Transformer testing after shipment
introduction to transformer testing
When a transformer installation is completed, it is required to do some tests on transformer to determine the transformer electrical, mechanical and thermal stability for the utility and facility are are supposed to used. Such tests for a transformer are defined as standard test in national standards created by IEEE, NEMA and ANSI. A few tests which are normally performed on a transformer after supplied are as following.
Transformer Turns Ratio TTR testing
The Transformer Turns Ratio test is used to make sure that the Turns Ratio between the winding of the transformer is correct.
With this information, one can decide what the output voltage of the transformer will be. The ratio is calculated and tested under no-load conditions.
Simultaneous readings of voltage are taken to low voltage and high voltage windings area taken after the voltage is applied to one winding. The ratio is the division between the high reading and low reading. If it is a three-phase transformer, each phase is tested individually.
Insulation Resistance testing
The insulation resistance testing is commonly known as the Megger test. It measures the quality of insulation within the transformer. Some variations will be obtained depending on the moisture, cleanliness and the temperature of the insulation. It is recommended that tank and core should always be grounded when this test is performed. Each winding should be short-circuited at the bushing terminals. Resistances are then measured between each winding and all other winding and ground.
Transformer Power Factor test
This test will detect the dryness of transformer insulation.
It is the ratio of the power dissipated divided by the input volt-ampere multiplied by 100. The test is made with a capacitance bridge, and the connections are the same as for the Megger test. This test can be repeated during the service life of the transformer and verified against the result obtained during manufacturing to check if the insulation is malfunctioning or decaying.
Transformer Resistance Test
For this test the transformer must be cold. The transformer must be kept no load or switched off for several hours before performing this test. Winding resistance is calculated by measuring the voltage and current simultaneously, with the current as close to the rated current as possible. Performing this test will allow you calculate and compensate for major component of load losses as a whole.
Transformer Polarity test
This test on a transformer is either additive or subtraction. When voltage is applied between the primary bushings and the resultant voltage between the secondary bushings is greater, then it means that the transformer has additive polarity. Polarity is a vital concern if transformers are to be paralleled or bank connected. Three-phase transformers are also checked for polarity by the same means.
Transformer Phase Relation
This test will detect if transformers have been connected in a correct phase relationship. It calculates the angular displacement and relative phase sequence of the transformer, and can be tested at the same time as ratio and polarity tests. The voltages of the phase of primary and secondary can be recorded and comparisons made to get the phase relation.
Transformer Oil Tests
An oil sample will detect several things on a transformer. The following tests can be performed with the oil sample.
- Acid number
- Dielectric breakdown
- Power factor
- Moisture content
- Interfacial tension
Oil test are really useful to determine the condition of the insulation and the oil so based on these results a maintenance program can be established.
Transformer Visual Inspection
The simplest of all. It can reveal potential problems that may not be detected by diagnostic testing. A standard procedure must be established to perform the visual routine test.
0 Comments: