Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is one key function of a transformer in electrical systems?
What is one key function of a transformer in electrical systems?
Which of the following components is not part of a basic transformer design?
Which of the following components is not part of a basic transformer design?
Why can a transformer only operate with alternating current (AC)?
Why can a transformer only operate with alternating current (AC)?
What does the Buchholz relay in a transformer do?
What does the Buchholz relay in a transformer do?
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In addition to voltage transformation, what other aspect does a transformer efficiency relate to?
In addition to voltage transformation, what other aspect does a transformer efficiency relate to?
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What is the purpose of using a positive dry gas pressure during transport of transformers?
What is the purpose of using a positive dry gas pressure during transport of transformers?
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Which of the following is included in the commissioning process of transformers?
Which of the following is included in the commissioning process of transformers?
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What kind of measurements are taken during the commissioning of transformers?
What kind of measurements are taken during the commissioning of transformers?
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For larger transformers, what is the appropriate condition before transportation?
For larger transformers, what is the appropriate condition before transportation?
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What is the significance of creating a fingerprint during electrical measurements?
What is the significance of creating a fingerprint during electrical measurements?
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What is one of the main risks associated with porcelain bushings in transformers?
What is one of the main risks associated with porcelain bushings in transformers?
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Which risk from porcelain bushings is most likely to be aggravated by terrorist activities?
Which risk from porcelain bushings is most likely to be aggravated by terrorist activities?
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What is a significant contributor to transformer failures?
What is a significant contributor to transformer failures?
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What maintenance action is necessary for porcelain bushings to ensure reliability?
What maintenance action is necessary for porcelain bushings to ensure reliability?
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What is the overall risk of a large power transformer failing after one year of service?
What is the overall risk of a large power transformer failing after one year of service?
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Which feature of porcelain bushings is considered a disadvantage?
Which feature of porcelain bushings is considered a disadvantage?
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What proactive measure can enhance transformer reliability according to bushing fleet management principles?
What proactive measure can enhance transformer reliability according to bushing fleet management principles?
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Why are porcelain bushings not recommended for horizontal mounting?
Why are porcelain bushings not recommended for horizontal mounting?
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What is the main purpose of transposing the coils during the winding process?
What is the main purpose of transposing the coils during the winding process?
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What is the significance of major insulation in the core coil assembly?
What is the significance of major insulation in the core coil assembly?
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Which factor is a consequence of frequent loading and unloading of the transformer?
Which factor is a consequence of frequent loading and unloading of the transformer?
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During the ovening and drying process, why is drying considered essential for transformer insulation?
During the ovening and drying process, why is drying considered essential for transformer insulation?
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What are the two types of drying techniques used in transformer manufacturing?
What are the two types of drying techniques used in transformer manufacturing?
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What does the construction of the core coil assembly (CCA) influence?
What does the construction of the core coil assembly (CCA) influence?
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What type of support does the construction of CCA provide to the transformer?
What type of support does the construction of CCA provide to the transformer?
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What is a potential failure mode at high voltages if insulation properties are compromised?
What is a potential failure mode at high voltages if insulation properties are compromised?
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What is the purpose of inspecting a transformer upon arrival at a factory?
What is the purpose of inspecting a transformer upon arrival at a factory?
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Which specification is NOT typically included on a transformer's nameplate?
Which specification is NOT typically included on a transformer's nameplate?
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Why might transformers over 500 MVA deviate from the optimum iron/copper ratio?
Why might transformers over 500 MVA deviate from the optimum iron/copper ratio?
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What is one of the risks associated with transporting transformers?
What is one of the risks associated with transporting transformers?
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What adjustments might be made to a transformer's oil level for transport?
What adjustments might be made to a transformer's oil level for transport?
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Which type of transport vehicle can carry a transformer weighing up to 500 tons?
Which type of transport vehicle can carry a transformer weighing up to 500 tons?
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What is the benefit of enclosing transformer cabinets with transport boxes?
What is the benefit of enclosing transformer cabinets with transport boxes?
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What is a common practice for ensuring transformer safety during transportation?
What is a common practice for ensuring transformer safety during transportation?
