CG Manual
CG Manual
CG Manual
4. Maintenance 15
4.1. Annual external check 15
4.2. Two-yearly maintenance 15
7. Accessories 17
8. Standards 18
9. End of life 19
Before energizing the transformer, a basic visual electrical & mechanical component check up should be
completed. Check that:
> The transformer is not damaged;
> The fins are not damaged;
> There are no oil leaks;
> The paint is not damaged;
> The bushings & accessories are not damaged.
Never open a hermetically sealed transformer. Please contact our After Sales Service department for
instructions. Never open such a transformer at oil temperatures higher than 20°C (thermometer pocket
reading) since hot oil may be ejected.
The tap-changer handle must not be operated when the transformer is energized (must be OFF-CIRCUIT)!
In case of presence of an expansion tank: remove the gasket from the fitted breather or replace the blind
flange and install the breather.
Refer to the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all safety measures and
precautions with regard to fire hazard, exposure to skin or contamination of materials such as the cooling
liquid and paints.
A transformer is an electrical appliance and should therefore be handled according to the applicable national
safety instructions.
Remarks:
This manual applies to liquid-filled “Distribution Transformers” which covers the range of transformers up to
some 5MVA/36kV, not only used for distribution of electricity but also for energy supply to light industry and
generator step-up applications.
This range typically uses transformers with finned tanks. If you have opted for a transformer tank with
radiators, other instructions are partly applicable. Consult us about these.
This manual applies to liquid-filled transformers in which the liquid can either be:
> Mineral oil as per IEC 60296;
> Silicone fluid as per IEC 60836;
> Synthetic ester as per IEC 61099;
> Natural (vegetal) ester as per supplier’s TDS.
The transformer typically comes with a factory warranty against construction defects that applies for 12
months after being put into operation, with a maximum of 18 months after leaving the factory. Any deviations
from this must be established contractually. The warranty is limited to the repair or possible replacement
of the transformer and this repair or replacement does not extend the original warranty. If difficulties arise
during the warranty period and afterwards, the service department of CG Power Systems Belgium NV can be
contacted. They will give you the necessary assistance.
In case of any interpretation disputes, the ‘General terms and conditions of sale’ of CG Power Systems
Belgium NV shall take precedence over these instructions and the ‘Special agreements’ shall take precedence
over the ‘General terms and conditions of sale’.
Distribution transformers are shipped ‘ready for installation’, which means filled with the insulating liquid
and with accessories fitted (or occasionally supplied separately).
The transformers must be tightly secured at the top and bottom on the truck. At the bottom by nailing down
the skid, by using rubber mats or other means; fixed rollers should be clamped. The transformer must
be tightly secured at the top via the lifting lugs or via special transport securing lugs. If securing straps
are used, make sure they do not pull on the fins or fin reinforcements. If the transformer is fitted with an
expansion tank and a silica gel breather, see paragraph 1.2.2. about hermetic sealing.
Transformers are usually packed in sturdy crates, boxes or containers. When packed in crates, the
transformer’s lifting lugs can be used to lift the entire equipment. Under no circumstances may moisture be
allowed to penetrate into the transformer. For hermetically sealed transformers – those with gas cushions
as well as those with integral filling – this is not a problem. The liquid cannot come into contact with the
surrounding air. For transformers with an expansion tank the infiltration of air during transportation and
storage is prevented by:
> Either placing a gasket in the de-aerator (breather) cap (which must be removed before the transformer
is energized);
> Or replacing the silica gel air breather by a blind flange that prevents the infiltration of air. In that case
the air breather is supplied separately. Assembly instructions are included with the air breather.
In order to move a transformer the following accessories are required, depending on the transformer’s size
and the directions:
> A set of rollers, the wheels of which can be changed very simply in a longitudinal or diagonal direction;
> Lifting lugs on the main cover;
> Reinforcement of the bottom of the transformer tank allowing transportation by forklift, and;
> If necessary, upon special request, jacking bosses and/or (fixed or detachable) lugs on the roller base or
carriage.
Attention: Never lift a transformer under the cooler fins. Never use the bushings (high voltage (HV) or
low voltage (LV) insulators) to guide the transformer when moving it. Nor should the fins or fin
reinforcements (round bar on top and bottom of the fins) be pulled on.
The securing lugs are not to be used to manipulate the transformer; they must be used
exclusively to secure the transformer during transport.
Upon arrival of a transformer and its accessories everything should be closely inspected.
All deviations should immediately be marked on the delivery note (CMR) and should immediately be
reported to CG Power Systems Belgium NV. If no report has been received within 24 hours of arrival at the
customer’s, it shall be assumed that the delivery arrived complete and in good condition.
