EEX20207 Maintenance Inspection of Transformer

Engineering Encyclopedia
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
Maintenance Inspections Of Transformers
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramcoís employees.
Any material contained in this document which is not already in the public
domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or disclosed to third
parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without the written permission
of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi Aramco.
Chapter : Electrical For additional information on this subject, contact

File Reference: EEX20207 W. A. Roussel
Engineering Encyclopedia Electrical
Maintenance Inspections of Transformers
CONTENTS PAGES
SPECIFYING IN-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS .................. 1

Liquid-Immersed Transformers ..................................................................... 1
Dry Type Transformers................................................................................. 7
SPECIFYING OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS ........ 9

Liquid Immersed Transformers ..................................................................... 9
Dry-Type Transformers .............................................................................. 12
ANALYZING MAINTENANCE DATA IN TRANSFORMER RECORDS .......... 14

Oil Test Data .............................................................................................. 14
Electrical Test Data .................................................................................... 17
WORK AID 1: IN-SERVICE INSPECTION ITEMS FOR

TRANSFORMERS ...................................................................... 20
WORK AID 2: OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR

TRANSFORMERS ...................................................................... 22
WORK AID 3: GUIDELINES FOR ANALYZING TRANSFORMER

MAINTENANCE DATA............................................................. 23
GLOSSARY .......................................................................................................... 24
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

SPECIFYING IN-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS
In-service transformer inspections are performed while the transformer is energized and operating.
A transformer should receive an in-service inspection every twelve months. The results of the
inspection should be recorded on a standard form. The forms should be saved as part of the
transformer's maintenance history. Figure 1 shows a typical In-Service Inspection Report. This
form can be used for both liquid and dry type transformers. Blocks that do not apply should be
marked N/A (Not Applicable).
Liquid-Immersed Transformers
In-service inspections on liquid immersed transformers are a combination of three things:
_ Current operating information

_ Testing of aspects that can be performed with the transformer energized
_ Visual inspection of components
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

Transformer In-Service Inspection Report

Figure 1

These in-service inspections are performed to give an overall indication of the transformers
condition, and to identify any problems that need immediate or future attention. The three items
can be further broken into individual inspections as follows:
_ Current and Voltage Readings

_ Temperature Readings
_ Liquid Level Indicators
_ Pressure/Vacuum Gauges
_ Insulating Oil Field Tests
_ Gauges and Alarms
_ Paralleling Circuit
_ Tap Changers and Controls
_ Dehydrating Breathers
_ Cabling System
_ Fault Gas Monitor
_ Visual Inspection
Current and Voltage Readings
Most transformers are equipped with instrument transformers and meters to show operating
current and voltage levels. These values normally are monitored by an operator. They also
should be recorded during the in-service inspection to show how much load the transformer was
carrying during the inspection. This information is useful to those who review these forms in the
future.
Temperature Readings
The value of all temperature indicating devices should also be recorded during in-service
inspections. These values are useful when evaluating the overall condition of the transformer.
Liquid Level Indicators
The level of insulating liquid in each tank or compartment equipped with a level indicator also
should be recorded during an in-service inspection. The level shown should correspond with the
temperature and load on the transformer.
Pressure/Vacuum Gauges
Any routine inspection of a gas seal type transformer must include the gas system itself. The
nitrogen tank pressure should be checked to find out if a full tank should be installed before the
next routine inspection. Equipment maintenance records should show the average amount of gas
lost through leakage and venting over a given period.

There also should be a gauge for determining gas pressure inside the transformer enclosure. Gas
seal systems normally have both low pressure and high pressure setpoints. Pressure inside the
enclosure should be between these two specified figures. If internal pressure is too high or too
low, setpoints on the pressure regulators may need to be adjusted.
The system can be checked for leaks by shutting off the nitrogen tank valve and observing the
transformer enclosure pressure gauge. The gauge should show no loss of pressure. If the gauge
slowly drops over a period of several minutes, this is a sure sign of a gas leak in the enclosure, or
in the gas piping downstream from the nitrogen tank itself. Any leaks must then be found and
repaired.
Many gas seal systems include a set of alarms for indicating excessively high or low gas pressures
in the enclosure, and a low-pressure alarm for the nitrogen tank. In some systems, these alarms
can be bypassed for maintenance purposes. Any routine inspection should make sure that all
alarm switches are in the automatic position, so that future problems do not go unnoticed.
Insulating Oil Field Test
A field test of the insulating liquid in each compartment also should be performed during an in-
service inspection. There are many tests that can be performed. The ones normally performed in
the field are:
_ Acidity Test - Neutralization Number