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Which component is primarily responsible for maintaining oil levels within a transformer?
Which component is primarily responsible for maintaining oil levels within a transformer?
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Which of the following statements is true regarding transformer operation?
Which of the following statements is true regarding transformer operation?
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What role does the on-load tap-changer play in a transformer?
What role does the on-load tap-changer play in a transformer?
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Which component is NOT a functional part of a transformer's core?
Which component is NOT a functional part of a transformer's core?
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What is a critical effect of using alternating current (AC) in transformer operation?
What is a critical effect of using alternating current (AC) in transformer operation?
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What is the maximum lifetime of a transformer bushing according to its design?
What is the maximum lifetime of a transformer bushing according to its design?
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What is a key feature of the Secondary insulation used in OIP bushings?
What is a key feature of the Secondary insulation used in OIP bushings?
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Which component is NOT associated with the design of RIP (Resin Impregnated Paper) bushings?
Which component is NOT associated with the design of RIP (Resin Impregnated Paper) bushings?
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What modification is necessary for using the new bushing with larger draw lead size?
What modification is necessary for using the new bushing with larger draw lead size?
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What is the primary material used for the core insulator in RIS bushings?
What is the primary material used for the core insulator in RIS bushings?
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How does the risk of incidents associated with transformer bushings change with age?
How does the risk of incidents associated with transformer bushings change with age?
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What type of secondary insulation is used in RIP bushings?
What type of secondary insulation is used in RIP bushings?
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Which design feature distinguishes OIP bushings from RIP and RIS bushings?
Which design feature distinguishes OIP bushings from RIP and RIS bushings?
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What effect does a magnetic core have on the strength of the magnetic field in an electromagnetic coil?
What effect does a magnetic core have on the strength of the magnetic field in an electromagnetic coil?
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What is a primary consequence of using magnetic cores in AC devices?
What is a primary consequence of using magnetic cores in AC devices?
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Which insulation property helps prevent localized hotspots within a transformer winding?
Which insulation property helps prevent localized hotspots within a transformer winding?
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What type of magnetic material is commonly used in transformer cores due to its low coercivity?
What type of magnetic material is commonly used in transformer cores due to its low coercivity?
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What role does insulation material play in the mechanical support of transformer windings?
What role does insulation material play in the mechanical support of transformer windings?
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How does insulation control electric field distribution within a transformer?
How does insulation control electric field distribution within a transformer?
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What is one of the side effects of using a magnetic core in transformers?
What is one of the side effects of using a magnetic core in transformers?
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What benefit does winding insulation provide in terms of noise reduction within a transformer?
What benefit does winding insulation provide in terms of noise reduction within a transformer?
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What role does the current transformer serve in the winding thermometer mechanism?
What role does the current transformer serve in the winding thermometer mechanism?
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Which statement accurately describes the function of a dehydrating breather in transformers?
Which statement accurately describes the function of a dehydrating breather in transformers?
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What is a major benefit of maintenance-free dehydrating breathers compared to conventional ones?
What is a major benefit of maintenance-free dehydrating breathers compared to conventional ones?
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How does the winding thermometer indicate temperature changes?
How does the winding thermometer indicate temperature changes?
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Which of the following is NOT a function of the transformer dehydrating breather?
Which of the following is NOT a function of the transformer dehydrating breather?
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What is a critical aspect of the self-learning algorithm in maintenance-free breathers?
What is a critical aspect of the self-learning algorithm in maintenance-free breathers?
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Which impact does the heating of the measurement bellow have on the winding thermometer?
Which impact does the heating of the measurement bellow have on the winding thermometer?
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How do maintenance-free dehydrating breathers help in reducing operational costs?
How do maintenance-free dehydrating breathers help in reducing operational costs?
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Which of the following safety equipment is NOT required when working on transformers?
Which of the following safety equipment is NOT required when working on transformers?
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What is the first step a user must take before starting work on a transformer?
What is the first step a user must take before starting work on a transformer?
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Which action is NOT part of the protective measures for transformer safety?
Which action is NOT part of the protective measures for transformer safety?
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During transformer training, how is the practical training session structured?
During transformer training, how is the practical training session structured?
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Which of the following is NOT a part of the transformer training agenda?
Which of the following is NOT a part of the transformer training agenda?
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What does the employee count of 4,000 at Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH indicate?
What does the employee count of 4,000 at Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH indicate?
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What is the significance of providing a safeguard to the deluge sprinkler or CO2 units?
What is the significance of providing a safeguard to the deluge sprinkler or CO2 units?
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Which of the following describes a key feature of the company mentioned?
Which of the following describes a key feature of the company mentioned?
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What is the purpose of grounding visibly and ensuring the proper cable cross-section?
What is the purpose of grounding visibly and ensuring the proper cable cross-section?
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What type of hazard is prevented by switching off oil and water pumps?
What type of hazard is prevented by switching off oil and water pumps?
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How many locations does Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH operate in?
How many locations does Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH operate in?
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Which of the following is a benefit of having 28 subsidiaries and 11 joint ventures globally?
Which of the following is a benefit of having 28 subsidiaries and 11 joint ventures globally?
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What does the term 'AAA' signify for the company in terms of finance?
What does the term 'AAA' signify for the company in terms of finance?
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Which statement accurately represents the training schedule on the second day?
Which statement accurately represents the training schedule on the second day?
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The maximum rated voltage for transformers can reach up to 52 kV.
The maximum rated voltage for transformers can reach up to 52 kV.
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Almost 50% of all serious transformer fires are initiated by the failure of silicon composite bushings.
Almost 50% of all serious transformer fires are initiated by the failure of silicon composite bushings.
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Creepage distance for transformers can range from 505 mm/kV to 1,690 mm/kV.
Creepage distance for transformers can range from 505 mm/kV to 1,690 mm/kV.
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The partial discharges in transformers are considered high according to IEC 60137 standards.
The partial discharges in transformers are considered high according to IEC 60137 standards.
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The transformer failure risk is estimated to be as high as 0.5% each year of service.
The transformer failure risk is estimated to be as high as 0.5% each year of service.
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An on-load tap-changer includes an OLTC oil compartment as one of its components.
An on-load tap-changer includes an OLTC oil compartment as one of its components.
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Counterfeit bushings are likely to have superior mechanical strengths compared to genuine OIP bushings.
Counterfeit bushings are likely to have superior mechanical strengths compared to genuine OIP bushings.
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Transformers with a clamping interface conform to DIN 42538 standards.
Transformers with a clamping interface conform to DIN 42538 standards.
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A De-Energized Tap-Changer (DETC) can operate while the transformer is energized.
A De-Energized Tap-Changer (DETC) can operate while the transformer is energized.
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On-Load Tap-Changer (OLTC) allows for uninterrupted switching operations while the transformer is on.
On-Load Tap-Changer (OLTC) allows for uninterrupted switching operations while the transformer is on.
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The Semiconductor Tap-Changer is known for its wear-free switching operations.
The Semiconductor Tap-Changer is known for its wear-free switching operations.
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The High-Speed Resistor-Type Tap-Changer was patented by Dr.A.
The High-Speed Resistor-Type Tap-Changer was patented by Dr.A.
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DETCs are typically operated automatically without human intervention.
DETCs are typically operated automatically without human intervention.
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The Reactor-Type Tap-Changer is designed for make-before-break switching operations.
The Reactor-Type Tap-Changer is designed for make-before-break switching operations.
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The On-Load Tap-Changer (OLTC) can be operated manually at any time.
The On-Load Tap-Changer (OLTC) can be operated manually at any time.
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DETCs are highly complex and require regular maintenance.
DETCs are highly complex and require regular maintenance.
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All types of tap changers require the transformer to be de-energized for operation.
All types of tap changers require the transformer to be de-energized for operation.
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The Tap Changer using semiconductor technology operates inside the transformer.
The Tap Changer using semiconductor technology operates inside the transformer.
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The VACUTAP® technology allows for contact life exceeding 600,000 tap-change operations.
The VACUTAP® technology allows for contact life exceeding 600,000 tap-change operations.
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Conventional technology tap changers extinguish the arc in a vacuum interrupter.
Conventional technology tap changers extinguish the arc in a vacuum interrupter.
