Conventional Diagnostic Techniques

Power factor, Doble testing

Power factor measurements, commonly performed using Doble equipment, are used on paper oil insulation systems to assess losses indicative of paper deterioration and / or moisture ingress.

DGA, furan and moisture content of the oil

Gases dissolved in transformers are, generally, the result of deterioration of the insulation systems (paper & oil).    The moisture content of the oil is important in several aspects, including as a possible indicator of paper degradation. Interpretation of DGA data can be instrumental in the early detection of problems in transformers.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

Partial Discharge (PD); electrical and acoustic detection

Partial discharges can result following a stress enhancement and weakening of insulation. The phenomenon can be detected both electrically and acoustically.

Frequency response analysis

Frequency response analysis (FRA) is used as a tool for evaluating the condition of transformer windings. FRA testing to date indicates that major fault-induced winding deflections can be detected.

New diagnostic techniques

New diagnostic techniques are being introduced using dc return voltage, dielectric spectroscopy measurements to probe the insulation system and acoustic signature of coil vibration to determine winding tightness.

End-of-life transformer units

Kinectrics can also help clients capitalize on the retirement of units by performing more exhaustive destructive testing.  These results can be used to obtain a better understanding of the aging characteristics of a fleet of transformers.

Transformer Loading & Rating

Transformer ratings can be provided by Kinectrics based on the IEEE Guide for Loading Transformers using either the classical method, (Ch.7) or the more detailed Annex G method.

All power transformers encountered in practice can be handled, including autotransformers, two and three winding power transformers with fixed or adjustable tap changers on any of the windings.

Simulations of transformer overload conditions at imposed limitations concerning winding temperature, load value, lifetime loss, and time required to reach the assigned critical temperature can be performed.

Calculations of Short-Term Emergency (STE) Ratings and Long -Term Ratings (LTR) can be provided. The computations can also be executed on a real-time platform.

For more information, contact:

John Page, 416.207.6000 x6492, john.page@kinectrics.com