_ Dielectric Breakdown Voltage
_ Color
Gauges and Alarms
Transformers are equipped with various gauges and alarms. Those included vary with each
installation. The most common gauges and alarms are listed below. Each should be inspected
and tested during an in-service inspection.
_ Low Oil Level

_ Loss of AC
_ Loss of Potential
_ Parallel Lockout
_ Flow Gauges
_ High Nitrogen
_ Low Nitrogen
_ Low Pressure Nitrogen System

Paralleling Circuit
The paralleling circuit in a tap changer regulator has a lockout feature that prevents repositioning
the tap changer of a paralleled transformer when excessive circulating currents are present. The
parallel lockout circuit should be tested to make sure the circuit is operating right when the two
paralleled transformers are approximately 7-8 positions out-of-step. These numbers are
approximate, because the lockout devices are actually sensing circulating currents between the
transformers.
Tap Changers and Controls
The tap changer control compartment should be inspected for overall condition and cleanliness.
Terminations and terminal boards can be visually inspected for brittle or frayed insulation, and
broken wire strands. Any abnormal conditions should be noted, so the right actions can be taken.
Before cleaning or lubricating the LTC drive unit, the regulator should be placed in manual for the
duration of the maintenance. This will prevent injury due to moving gears and shafts. Dirt can be
removed from the compartment by using a vacuum cleaner with an insulated nozzle, or clean, dry
compressed air (not to exceed 30#). The manufacturer's technical manual for the LTC being
serviced should be consulted for the right lubrication points on the drive mechanisms.
Dehydrating Breathers
Dehydrating breathers are used on the air side of diaphragm sealed, conservator type transformer
enclosures. The color of the desiccant should be checked during in-service inspections. The
desiccant should be replaced as needed.
Cooling System
During in-service inspections, it is only necessary to make sure that the cooling system goes into
operation when the control switch is placed in manual. The test should include checking that all
fans and pumps start, as needed. Pump operation can be checked by observing the flow indicator,
and listening for abnormal pump or motor noises. The right operation of the flow indicator
should be noted on the inspection form. Return the manual/automatic control switch to automatic
when the test is complete. Fans and radiators should be clean to make sure of the right heat
removal capabilities. Make sure that all fans and fan shrouds are in place, and tightly bolted.

Fault Gas Monitor
Transformer gas systems should be tested for the presence of combustible gases. Any arcing
across small faults inside a transformer enclosure can break down winding insulation, and
insulating liquids. This produces various gases that will burn if oxygen and a source of ignition
are present. Testing for combustible gases serves two purposes:
_ Incipient faults can be detected before they are significant enough to trip
protective relays.
_ Taking corrective action can prevent the buildup of combustible gases, and
reduce the likelihood of explosive combustions inside the tightly sealed
enclosure.
Some power transformers have permanently installed combustible gas detection equipment that is
connected to an alarm system. In other cases, portable equipment must be brought to check for
combustible gases. Gas pressure regulating equipment typically includes a fitting for taking a
sample of gas from the transformer enclosure. The results from the installed combustible gas
detection equipment, or the portable equipment, should be recorded on the inspection form.
Visual Inspection
The visual inspection should include all items whose general condition can be found by visual
observation. The following sections give a brief description of the specific items to be inspected.
Relief Devices should not be obstructed by any foreign materials or debris. Gaskets and
diaphragms should be checked for leakage.
Bushings should be checked for overall cleanliness, cracks, and carbon streaking. Make
sure that all conductors are properly supported, and no undue stress is placed on the
bushing.
Paint - The exterior finish is important to the overall life of the tank, and the tank's heat
removal capabilities. The application of protective coatings or paints to steel surfaces can
help to protect the transformer from severe deterioration caused by destructive
atmospheric elements.
Electrical Grounds should be checked for tightness and integrity. Corroded connections
should be cleaned, and broken or frayed ground straps should be replaced.
Foundations should be checked for cracks or unevenness, and any signs of oil leakage.