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The diverter switch insert is a critical assembly in a high-speed resistor-type tap-changer.
The diverter switch insert is a critical assembly in a high-speed resistor-type tap-changer.
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An electric switch with several switching positions is known as a circuit breaker.
An electric switch with several switching positions is known as a circuit breaker.
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In a transformer, the tap changer is responsible for altering the winding ratio, thus affecting voltage output.
In a transformer, the tap changer is responsible for altering the winding ratio, thus affecting voltage output.
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The oil compartment in a transformer tap changer aids in insulating and cooling.
The oil compartment in a transformer tap changer aids in insulating and cooling.
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A tap changer can only be built for a single phase operation.
A tap changer can only be built for a single phase operation.
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Mineral oil used in transformers is primarily responsible for switching gases formation.
Mineral oil used in transformers is primarily responsible for switching gases formation.
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The aging of OLTC insulating oil is a crucial factor that affects tap changers.
The aging of OLTC insulating oil is a crucial factor that affects tap changers.
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Formation of carbon bodies occurs during the switching process in high-speed resistor-type tap-changers.
Formation of carbon bodies occurs during the switching process in high-speed resistor-type tap-changers.
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The maximum overload with the new bushing is 1.255 p.u.
The maximum overload with the new bushing is 1.255 p.u.
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Bushing OLD has a current rating of 2.000 A.
Bushing OLD has a current rating of 2.000 A.
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DGA results are not evaluated for COTA bushings.
DGA results are not evaluated for COTA bushings.
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The transport box can be used to store the bushing in an inclined position.
The transport box can be used to store the bushing in an inclined position.
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Moisture is one of the factors evaluated in the oil sampling from trench COTA bushings.
Moisture is one of the factors evaluated in the oil sampling from trench COTA bushings.
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The winding thermometer exclusively measures the top-oil temperature without considering the load current.
The winding thermometer exclusively measures the top-oil temperature without considering the load current.
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Transformers equipped with dehydrating breathers do not need any maintenance to protect the insulating liquid.
Transformers equipped with dehydrating breathers do not need any maintenance to protect the insulating liquid.
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The movement of the measuring bellow in a winding thermometer is affected by a resistor that heats up due to current flow.
The movement of the measuring bellow in a winding thermometer is affected by a resistor that heats up due to current flow.
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The self-learning algorithm in maintenance-free dehydrating breathers is designed to reduce operating costs and not for monitoring the breathing cycle.
The self-learning algorithm in maintenance-free dehydrating breathers is designed to reduce operating costs and not for monitoring the breathing cycle.
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Dehydrating breathers help to maintain the dielectric strength of the insulating medium by absorbing moisture from the surroundings.
Dehydrating breathers help to maintain the dielectric strength of the insulating medium by absorbing moisture from the surroundings.
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A transformer dehydrating breather can only remove a small portion of the moisture from the air due to its design limitations.
A transformer dehydrating breather can only remove a small portion of the moisture from the air due to its design limitations.
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The indicator in a winding thermometer is moved directly by the temperature of the load current without the influence of any mechanical components.
The indicator in a winding thermometer is moved directly by the temperature of the load current without the influence of any mechanical components.
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The combination of current signal, resistor heating, and measurement bellow operates synergistically in transformer monitoring systems.
The combination of current signal, resistor heating, and measurement bellow operates synergistically in transformer monitoring systems.
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Maintenance-free dehydrating breathers are less effective in humid climatic zones compared to conventional breathers.
Maintenance-free dehydrating breathers are less effective in humid climatic zones compared to conventional breathers.
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The transformation effectiveness of a winding thermometer is independent of the current transformer's signal when under load.
The transformation effectiveness of a winding thermometer is independent of the current transformer's signal when under load.
