Power transformer monitoring systems for better asset management

Abstract

The technology of sensors and other control equipment installed on power transformers has improved rapidly in last few years, with the number of new solutions and measuring methods also continuously growing. Monitoring systems contain a large variety of different measurements and calculated data related to measured values and standards. Monitoring systems on power transformers are not only a new feature for users, they can also be a good tool for manufacturers during the transformer's lifetime. Transformer manufacturers are able to monitor their products through such systems using data and events recorded on the transformer. Users are able to detect events or developing faults on the transformer that could disturb its operation. This leads to more efficient asset management. ICT equipment that is the core of such systems offers almost unlimited possibilities for processing and storing the recorded data. Also, a visualisation of such a system can be presented to the user using an innovative graphic interface. One of the most important requirements during the design phase of a described monitoring system was also the implementation of a dissolved gas sensor with multiple gas measuring capabilities. Measuring of multiple dissolved gases in transformer oil is important for better monitoring and understanding of transformer condition and better prediction of possible failures during the operation.