Diagnostic Approach and Condition Monitoring Methods to Boost up the Reliability of Transformer

Abstract

Distribution transformers (DTs) are an equipment of potential importance in the distributed grid. Distribution Transformer (DT) is the major component in the integrated architecture of power system. Power transformer and distribution transformer are critical component for generation, transmission and distribution utility. Its failure monitoring and diagnosis are important for a reliable power system since it is the connecting link between consumer and utility. The distribution transformers are installed at different locations in a power system. They are important in the electricity supply system as they feed power supply to the end users. Because large number of transformers are distributed over a wide area in power system network, the data acquisition and condition monitoring (CM) is an important issue. A transformer failure results in considerable losses for the energy supplier and society. Thus, transformer conditioning monitoring is becoming popular. Monitoring the condition of the transformer helps to extend service life, reduce the risk of failure of expensive devices and increase reliability to a high level. The various condition monitoring methods described in this document are useful for power transformers and distribution transformers.