In connection with transportation insurance, the following procedure is to be applied in the event of damage:
> If no transportation by sea preceded transportation by land and you did not receive an insurance
certificate:
- Declare the transport company liable by means of a comment on the delivery note and a registered
letter;
- Do what is necessary to limit the damage and to avoid additional damage;
- Inform CG Power Systems Belgium NV.
> If transportation by sea preceded transportation by land and/or you received an insurance certificate:
- Follow the instructions on the back of the insurance certificate carefully. Do not sign a ‘clean’ proof
of receipt, but record your reservations on these documents;
- Inform CG Power Systems Belgium NV.
> In case of transportation by rail: have the authorities at the station the delivery was collected from draw
up a report. This acceptance procedure must be repeated after each transportation stage, so that the
origin of the damage can be established.
> If an air breather is provided, it must be fitted and filled with dry silica gel. Fill the oil lock and fit
it under the air breather. The liquid level is checked and, if necessary, liquid is added. For more
information about this, see chapter 4 ‘Maintenance’.
> Any damage to the paint is touched up. Contact CG Power Systems Belgium NV for the correct
procedure.
> If a Buchholz relay is provided, the transport protection (test button lock) is removed.
> If an explosion vent is fitted, replace the blank plate by the foil membrane.
Storage is limited to 1 to 2 weeks. If it lasts longer than this, the expansion tank and, if provided, the air
breather must be installed and the transformer must be filled or topped up with the liquid provided. Storage
should preferably occur in a dry, ventilated area, unless the transformer is protected by a condensation-free
cover.
Preferably only fully assembled, liquid-filled transformers are stored for a long period of time. The following
checks must be carried out during storage:
> Check the air breather, if fitted. Check the status of the silica gel (its colour indicates whether it is dry or
wet; see chapter 7 for technical data on accessories). Check the level of the oil lock;
> Check the transformer for leaks;
> Check that there is no damage to the paint and that there is no rust.
If any defects are established, they should either be remedied immediately or CG Power Systems Belgium
NV should be informed as quickly as possible.
Before the transformer is stored, a full check as described in the ‘Acceptance procedure’ paragraph should
take place. Responsibility for correct storage lies with the customer. Attention should be paid to the
following:
> The possibility for the liquid to expand must be guaranteed;
> Contact of the liquid with the air must be avoided;
> The transformer must always be stored filled with liquid.
During installation the following rules must be followed in order to ensure that the transformer operates
correctly:
2.1. Installation
The local regulations for installing liquid-filled transformers in buildings, on a pole, in a cabinet or in the
open air must be followed to the letter in relation to, among others, fire safety, protection against leaking
(sump or oil-retaining tank), accessibility, electrical regulations,...
The place where the transformer is set up must be adequately ventilated in order to enable dissipation of
the heat given off by the transformer. We are at your disposal to do relevant calculations and to explain the
precautions that need to be taken. For distribution transformers set up in buildings or steel sheet substations
this implies a regular supply of fresh air from outside, adequate ventilation and enough free space in all
directions around the transformer.
Liquid sample plug, tap changer and any other operating and protection equipment must be easily
accessible. Monitoring apparatus such as thermometers must be clearly visible and/or readable.
Setting up the transformer completely parallel with a wall is not advisable as this may increase the noise.
Anti-vibration pads under the wheels may reduce the transfer of noise vibrations to the ground.
The area in which the transformer is placed must be inaccessible to pets, birds, rodents, ...
We once again remind you that lifting the transformer under the cooling fins is absolutely forbidden. This
will create leaks.
2.2. Connections
Electrical and other connections. Always ensure that connection of the cables and busbars to the bushings is
done without any tensile force being exerted on the bushings that can lead to leakage by the gasket or cracks
in the bushings. A flexible connection is highly recommended in all cases. In this way, expansion of the
conductors due to temperature differences cannot lead to leaks or cracks.
When using plug connections on the HV, the instructions of the manufacturer of the connectors are to be
observed.
To avoid any stress on the plug connection, the HV cables should be supported within 50 cm from the plug
connection. The first 50 cm of the cable should not be bended, after this distance the bending radius as per
instructions of the cable manufacturer should be respected.
Ensure that all connections have large, solid and clean contact surfaces. When connecting different
materials, precautions should be taken to avoid electrolytic couples. These connections can be made using
cable lugs, flat busbars or adapted clamps. Each feeder conductor must have a sufficiently large section.
Whenever the transformer’s HV and LV porcelain bushings are worked on, it must be ensured that the lower
nut on the bushing remains in position. This ensures that the transformer remains sealed. Use 2 spanners
when tightening the other nuts on the bushing to prevent the bushing from twisting.
2.3. Earthing
The transformer tank must be connected to the HV earthing system. Therefore earthing bolts or bosses are
fixed onto the cover, the roller carriage or the base of the transformer tank. The electrical resistance of the
earthing terminal is usually specified by the power supply company. Ensure that the connection point is kept
clean.
After setting up and connecting the transformer, the following steps must be carried out sequentially to put it
into operation:
> Check that the various transport protection measures have been removed: Buchholz test button lock,
air-breather plugs, seal in filler cap of expansion tank, polystyrene blocks in cooling fins, …
> Check the ambient temperature and ventilation of the premises.
> Check for leaks, rust and damage; (check that the drain plug does not leak, that the sampling plug and
any filter press valves are completely closed).
> Check the setting up and operation of the various accessories; dial plates of measuring apparatus and
the colour of the silica gel in the air-breather, if present, must be visible and readable at a safe distance
from the live parts.
> Check the colour of the silica gel (if applicable) since this indicates its dryness. If needed, the silica gel
must be dried or replaced. See the PK-documents listed in chapter 7.
> Check the liquid level via the oil level indicator (if applicable).
Attention: Never top up a hermetically sealed transformer yourself as there may be overpressure or
underpressure in the transformer tank.
> Check whether bushings, apparatus and control units are dirty. They must be clean at all times.
> Open HV and LV air-filled cable boxes: check for condensation, water penetration and leaks.
> Check the compound level in the HV cable junction box (if applicable).
> Tighten all bushings and electrical connections, including those in the boxes, using a torque spanner;
see chapter 2.2. ‘Connections’.
> Check that the transformer is properly earthed.
> Remove all foreign objects from the conductors, from the cover and from the cable boxes. If the
transformer is located in a distribution station or substation, all foreign objects must be removed from
this area.
> In case of dual voltage on the LV and/or HV side, check that the connecting strips or change-over
switches are in the correct position to form the required connection group and voltage.
All transformers that leave the factory have been submitted to the routine tests and measurements in
accordance with IEC 60076, and a test certificate is issued.
To electrically test the transformer again after transportation, setting up or installation, CG Power Systems
Belgium NV specifies the following tests:
> An insulation test using a 2500 or 5000 Volt ‘Megger’ (see Annex 1);
> A continuity test of the connections and windings, and;
> A check of the auxiliary devices and accessories (correct operation, setting and checking of the contacts,
cabling, checking of test equipment).
Attention: Never pressurise transformers to check the pressure valve and/or pressure relay.
3.3. Energizing
Energizing should be carried out by an authorized person and the locally applicable safety instructions
should be observed.
The transformer should be initially energized without load and with the tap changer in the position equivalent
to the rated no-load voltage. Measure the voltages between the LV phases themselves and to the earth.
For safety reasons we strongly advise against measuring directly on the LV transformer terminals. If these
voltages deviate from the rated no-load voltage, it can be adjusted (see procedure below). The transformer is
left with no load for a few hours. During this period the sound, temperature and liquid levels – if visible – are
checked regularly.
> The transformer may now run under load. A gradually increasing load with intermediate checks is
recommended.
> Adjusting the low voltage. If the voltage on the LV side both at no load and under load deviates from the
rated value and this must be adjusted, the procedure is as follows:
- De-energize the transformer at the HV and LV side and earth it properly;
- Unlock the tap changer by lifting the knob;
- Change the tap changer to the desired position;
- Release the knob until the spring presses it down again and thus re-locks the tap changer.
If the applied high voltage is higher than the rated transformer high voltage, this results in the low voltage
being too high.
In this case the HV tap changer knob should be put in a position that corresponds to a high voltage that is
higher than the rated high voltage (see rating plate). The tap changer must be set at a lower position number.
If the applied high voltage is lower than the rated transformer high voltage this results in the low voltage
being too low.
In this case the HV tap changer knob should be put in a position that corresponds to a high voltage that is
lower than the rated high voltage (see rating plate). The tap changer must be set at a higher position number.
Increasing low voltage (higher tap changer knob position number compared with reference value)
Decreasing low voltage (lower tap changer knob position number compared with reference value)
When running in parallel, the transformers must satisfy the relevant regulations and conditions (including
IEC 60076-1 and IEC 60076-8, see Chapter 4). These are the following:
> Transformers must have the same clock-hour number. The winding connections may be different;
> Impedance voltages must be the same (a tolerance of maximum 10% is allowed);
> Rated voltages must be equal (both HV and LV);
> When continuously running in parallel, the power rating ratio must not exceed 3:1.
The information for the above conditions can be found on the rating plate.
If the above conditions are not satisfied, circulation currents can occur which can lead to damage to the
transformer. For brief parallel operation (e.g. when switching over) this may be permitted. Consult IEC
60076-8 for more details.
We cannot be held liable for damage to transformers or electrical installations caused by faulty connections.
This maintenance check can be carried out while the transformer remains energized.
Attention: keep a safe distance from energized (live) parts.
This type of maintenance comprises the following:
> Assessing the various noises coming from the transformer;
> Checking the ambient temperature and ventilation of the premises;
> Checking for leaks, rust and damage;
> Checking for dirt on the bushings, apparatus and control units;
> Checking the colour of the silica gel (if applicable);
> Checking the liquid level via the oil level gauge (if present);
> Checking the liquid temperature (if thermometer present);
> Checking local temperature rises due to contact resistances on HV and LV connections (infrared
temperature measurement, discolorations, …), and;
> Checking if the overpressure relief device has been activated (if present).
This type of maintenance should be carried out while the transformer is de-energized and earthed at the HV
and LV sides. Also don’t forget to switch off the auxiliary voltage for the accessories!
We advise transformer users to adjust the above maintenance frequency if the transformers are located in
severe weather conditions and if the operating conditions allow or require a different frequency.
The sampling procedure, described in standards IEC 60475 and IEC 60567, must be followed strictly.
After a sample of the liquid has been taken, the level must be checked without opening the transformer
if possible, and if necessary or in case of doubt it must be adjusted by authorised CG Power Systems
personnel.
CG Power Systems advises a 5-yearly liquid analysis for hermetically sealed transformers and a 2-yearly
liquid analysis for transformers with an expansion tank. This can be adjusted if the results obtained indicate
the necessity of this or if operating conditions allow or require it.
Attention: Never top up with another type of liquid than the original type of liquid in the transformer!
For specialized work we recommend you to use the CG Power Systems After Sales Service department. CG
Power Systems offers qualified personnel and the necessary equipment to carry out specialized jobs adequately.
During office hours the After Sales Service can be reached on the following telephone and fax numbers:
> Phone +32 15 283 333
> Fax +32 15 283 300
> E-mail: [email protected] and [email protected]
Outside office hours, in the event of emergencies, this service is also available via the operator of
CG Power Systems Belgium NV: + 32 15 283 333 and +32 15 283 222.
More information on this (description, operation, ...) can be found on the PK sheets which are available upon
request.
However, the components can only be recycled after the cooling liquid has been drained. The latter should be
done with great care.
The indicative relation between the different transformer materials is the following:
> Cooling liquid 25%
> Core material 35%
> Winding material (copper and/or aluminium) 15%
> Steel 20%
> Insulation material 5%
The insulation material is to be regarded as non-toxic waste. The transformer does not contain any PCBs, or
PCTs, PCBTs or asbestos.
The Megger test measures the insulation resistance between the HV and LV windings and between the
windings and the earth. Any short-circuit to the earth or low insulation resistance due to the presence of
water in oil and windings or because of a high dissipation factor of the liquid can be detected in this way.
The following instructions shall be observed when carrying out this measurement:
> Remove HV and LV connections from the bushings;
> Clean the bushings;
> Carry out the measurement in dry conditions (no rain, fog, snow,…);
> Carry out the measurement by measuring directly on the transformer terminals;
> After each measurement the transformer should be discharged (extremely dangerous capacitive
voltage!);
> The transformer tank must be correctly connected to the earth.
Measuring procedure:
(*) Value should be read when the meter needle is stable (generally after 1 minute).
(**) The voltage applied during megger testing must never exceed the test voltage of the transformer.
Measurement may be carried out on any HV and LV phase as the three phases are interconnected internally.
If the values measured are less than 10 MOhm / kV, the cause must be established.
For example:
For a transformer with a rated high voltage of 15 kV the values must be minimum 10 x 15 = 150 MOhm (also
for the low voltage).
Thread size M6 M8 M10 M12 M16 M20 M30 M42 M48 > M55
Spanner size 10 13 17 19 24 30 46 65 75 75/85
Torque Nm Nm Nm Nm Nm Nm Nm Nm Nm Nm
A/ Bushings
1000A/ 1800A/ 4000 A/
Low voltage (LV) 250A 630A 3150A
1250A 2000A 4500 A
1. Fixing of bushing stem (13a) :
DIN 42530 7-12 25-40 65-100 100-150 100-150 100-150
EN 50386 with buna and cork 12 20 55-60 70-75 100-120 125-145
B/ LV connecting busbar
Interconnection (bolt in 8.8 steel) 40-50 65-85 100-180
C/ Lid / frame
Bolt and nut in stainless steel 20-25 40-60
D/ Busbar bushings
Fixing on the lid 8-15 25-40
E/ Valves
Gasket IT
(bolt and nut A2 with cup washer) 100-130
F/ Flanges
Gasket IT
(bolt and nut A2 with cup washer) 100-130
We recommend re-applying Max. Torque Value 4 weeks after replacement of the gaskets.
LV
LV
HV
Outside office hours, in the event of emergencies, this service is also available
via the operator of CG Power Systems Belgium NV: + 32 15 283 333 and +32 15 283 222.