Checkpoints Before Transformer Installation

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Distribution Transformer: Erection & Commissioning Checkpoints

Introduction
A distribution transformer is an important link between any utilitys distribution network and the power
supply delivered to customer. It is therefore most vital asset in any electrical distribution network and
needs special attention right from erection, commissioning and maintenance of these transformers.
Let us examine some important aspects related to erection, commissioning of Distribution Transformer.
Checkpoints before Transformer installation

Before the transformer is lifted from the warehouse / maintenance workshop and taken to the
site where it is to be installed, following physical inspection/checks should be done:
Check the transformer bushings thoroughly for any signs of cracks / damages
Check the oil level in the transformer and check for any signs of oil leakage through bushings,
gaskets or welded joints
Test the Insulation Resistance (IR) values using a 1000 V Megger unit for various sections such as
HV to LV, LV to Earth, HV to Earth.
For a rated voltage of winding between 11 kV up to 6.6 kV the minimum safe IR value should be
in the range of 200 mega Ohms to 400 mega Ohms
In case if the above values are not obtained then it is necessary to dry out the transformer
completely by filtration procedure
Check whether tests are carried out for Ratio Tests, % impendence voltage test and rate
voltage withstand tests
Transformer Installation
During installation of Transformer on a Pole mounting structure, following checks should be made:
Ensure that the base channel of transformer is at height complying to IEC Standards:
a. Height of top of HV bushing from ground for pole mounted transformer should be 4.572
meters minimum (15 Ft)
b. Height of top of HV bushing from ground for plinth mounted transformer should be 2.75
meters minimum (8 Ft)
Ensure that base channel is horizontally leveled
Avoid jerky movement of the transformer while lifting it upwards during installation
During installation ensure that the HV bushings of the transformer are on the DO unit (or HG
fuse unit) side of the structure
After installation of transformer, also check that other allied equipments such as AB switch,
Horn Gap fuse units, DO Fuse sets, lightening arrestor etc. are fitted at appropriate positions as
per the applicable drawing issued by the utility.
Use PVC unarmoured cable (3 core) of appropriate size and length for LV side. Ensure that the
lugs are appropriately crimped at the ends.
Earthing of Distribution Transformer
Earthing of transformer is an important aspect of Distribution Transformer installation. As per IE rules:
61 (1) (a) and 61 (2), the neutral bushing of the transformer and the body of the transformer should be
earthed by not less than two separate and distinct connections with a minimum of two different earth
electrodes.
In order to comply with above rule it is a customary practice to excavate three earth pits (usually 8 feet
deep) arranged to form an equilateral triangle. One pit is used for connecting lightening arrestors. The
transformer neutral earthing is connected to another pit while the body earthing is connected to third
pit.
These three earth electrodes are connected to each other to form earth bus at one feet below the
ground. The earth resistance of these interconnected electrodes should not exceed 2.5 ohms.
Commissioning of Distribution Transformer
Before actually charging the transformer, the following points should be checked:
Transformer should be inspected by authorized electrical inspector and get permission to
energize the same
Insulation resistance and continuity of the winding should be checked by 1000V Megger
Check dielectric strength of the transformer oil by taking out sample
Check oil level in conservator tank, color of silica gel in the breather and oil level at the bottom
of the breather
Make MCCB/Main Switch in the distribution box OFF and charge the transformer on no load by
using DO fuse elements of suitable capacity
Wait until noise of the transformer stabilizes then measure the secondary voltages phase to
phase and phase to neutral
Apply load on the transformer (preferably a 3-phase motor) and check direction of rotation of
motor. If the motor rotates in reverse direction, then the phase sequence of connections is
wrong and needs to be rectified. To rectify this, interchange the cable connections at the MCCB
/ Main switch e.g. R&Y or Y&B or B&R phase connections. The phase sequence will then be
rectified.

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