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Study Notes
Transformer Main Components
- Clamping
- Frame
- Conservator
- HV Bushings
- LV Bushings
- Oil level indicator
- Bevel gear unit
- Buchholz relay
- Protective relay
- Pipes
- Dehydrating breathers
- Nameplate
- Tap Leads
- Tapped Winding
- Tank
- Motor-drive unit
- Measurements
- Three-limb core
- LV Winding
- HV Winding
- Radiators
- On-load tap-changer
- Drive shafts
Transformer Basics
- Transformer only works with alternating current (AC)
- Transformers allow voltage transformation
- Transformers were key to AC winning the "current war"
Transformer Mechanical Arrangement
- Bushings are important components of transformers
- Porcelain bushings used for voltage insulation have several risks:
- Oil leakage and transformer fire
- Breakages due to vandalism or terrorist attacks
- Explosion and fragments due to electrical arcs
- Need regular maintenance (cleaning & washing)
- Fragility and difficult handling
- Not recommended for horizontal mounting
- While they have good compression strength, they have weak bending strength
Increasing Transformer Reliability by Proactive Bushing Fleet Management
- Aging transformers have a higher hazard rate
- Transformer insulation failures are the most common, followed by winding issues
- It is important to anticipate the aging trends of an installed transformer fleet
HV Bushings life management importance
- Bushings significantly contribute to transformer failures
- The risk of a large power transformer failure is assumed to be up to 1% per year
Transformer Manufacturing Process - Core Coil Assembly
- The core coil assembly (CCA) is the winding assembly on the core and a vital part of the transformer
- Construction of the CCA depends on insulation, cooling, dynamic withstand capability, and handling
- Insulation scheme is categorized into major (high voltage) and minor (turn and joint)
- The CCA must withstand tensile stress from frequent loading and unloading
- The assembly design must be easy to handle for lowering into the tank and vice versa
Transformer Manufacturing Process - Ovening and Drying
- The drying process is important in transformer manufacturing
- Paper and wood-based insulation materials absorb moisture, which weakens insulation and reduces resistance to high voltages
- Two drying types: Air drying and vacuum drying
Transformer Manufacturing Process - Inspection
- Before accepting a transformer shipment, there are several inspections to perform
- Electrical tests are essential to verify the unit's functionality
- The transformer nameplate provides information about the unit's ratings, impedance, voltages, phasing, temperature rise, oil type, weight, connection diagrams, manufacturer, model number/type, and serial number
Transformer Transportation & Shipping - Transformer Rigging - Transport
- The size of a transformer depends on its power
- High power transformers often deviate from the optimum iron/copper ratio (2/1) due to transportability
- Limits on the weight of transformers
- Future challenges may arise in the transport of transformers
Transformer Transportation & Shipping - Transformer Rigging - Transport Medium and Max.Weights
- Flatbed trucks can transport up to 150 tons
- Schnabel cars can transport up to 300 tons (with through-loading beam) or 500 tons
- Roll-on/Roll-off can transport up to 500 tons
Transformer Transportation & Shipping - Transformer Rigging - Dismantling
- Dismantling of feedthroughs and all interfering components during transport
- Enclosure of cabinets with transport boxes
- Lowering oil levels or emptying vessels
- Filling with dry air or nitrogen for transport
Transformer Transportation & Shipping - Transformer Rigging - Risks to Goods During Transport
- Increased tendency to transport goods globally
- Construction supervision
- Technical support during installation and commissioning
- Multi-year service contracts
- Comprehensive electrical testing and oil filling during commissioning
- Comparison of on-site measurements with factory measurements for future reference
Transformer Commissioning & Installation - Transformer Rigging - Montage and Installation
- Transformers with primary and secondary connections
- Bushings
- Conservator
- Oil work
- IBN tests
- Oil sampling and analysis
- Cooling system
- Piping system
- Protection and monitoring devices
- Dome
Transformer Commissioning & Installation - Transformer Riging - Transport
- It is possible to transport small power transformers full or partially filled with oil
- Larger transformers are transported empty of oil
- Empty or partially filled transformers are put under a positive dry gas pressure before shipping
- An automatic system ensures continuous positive pressure inside the transformer
Working Safety on Transformers Equipment
- Protective equipment includes helmets, goggles, work clothes, safety shoes, belts, ear protection, and electrical gloves.
- The transformer must be shut down before starting work.
- Grounding switch must be safeguarded to prevent accidental restart.
- Verify de-energized state and ensure proper ground cable size and placement.
