Transformer & Switchgear
Dry Type Transformer

Transformer PD Monitoring

Slideshow
Minimize the Risk of In Service Failure

IRIS Power offers all the necessary tools to detect partial discharge (PD) activity in dry type transformers.

Partial discharges (PD) are symptoms of the developing problems in dry-type transformers rated 4 kV and above. PD creates small current pulses, which identify the extent and the nature of the developing problem. Although detection of PD is not a challenge in itself, external electrical noise may lead to false indications that are critical to the successful diagnosis of the condition of the winding insulation system. By employing various noise separation tools, Iris Power is at the forefront of developing on-line PD monitoring systems (instrumentation, software and knowledge-base).

Ideally, the dry type transformer should have no detectable PD activity. Periodic PD measurements (and/or continuous monitors) allow the user to identify early signs of winding insulation deterioration due to thermal ageing or tracking caused by airborne contamination or moisture condensation, and take steps to avoid in-service failure.

Expand Predictive Maintenance Program for your Dry Type Transformers

The techniques developed by Iris Power for motor and generator PD monitoring have now been extended to provide cost effective and reliable monitoring systems for dry type transformers. The advantages to a maintenance department seeking to enhance reliability are as follows:

  • Low testing costs. Once the sensors are installed, maintenance personnel perform periodic measurements during normal operation. In the case of a continuous monitor, the alarm levels are set to provide a warning of increasing PD activity.
  • Iris Power can provide support to assist in the installation and calibration of systems (if requested), and to help plan your outage by identifying dry type transformers with connected buses that are at risk.
  • Trending of data and support with interpretation from Iris.
  • The instrumentation and hardware required to perform on-line PD testing on large rotating machines (i.e. motors and generators) is compatible with that required for bus monitoring. Hence, if your plant already owns the Iris TGA-B technology, you can use the same test equipment and procedures for dry-type transformer and bus monitoring, improving the return on your investment.

To find out what needs to be done to start monitoring PD on dry-type transformers, contact IRIS Power.