Application of PLC for on-line monitoring of power transformers

GE Syprotec has designed and manufactured a PLC based transformer monitoring and control system (TMCS). The TMCS is designed for permanent installation on or close to a specific transformer and is intended for monitoring a single unit. It also has the capability to provide cooling system control of the transformer. It may be part of a substation or a plant-wide, multi-unit network system (LAW) that provides input to a central control or DCS system. The TMCS can also give access to a Web page where the current performances of the transformer can be monitored. Through the collection, archiving, processing, analysis and interpretation of the data automatically monitored, the TMCS is designed to manage the operational life and to optimize the performance of the transformer. The processing make use of mathematical models which are computation based on industry recognized calculation methods. The data collected and archived as well as the diagnostics and recommendations resulting from data interpretation are available to end users at selected locations using an appropriate remote monitoring and control software. The TMCS may be used as a part of a global transformer substation monitoring system, or as a fully autonomous transformer monitoring unit consulted by the end user through a telephone line.