Transformer monitoring and diagnostics

Oil-filled power transformers constitute a significant asset for any owner and the impact of an unexpected failure or outage can have consequences of enormous proportions. With advances in testing techniques of the insulation system (the oil and paper), by means of detecting the early signs of deterioration of the insulation system it is becoming possible to extend the life of certain units, by continuous on-line monitoring. The need for up to date accurate and detailed information is needed in order to carry out a proper diagnosis and assessment of the health of the unit. This implies the need for regular DGA (dissolved gas-in-oil analysis). The Faraday Transformer Monitoring and Management System (TMMS), Transformer Nursing Unit (TNU) Model has been developed by Syprotec Inc. of Montreal, QC, Canada to meet this requirement. The Faraday TMMS TNU Model is a transportable monitoring system which is designed to be used for temporary intensive monitoring of critical transformers exhibiting failure characteristics, but may not be at the point yet where intrusive inspection is prudent or convenient. The system is designed to provide continuous on-line dissolved gas analysis of all combustible gases as well as carbon dioxide and water dissolved in oil. The unit is capable of accepting additional analog inputs from sensors installed on the transformer including: top oil temperature; load current; winding temperature; voltage; and ambient temperature.