Radiators should be checked for leaks and exterior finish. The cooling system should be
unobstructed from other equipment or debris. The radiators should be cleaned to restore
their heat removal capabilities.
Cabinets should be checked for their overall condition and exterior finish. All door latches
and hinges should operate smoothly.
Dry Type Transformers
Dry type transformers normally have less auxiliary equipment than liquid-immersed transformers.
For this reason, there are fewer items to look at during an in-service inspection.
Current and Voltage Readings
If the transformer is equipped with current and voltage meters, these values should be recorded
during in-service inspections. The reasons are the same as for liquid-immersed transformers.
Temperature Readings
Dry-type transformers larger than 500 kVA normally have some type of winding temperature
indicator. This value should be recorded during in-service inspections. The value is useful when
evaluating the overall condition of the transformer.
Pressure/Vacuum Gauges
Sealed, dry type transformers should be equipped with a gauge to show internal pressure. This
value should be recorded during in-service inspections. This reading is used to find out if there
are any leaks.
Ventilation Louvres
Ventilated dry type transformers are equipped with louvres to allow air flow through the
enclosure. Some are also equipped with filters. The louvres and/or filters should be inspected
and cleaned during in-service inspections. They must permit free flow of air to keep the
transformer from overheating.

Cooling Fans
If the transformer is equipped with cooling fans, they should be inspected the same way as the
fans on liquid immersed transformers.
Visual
Dry type transformers also should receive a visual inspection. The same items are inspected as
with liquid immersed transformers. The exceptions are that dry type transformers do not have
relief devices or radiators.

SPECIFYING OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS
Out-of-service transformer inspections are performed while the transformer is deenergized, and
disconnected from the line. A transformer should receive an out-of-service inspection every 36
months. The results of the inspection should be recorded on a standard form. The forms should
be saved as part of the transformer's maintenance history. Figure 2 shows a typical Out-of-
Service Inspection Report. This form can be used for both liquid and dry type transformers.
Blocks that do not apply should be marked N/A.
Liquid Immersed Transformers
Out-of-service inspections on liquid immersed transformers include the following:
_ In-Service Inspection Items

_ Insulation Resistance
_ Gauges and Alarms
_ Cooling Equipment
_ Tap Changer
In-Service Inspection Items
All of the normal in-service inspection items are included in the out-of-service inspection, except
for current operating information. The difference here is that all minor discrepancies like
defective gaskets, oil leaks, paint problems, etc. should be repaired.
Insulation Resistance
Two different tests can be performed to measure insulation resistance.
_ Power Factors (Doble) Test

_ Megger Test
Power Factor testing is normally only performed on transformers rated above 50 MVA. Power
factor tests find the electrical losses in transformer winding insulation that are released in the form
of heat.

Typical Out-of-Service Inspection Report

Figure 2

Megger tests are performed to find the insulation resistance of the transformer windings and
insulating medium. These tests should only be performed when the transformer is filled with oil.
If tests are performed at any other time, the readings will not be consistent with those performed
at other maintenance periods, or with the manufacturer's test results. The megohmmeter's range
and voltage should be noted. Different instruments and ranges produce different results. Care
must be taken when analyzing data from different instruments. A megohmmeter with a minimum
range of 50,000 ohms should be used. These tests should be performed at 2500 volts, however, if
previous tests were performed at another voltage level, the test should be performed at that
voltage also. The megger readings should be performed from HV to LV winding, HV to ground,
and LV to ground. Oil temperature and humidity readings also should be recorded to properly
correct all insulation resistance readings.
Gauges and Alarms
The out-of-service inspections should include the inspection and testing of temperature, pressure,
and level indicating devices. The oil level indicating devices are inspected in accordance with the
in-service inspection, and the results can be recorded on the out-of-service inspection form. The
accuracy of the level gauge can be found with the transformer deenergized, and the top manhole
cover removed for inspection. Calibration levels are noted on the transformer nameplate, and can
be used to check the accuracy of the indicating device. To repair or replace the level indicator,
the transformer oil level must be lowered below the indicating device, before removal.
Pressure relief devices should be tested by mechanically lifting, or making the alarm contacts
manually, to make sure an alarm is activated. The settings of these relief devices are made at the
factory, and can not be adjusted.
Hot spot and top oil temperature indicators should be tested and calibrated using a test unit.
Temperature alarms and control setpoints should be adjusted in accordance with the specifications
given on the transformer nameplate or engineering drawings. The transformer cooling system
should be checked for the right operation with the temperature switches.

Cooling Equipment
The cooling equipment should be inspected and tested as follows:
_ The automatic/manual selector switch is placed in manual. This should start

all of the right cooling bank fans.
_ The automatic cooling system equipment should start when the temperature
indicating device(s) is calibrated. The first bank of cooling should start at
85oC, and the second stage should start at 90oC for 2 - stage systems.
These temperatures are typical. Actual values should be listed on the
nameplate.
_ All fans and pumps should be inspected for abnormal noises or operating
temperatures. If equipped, make sure all fan shrouds are properly bolted in
place.
Tap Changer
During out-of-service inspections, only off-load tap changers are tested. LTC units should be
tested during transformer/regulator overhaul. The frequency of overhauls differ from one
manufacturer to another. Each transformer's technical manual will specify when an overhaul
should be performed.
The out-of-service inspection does not need to change the position of off-load tap changers. It
only needs recording its current position. This position should correspond to the previous
inspection, unless remarks on previous inspection forms say otherwise. Based on the current
position of the tap changer, the turns ratio is calculated using nameplate data. A turns ratio test is
then performed, and the results recorded on the inspection form.
Dry-Type Transformers
Out-of-service inspections on dry type transformers include the following:
_ In-Service Inspection Items

_ Gauges and Alarms
_ Cooling Equipment
_ Tap Changer

In-Service Inspection Items
All the normal in-service inspection items are included in the out-of-service inspection, with the
exception of current operating information. The difference here is that all minor discrepancies
should be repaired. Also, the visual inspection should include the interior of the enclosure. All
dust, dirt, and debris should be removed.
The insulation resistance of dry type transformers should be measured by performing a megger
test. The test is performed in the same fashion as for liquid immersed transformers.
Gauges and Alarms
Winding temperature indicators should be tested and calibrated, using a test unit. Temperature
alarm and control setpoints should be given on the nameplate or engineering drawings. If the
transformer has an automatic cooling system, it should be checked for the right operation with the
temperature switches.
Cooling Equipment
If a dry type transformer is equipped with an automatic cooling system, it should be inspected and
tested in the same fashion as for liquid immersed transformers.
Tap Changer
Dry type transformers with off load tap changers should be inspected and tested in the same
fashion as for liquid immersed transformers.

ANALYZING MAINTENANCE DATA IN TRANSFORMER RECORDS
The maintenance data in transformer records should be analyzed for several reasons.
_ To find out if there are problems that need immediate attention.
_ To find out if there are any minor problems that need attention in the future.
_ To find out if there are any indications of potential problems.
NOTE: The inspection (test) values may not be good/bad in and of themselves, but
major deviations from trend lines established by previous inspections may
indicate problems requiring further investigations and tests.
Oil Test Data
There is no one test by itself that can give a reliable indication of the condition of transformer oil.
This means that multiple tests should be performed. There are 55 different tests that could be
performed. Of these, only 10 are practical for monitoring in-service transformers. Each of these
are discussed briefly in the sections that follow.
Dielectric Breakdown Strength
This is the most common field and laboratory test for transformer oil. This test will only detect
free water, dirt, and conductive particles. It does not detect acids or sludges.
This test is performed by applying an AC voltage between two electrodes immersed in an oil
sample. When the current arcs across the gap between the electrodes, the voltage at that instant
is the dielectric breakdown strength. The acceptable values for this test vary with the test method
and operating experience. General acceptable values are at least 35 kV for new oils, and 25 kV
for used oils.
Acidity
This is the second most common field test for transformer oil. Another name for this test is the
neutralization number. Transformer oil becomes acidic due to oil oxidation. Sludge is the
eventual by-product of acidic oil.

Acidity can be measured in the field using a spot test. The spot test is made by applying drops of
an acidity buffer solution to a piece of filter paper, and allowing it to soak in. Two drops of oil
are then added to the same place, followed by one drop of an indicating solution. This
combination causes a color change that is compared to a standard color chart. The ratings are as
follows:
_ Green and yellow - 0.3 mg koh/gm

_ More green than yellow - less than 0.3 mg
_ More yellow than green - more than 0.3 mg
_ Orange or brown - high acidity
_ Blue - alkaline
There is no definite cutoff value between good or bad for this test. The value is used in trend
analysis to establish an overall rate of oil deterioration.
Interfacial Tension
This test is commonly referred to as the IFT test. The IFT measures the tension at the interface
between two immiscible liquids, oil and water. The results of the test are expressed in
dynes/centimeter. This test is extremely sensitive to the presence of oil decay products, and
soluble polar contaminants from solid insulating materials.
Good clean oil will normally result in an IFT of 40-50 dynes/cm. As the concentration of oil
contaminates increase, the IFT drops. The first sign of sludge in solution is an IFT reading in the
range of 27-30 dynes/cm. Badly deteriorated oil has an IFT of 18 dynes/cm or less.
Color
The oil color comparison test is not useful by itself. The results are only significant if there is a
marked change from one test to another. This tests consists of comparing a sample of oil against
a series of standard colored disk filters, in a specially built comparator.
Moisture Content
Wet transformer insulation is one of the most harmful conditions for a transformer. It also is
difficult to measure, because most of the moisture in a transformer is absorbed by cellulose
winding insulation. It does not stay in the oil. The tests for moisture content find the ppm (parts
per million) water content of the oil. This value is then used to approximate how wet the
insulation is. The critical value for this test is 50 ppm. When an oil sample has this concentration
of water, the paper or cellulose insulation is almost always wet.

Specific Gravity
A specific gravity measurement should be performed on new oil, but does not really serve a useful
purpose for in-service oils. They will already have been tested. Specific gravity is simply a ratio
of the mass of a given volume of liquid (oil), to the mass of an equal volume of water, at a
specified temperature. The test is made with a hydrometer.
The purpose of this test is a quick check to make sure the new oil is not contaminated. A specific
gravity more than 1.0 shows the oil is probably contaminated with askarel (PCB) or silicone. A
reading less than 0.84 shows the oil may be a paraffinic oil. The drawback of this test is it will not
detect accidental mixing with lubricating oils, hydraulic fluids, or fuel oil. These fluids have
specific gravities in the same range as insulating oil. A flashpoint test or viscosity test must be
made if this type of contamination is suspected.
Visual Examination
This test simply evaluates the visual condition of the oil. A sample is drawn and checked for
cloudiness, particles of insulation, carbon, or other suspended materials. Good oil should be clear
and sparkling. Cloudiness shows the possibility of moisture, carbon, and/or sludge.
Sediment
This is a test for sediment and soluble sludge. The test involves filtering a sample to separate the
sediment from the oil. The sample is then dried and weighed. After the sample is weighed, it is
ignited to burn off the organic sediment and reweighed. The loss in weight shows the amount of
organic sediment, the remainder is inorganic. Inorganic sediment shows contaminants like rust.
Organic sediment shows deterioration like sludge. This test does not have a definite good or bad
value. The results are given as slight, moderate, and heavy.
Power Factor
The power factor test on oil is considered a negative screening test. It measures the leakage
current through an oil. This is a measure of contamination or deterioration. The drawback of the
power factor test is that it is not specific in what it detects. It does show that polar materials are
present, other tests must be made to find out what they are.
The power factor of new oil is normally 0.05% or less. When the power factor exceeds 0.5%,
more investigation should be done.

Gas-In-Oil Analysis
This test is a dissolved gas analysis. It involves taking an oil sample, removing the gases from the
sample, and then determining their concentration. The type of gases present and their
concentration can show various problems with the transformer. Pages 348 and 351 in "A Guide
to Transformer Maintenance" give tables that are useful in evaluating the results of a gas-in-oil
analysis.
Electrical Test Data
Oil testing alone will not give a complete picture of a transformer's condition. Oil test data needs
to be looked at with electrical test data, for a complete evaluation. There are three common
electrical tests performed:
_ Insulation Power Factor
_ Transformer Turns Ratio
Insulation resistance tests generally refer to tests performed with a megohmmeter (megger). The
megger produces a high DC voltage that is applied to the insulation being tested. This DC
voltage causes a small current to flow through and over the surface of the insulation. The total
current through and over the insulation is made up of three components:
_ Capacitance Changing Current

_ Dielectric Absorption Current
_ Leakage Current
The meter on the megger measures the total current, and is calibrated to read out in ohms.
Several factors can cause large fluctuations in megger readings.
_ Equipment temperature
_ Duration of the test
_ External leakage due to dirty insulators and bushings
These variables must be controlled to prevent getting confusing test data.

Four different tests can be performed with a megger:
_ Second Spot Test

_ Dielectric Absorption Ratio
_ Polarization Index
_ Step Voltage Test
The most common test for transformers is the Polarization Index. This test involves applying
voltage to a winding for a period of ten minutes, and recording the meter value after each one
minute interval. The generally accepted minimum value at the end of the ten minute period is
1000 megohms. Lower values may be accepted for certain low-voltage windings that have a high
cross-sectional area. The other key to watch for when looking at this test data is a continuous
downward trend over a period of time. This signals an impending problem.
Insulation Power Factor
Insulation power factor gives an indication of the quality of the insulation. Each winding in a
transformer is separated from the other windings and ground by solid insulation. This solid
insulation forms an effective capacitive network.
A dielectric loss exists in each capacitance. This loss can be represented by a resistance in series
with a capacitor. The insulation power factor is defined as the ratio of the resistance to the
impedance of this combination. This is easily measured by applying a voltage across the
capacitance, and measuring the current and watts loss. This information can then be used to
calculate the power factor.
Page 402 of "A Guide to Transformer Maintenance" shows the six tests that should be performed,
and what each is measuring. The results of all six are needed to get the right picture of the
condition of the insulation.
Power factor readings of 0.03 percent are not unusual under ideal conditions. However, values
this low are not normally obtained. In-service oil-filled transformers can have power factors as
high as two percent and still be considered acceptable. Insulation power factors above two
percent should be looked at more for problems. Like the megger test, power factor readings
should be looked at for trends. Increased readings over time show impending problems.
If power factor readings are higher than normal, more tests can be performed to try and isolate
the problems. These tests are:
_ Power Factor Tip-Up Test

_ Bushing Power Factor Tests
_ Liquid Insulation Power Factor Test

Transformer Turns Ratio
Transformer turns ratio tests are performed to identify short circuited turns, wrong tap settings,
errors in turn count, mislabeled terminals, and failure in tap changers.
The turns ratio test uses the principle that the no-load voltage ratio on a transformer nameplate is
equal to the turns ratio between the primary and secondary windings. The turns ratio test does
not give the actual number of turns on the primary or secondary windings. It only gives the ratio
of primary to secondary turns.
The turns ratio that is measured should agree with the ratio calculated within _0.5 percent. More
testing should be performed if the results are outside this percentage.
Inspection Data
Analyzing the results of inspections are just as important as analyzing the results of oil and
electrical tests. A piece of auxiliary equipment that is not properly working can be just as
damaging to the transformer as deteriorated oil.
Liquid Immersed Transformers
Analyzing in-service and out-of-service inspection data for liquid immersed transformers is
relatively simple. It involves reviewing all the data on the forms to make sure all applicable items
were inspected and or tested. The results of the inspections are usually satisfactory or
unsatisfactory. Any unsatisfactory items should have the corrective action noted in the remarks.
This action should be analyzed for adequacy.
Dry Type Transformers
In-service and out-of-service inspection data for dry type transformers should be analyzed in the
same fashion as liquid immersed transformers.

WORK AID 1: IN-SERVICE INSPECTION ITEMS FOR TRANSFORMERS
1. Record current operating information as applicable.
_ Voltage (high side)

_ Current (high side)
_ Voltage (low side)
_ Current (low side)
_ Winding Temperature
_ Top Oil Temperature
_ Hot Spot Temperature
_ Pressure/Vacuum
_ LTC Cyclometer
2. Perform field tests on insulating liquid as applicable.
_ Main tank
_ Selector switch compartment
_ Contact compartment
3. Inspect and test gauges and alarms as applicable.
_ Low Liquid Level

_ Loss of AC/Potential
_ Parallel Lockout
_ Flow Gauges
_ Nitrogen Pressures

4. Inspect the paralleling unit as applicable.
5. Inspect the cooling system as applicable.
6. Inspect tap changers and controls as applicable.
7. Inspect fault gas monitor as applicable.
8. Inspect for oil leaks as applicable.
9. Perform visual inspection as applicable.
_ Pressure relief device

_ Bushings
_ Paint
_ Electrical grounds
_ Foundation
_ Louvres
_ Desiccant
_ Radiators
_ Heaters
_ Cabinets

WORK AID 2: OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS
1. Perform all of the in-service inspections.
2. Perform Power Factor (Doble) test on transformers rated above 50 MVA.
3. Perform Megger test (HV-G, LV-G, HV-LV).
_ Direct Readings
_ Corrected Readings
_ 10 Minute Readings
4. Inspect and test gauges and alarms as applicable.
_ Winding Temperature
_ Hot Spot Temperature
_ Top Oil Temperature
_ Liquid Level Indicators
_ Pressure Reliefs
5. Inspect and Test Cooling System.
_ Manual Operation
_ Automatic Operation
_ Visual Inspection of all Components
6. No-load tap changers as applicable.
7. Perform an impedance test on transformers rated above 50 MVA.
8. Repair all discrepancies noted during visual inspection.

WORK AID 3: GUIDELINES FOR ANALYZING TRANSFORMER MAINTENANCE

DATA
1. Review entire form to make sure all applicable items have been checked.
2. Make sure oil test data is in specification.
_ Color - 0.5 best, 8.0 worst

_ Acidity - Blue, Green, Yellow
_ Moisture - 50 ppm
_ Dielectric - 35 kV new, 25 kV used
3. Make sure Megger test data is in specification.
_ megohms
_ Less than 1.0 is dangerous
_ 1.0 to 1.1 is poor
_ 1.1 to 1.25 is questionable
_ 1.25 to 2.0 is fair
_ More than 2.0 is good
4. Make sure Power Factor Test Data is in specification.
_1% is maximum acceptable for windings

_2% .5% is maximum for liquid insulation
5. Make sure Turns Ratio Test Data is in specification.
_ Measured value should be _0.5% of calculated value.

GLOSSARY
immiscible Immiscible describes liquids which cannot be mixed or blended
incipient Beginning to come into being or become apparent
interface A surface forming a common boundary
louvres An opening that has slanted fixed or movable fins to allow flow of
air, but exclude rain or sun

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Engineering Encyclopedia

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Maintenance Inspections Of Transformers

Chapter : Electrical For additional information on this subject, contact

SPECIFYING IN-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS .................. 1

SPECIFYING OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS ........ 9

ANALYZING MAINTENANCE DATA IN TRANSFORMER RECORDS .......... 14

WORK AID 1: IN-SERVICE INSPECTION ITEMS FOR

WORK AID 2: OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR

WORK AID 3: GUIDELINES FOR ANALYZING TRANSFORMER

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

SPECIFYING IN-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS

In-service inspections on liquid immersed transformers are a combination of three things:

_ Current operating information

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

Transformer In-Service Inspection Report

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 2

_ Current and Voltage Readings

Current and Voltage Readings

Liquid Level Indicators

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 3

Insulating Oil Field Test

_ Acidity Test - Neutralization Number

Gauges and Alarms

_ Low Oil Level

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 4

Tap Changers and Controls

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 5

Fault Gas Monitor

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 6

Dry Type Transformers

Current and Voltage Readings

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 7

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 8

SPECIFYING OUT-OF-SERVICE INSPECTIONS FOR TRANSFORMERS

Liquid Immersed Transformers

Out-of-service inspections on liquid immersed transformers include the following:

_ In-Service Inspection Items

In-Service Inspection Items

Two different tests can be performed to measure insulation resistance.

_ Power Factors (Doble) Test

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 9

Typical Out-of-Service Inspection Report

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 10

Gauges and Alarms

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 11

The cooling equipment should be inspected and tested as follows:

_ The automatic/manual selector switch is placed in manual. This should start

Out-of-service inspections on dry type transformers include the following:

_ In-Service Inspection Items

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 12

In-Service Inspection Items

Gauges and Alarms

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 13

ANALYZING MAINTENANCE DATA IN TRANSFORMER RECORDS

_ To find out if there are problems that need immediate attention.

_ To find out if there are any indications of potential problems.

Oil Test Data

Dielectric Breakdown Strength