Advances in smart metering for the monitoring of distribution transformers

Distribution transformers (DTs) play an integral role in the electricity network and therefore monitoring their performance is important to ensure electricity supply stability. Meter readings performed manually carry risks of being inaccurate or delayed. Since the onset of remote reading of electricity metering, it was possible to measure pertinent characteristics of DTs non-intrusively, with high accuracy and timeously. The objectives of this research are to focus on the smart metering solutions available for monitoring DTs. It also includes studying the effectiveness of such measures and highlights the significance of performing this research. The research methodologies deployed include approaches such as the use of case-studies, comparative analysis, and extended literature review identifying the area of most concern in addressing the research problem identified. The aim is therefore to research key aspects of existing measures to identify solutions to a real problem. As electricity meters are critical for DT measurements, the experiment section of the paper covers simulation of typical available monitoring measures with a view of how this data can be utilised. DT monitoring measurement to be undertaken will include maximum demand, phase unbalance, quality of supply and poor power factor readings. The threshold levels of indicating potential failing transformers are also discussed. Early detection could therefore prevent their complete failure and be a useful tool in identifying priority cases that should be addressed first.