The maintenance frequency for oil in an oil-immersed transformer depends on the operating conditions, the environment, and the criticality of the equipment. However, standard maintenance practices typically involve the following schedule:
1. Regular Inspection and Sampling (Annually or Biannually)
- Oil sampling: Conduct oil sampling and testing at least once a year to assess its condition. In environments with high contamination risks or critical operations, testing may be done biannually or quarterly.
- Tests to perform:
- Dielectric strength test: Evaluates the oil's insulating properties.
- Moisture content: Checks for water contamination.
- Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA): Identifies gases produced by transformer faults.
- Acidity test: Measures the acidity level, which indicates oil degradation.
- Interfacial tension (IFT): Assesses oil contamination and degradation.
2. Minor Maintenance (Every 1-3 Years)
- Top-up oil: Add oil if the level is below the required mark. Use the same grade and type of transformer oil.
- Filtration or dehydration: If tests show contamination or moisture, consider oil filtration or dehydration to restore quality.
- Inspect seals and gaskets: Check for oil leaks and ensure seals and gaskets are intact.
3. Major Oil Maintenance (Every 5-10 Years)
- Complete oil replacement: Replace the oil entirely if it has degraded significantly or if it cannot be restored through filtration.
- Internal inspection: Perform a thorough inspection of the transformer’s core and windings when oil is removed.
- Upgrade or treat oil: Apply oil reconditioning or reclaiming to extend its life if the oil is still reusable.
4. As Needed
- Emergency checks: Perform immediate inspections after abnormal conditions, such as high temperature, overload, or evidence of fault gases.
- Leak repair: Address any detected oil leaks promptly to prevent contamination or loss.
Additional Considerations
- Critical transformers: For high-value or critical transformers, online monitoring systems can track oil parameters continuously, allowing for proactive maintenance.
- Environmental factors: Transformers operating in high humidity, high temperatures, or dusty environments may require more frequent oil checks.
Conclusion
A well-maintained transformer oil significantly prolongs the transformer's life and ensures operational reliability. Regular testing, timely filtration, and occasional replacement are key practices. Adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations and aligning them with your operational requirements will optimize transformer performance and minimize risks.
The SGOB Oil Immersed Transformers are engineered with high-quality insulation oil that surrounds and cools the transformer's core and windings. This oil acts as both a coolant and a dielectric medium, effectively dissipating heat and preventing electrical arcs, thereby enhancing the transformer's operational efficiency and safety.Visit our website at www.sgobtransformer.com to learn more about our products. For inquiries, you can reach us at enquiry@sgobtransformer.com.