- Mark hazard areas clearly.
- Deluge sprinklers and CO2 units should be switched off.
- Oil and water pumps should be switched off to prevent electrostatic charging hazards.
- Suitable ladders should be used and tied securely.
- Escape routes should be explained and shown.
RME Transformer Training Agenda
- Day 1 includes Introduction, Transformer Basics, Transformer Mechanical Arrangement, Oil Processing & Oil Reconditioning.
- Day 2 includes Maintenance Strategies, Electrical Measurements, Routine Services, Oil Sampling & Oil analysis, Testing Oil reconditioning equipment.
- Day 3 includes Taking oil samples, Testing of electrical equipment, Thermography, Testing thermography equipment, Visual Inspection, and Conclusion.
MR at a Glance
- MR is a family business since 1868, now in its sixth generation.
- MR is a world market leader, with 50% of the world's electricity flowing through their products.
- MR has a revenue of 1 billion euros in 2023.
- The company has a AAA rating.
- MR employs over 4,000 people of 61 nationalities at 60 locations.
- MR has 8,000 customers in 185 countries.
Transformer Basics
- Transformers use alternating current (AC) and cannot operate with direct current (DC).
- Magnetic fields are created by current-carrying coils.
- Transformers are often used to change voltage levels.
- Magnetic cores increase the strength of magnetic fields.
- Magnetic cores cause energy losses due to hysteresis and eddy currents.
- Transformer calculations help to understand the transformer's operation and efficiency.
Transformer Mechanical Arrangement
- Winding insulation protects conductors and coils from short circuits and ensures electrical safety.
- Winding insulation provides mechanical support for the winding, preventing movement or vibration.
- Insulation materials help to distribute and conduct heat evenly.
- Insulation controls the distribution of electric fields, reducing uneven intensities.
- Insulation materials reduce noise and vibration.
Transformer Mechanical Arrangement - Protective Devices
- The winding thermometer responds to both top-oil temperature and load current heating.
- The winding thermometer provides an image of the hottest part of the winding.
- Top-oil temperature is measured similarly to other methods.
- Load current proportional to winding current is used, measured by a current transformer.
- Current transformer's signal heats a resistor, which then heats the measurement bellow, increasing the indicator movement.
Transformer Mechanical Arrangement - Dehydrating Breathers
- Dehydrating breathers protect insulating liquids in transformers by preventing moisture absorption from ambient air.
- Dehydrating breathers remove moisture from the air entering the conservator during cooling.
- They prevent dielectric strength reduction and condensation formation.
Transformer Mechanical Arrangement - Breathers vs. Maintenance-Free Breathers
- Maintenance-free breathers continuously dehumidify and monitor breathing cycles in all climates.
- They reduce operating costs and improve reliability.
- They regenerate themselves, reducing costs and maximizing safety.
- They protect insulation medium against humidity.
- They use a condition-dependent and self-learning algorithm.
- They are easy to retrofit.
Transformer Bushing Replacement
- HSP Bushings last approximately 25 years according to design.
- The risk of incidents increases with age.
- OIP Bushings are designed with oil-impregnated paper, oil, and porcelain/epoxy/silicone insulators.
- RIP and RIS Bushings are designed with resin-impregnated paper/synthetic, gas/dry material filler, and epoxy resin/porcelain/silicone insulators.
- OIP to RIP&RIS design requires modifications like larger draw lead size and increased distance to ground.
Transformer Fire Risk
- Transformer failure results in a serious fire in 10% of cases.
- The risk of fire is as high as 0.1% for each year of service.
- Almost 50% of serious transformer fires are connected to OIP bushing failures.
- OIP bushing failure is considered the leading cause of transformer fires.
Silicone Composite Bushing (SBC)
- SBC is a type of transformer bushing that utilizes composite materials.
- SBC replaces fragile porcelain insulators with a high-tech composite insulator.
- SBC uses a fiber glass tube for superior mechanical strength.
- SBC offers cantilever load and horizontal assembly capabilities.
- The silicone molded coating provides electrical features compliant with IEC 137.
SBC Technical Data
- SBCs have a maximum rated voltage of 12 kV, 24 kV, 36 kV, and 52 kV.
- Maximum rated currents range from 630 A to 4,500 A.
- Creepage distance varies from 505 mm/kV to 1,690 mm/kV.
- SBCs adhere to the IEC 60137 standard.
- The clamping interface aligns with DIN 42538 and EN 50180.
- SBCs produce low partial discharges, meeting IEC 60137 standards (< 10 pC).
- Finish options include tin plating, silver plating, and other customizations.
On-Load Tap-Changer (OLTC) Components
- OLTC is composed of three main components: the motor-drive unit, accessories, and the OLTC itself.
OLTC Components
- The OLTC head includes a cover, pipe connections, a temperature sensor, a position indicator, a PRD flange with a pressure relief device, a blind flange, and an air bleed valve.
- The OLTC oil compartment contains the tap selector, the interrupter exchange module, and resistors.
- The tap selector uses a diverter switch insert (DSI).
- The OLTC motor-drive unit is utilized for operation.
Conventional vs. VACUTAP® Technology
- Conventional OLTC technology utilizes oil to quench the arc.
- VACUTAP® technology uses a vacuum interrupter for arc quenching.
- Conventional technology has a contact life of 200,000 - 500,000 tap-change operations.
- VACUTAP® technology offers a longer contact life of 600,000 tap-change operations.
OLTC Operation
- OLTCs function by adjusting the transmission ratio (winding ratio) in a transformer.
- Changes in the transmission ratio affect the voltage ratio and output voltage.
- OLTCs are designed for single, dual, or three-phase systems.
- On-load tap changers allow uninterrupted switching under load.
Tap Changer Types
- Tap changers are electric switches with multiple positions for adjusting the transmission ratio.
- De-energized tap changers (DETC) require the transformer to be switched off for operation.
- On-load tap changers (OLTC) allow uninterrupted switching while the transformer is energized.
- OLTCs include semiconductor, reactor-type, and high-speed resistor-type tap changers.
Tap Changer Assemblies
- A high-speed resistor-type tap changer consists of several assemblies: oil compartment, diverter switch insert, tap selector, and change-over selector/pre-selector.
Tap Changer Operation
- OLTCs provide the ability to adjust the output voltage of a transformer under load.
- The adjustment is achieved by changing the number of turns on the winding through the tap changer.
- The transformer is on during these adjustments, making OLTC's suitable for continuous operation.
Winding Thermometer
- The winding thermometer measures the heat generated in the transformer windings.
- It provides an image of the hottest part of the winding, incorporating both top-oil temperature and load current.
- The current signal is derived from a current transformer positioned inside the bushing.
- This current heats up a resistor element, leading to an increase in the temperature of the measurement bellow, causing an indicator movement.
Dehydrating Breathers
- Transformer dehydrating breathers protect the insulating liquid from moisture absorption.
- They remove moisture from the air entering the conservator as the transformer cools down.
- This increases operational safety by preventing dielectric strength reduction and condensation in the expansion tank.
Transformer Bushing Replacement
- Transformer bushing replacements involve replacing old oil-immersed paper (OIP) bushings with resin-impregnated paper (RIP) or silicone rubber (RIS) designs.
- This replacement aims to improve the transformer's reliability and performance.
- Replacing OIP bushings with RIP or RIS designs can impact the transformer's load capacity.
- It is crucial to carefully analyze the load requirements before proceeding with a bushing replacement.
OIP Bushing Oil Samples
- Oil samples collected from OIP bushings can provide valuable insights into the condition of the bushing.
- Analyzing these samples using Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA), breakdown voltage (BDV), and interfacial tension (IFT) measurements can identify potential issues such as moisture, sulphates, and other contaminants.
Dehydrating Breather Installation
- Maintenance-free dehydrating breathers offer continuous dehumidification and monitoring.
- They provide benefits such as reduced operational costs, increased reliability, self-regeneration, active humidity protection, and easy retrofitting on existing equipment.
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Explore the essential components and principles of transformers in this quiz. Learn about the mechanical arrangements, functionality, and safety concerns associated with transformers. Test your understanding of how transformers contribute to voltage transformation and AC electricity.