Electrical transformers are used to make machines run efficiently and effectively. And for you to get optimal performance as well as increased product life, you need to perform regular maintenance checkups. If this is done on a routine basis, then you might not have to undergo breakdown maintenance. Plus it minimizes downtime and improves productivity. But how do you go about it? Do you even know where to start? Well, this article will delve into the different types of maintenance checks and they’re carried out. Keep reading to learn more about power transformers!

Understanding the Basics

Current transformers are special devices that are commonly installed in electrical substations for electrical measurement and protection purposes. For safe and efficient operation, the CT’s insulation resistance has to be checked every year. Thermo vision scanning of the transformer’s primary terminals as well as its top dome must be conducted annually. All secondary connections must be examined, cleaned, as well as tightened every year in order to make sure that the secondary currents through the lowest resistance path. Though your electrical transformer might keep on working smoothly, the lack of maintenance can accelerate the inevitable damage and failure of your transformer.

Since they’re designed for high voltage capacity, transformers can be potentially hazardous to human health. That’s why it’s extremely important to prioritize safety measures with its operation and maintenance. Being mindful of your transformer’s design and carrying out the proper installation will go a long way in maintaining a safe environment for its components. Pay close attention to CE, UL, VDE, as well as CUL standards. And always ensure that your equipment meets ISO 9001 requirements. If the transformer starts to function abnormally, remove it from the system and then analyze it for maintenance.

Remember, avoiding safety precautions might lead to equipment failure and injuries that shine a negative light on your firm. Regular maintenance should be performed on the power transformer in order to keep it in a normal technical condition and also prolong its service life. If the maintenance work is performed well, not only will the rate of equipment failure be reduced, it will also bring amazing economic benefits to the company. You can use TranSwitcher. Get the TranSwitcher Product and improve your transformer’s efficiency. Check out the following tips and maintain your transformer like a pro!

Operate Within the Allowed Temperature Range

During operation, electrical transformers produce copper and iron losses. These losses are then converted into heat energy, making the transformer’s core as well as coil temperature to rise. And if the temperature exceeds the allowable range for a lengthy period of time, the insulation will slowly lose its mechanical elasticity.

When the transformer is running, each part features a different temperature setting. The coil temperature is typically the highest, followed closely by the core temperature, and then the oil insulation temperature.

However, you shouldn’t just monitor the upper oil temperature- the temperature difference existent between the cooling air and the upper oil temperature also plays a significant role in the safety of your transformer. This difference is often referred to as the temperature rise. As long as this temperature rise doesn’t exceed the allowed value, it can ensure the transformer’s safe operation.

Reasonable Load Capacity

In normal operation, the transformer’s load should be around 75 to 90 percent of the rated capacity. For optimal performance and efficient operation, always ensure that this value isn’t exceeded. Perform regular checks to confirm that the correct range is maintained.

Keep At the Correct Current range

At low voltage, the maximum unbalanced current shouldn’t exceed 25% of the rated load, and the allowable range of supply voltage variation should be plus or minus 5 percent of the rated voltage. In case this range is exceeded, use tap switches to adjust the voltage to the required range. Generally, the tap position of the primary winding is adjusted to realize voltage regulation. And the device connecting and changing tap position is referred to as the tap switch. It adjusts the ratio by altering the number of turns available in your transformer’s high-voltage winding.

Remember, the low voltage has no impact on the transformer itself, but it has a significant effect on the electrical equipment.

Check Out For Breakdown Faults

There are two common faults that might occur in a transformer; open circuit and short circuit.  Using a multimeter, you can easily detect the open circuit faults. However, this isn’t applicable to short circuit related faults.

Short Circuit Transformer Faults

When inspecting a power transformer for short circuit faults, cut off the load, turn on the power supply, and check the transformer’s no-load temperature rise. If the temperature is too high, it must a partial internal short circuit. Turn on the power for about 15 to 30 minutes. If the normal temperature rises are restored, then it means that the transformer is normal.

Connect a 1000 watt bulb in series in the transformer’s power circuit. When power is switched on, the bulb only turns red, showing that the transformer is normal. And the bulb is extremely bright, then there could be a local short circuit in the transformer

Open Circuit Transformer Faults

One of the most common causes of an open circuit is the lead wire break. But an internal coil break could also lead to such faults. So, check them carefully. If the internal wire is broken or the external one has burned traces, you may need to replace or rewind.

Depending on the type of fault diagnosed, always ensure that the right corrective measures are undertaken so as to restore normal operation.

The Bottom-Line

Transformers are crucial components of any machinery. So, ensure that it’s always well-maintained. If you want your equipment to stay safe, secure, and efficient, then start with conducting frequent maintenance checks. Operate in the allowed temperature range, keep it at a reasonable load capacity, and check out for breakdown faults. You also want to make sure that your transformer operates within the required current range. Otherwise, you might end up reducing the transformer’s lifespan and exposing its components to higher risks of damage.