HV & LV windings.
- Special transformer testing
Special transformer testing is performed according to consumer needs to receive useful information during maintenance or operation of your transformer. In special testing, tests such as short circuit and dielectric tests, measurement of acoustic noise level, and measurement of zero sequence impedance of three-phase transformers are done. These tests can also measure power taken by oil pumps and fans. Perform special testing of transformers with top-quality transformer testing equipment.
- Pre-commissioning transformer test
Testing of transformers which are done before commissioning a transformer on-site is known as a pre-commissioning test. These types of tests check the transformers’ condition after installation. It also helps in the comparison of results with factory tests.
How can you maintain transformers?
Transformers are vital parts of the power system. So, preventive maintenance is necessary. It is time-saving and cost-effective. If any kind of failure occurs in the transformer, then that can affect the complete system. Maintenance can be easily done through oil level checking. Even dissolved gas analysis can be performed. You can eliminate dirt and dust through the filtration process.
So, transformer testing is necessary to avoid the risk of transformer failure. These tests are considered a big step to enhancing the life management of your transformer. Select the right and good quality transformer testing equipment which can offer precise measurement of the transformer’s health. Contact one of the leading transformer testing equipment suppliers in the Middle East and GCC region.
