Applied Complex Diagnostics and Monitoring of Special Power Transformers

As a major component in electric power systems, power transformers are one of the most expensive and important pieces of electrical equipment. The trouble-free operation of power transformers is an important criterion for safety and stability in a power system. Technical diagnostics of electrical equipment are a mandatory part of preventing accidents and ensuring the continuity of the power supply. In this study, a complex diagnostic methodology was proposed and applied for special power transformers' risk estimation. Twenty special power transformers were scored with the proposed risk estimation methodology. For each transformer, dissolved gas analysis (DGA) tests, transformer oil quality analysis, visual inspections of all current equipment on-site and historical data for the operation of each electrical research were conducted. All data were collected and analyzed under historical records of malfunctioning events. Statistical data for expected fault risk, based on long-term records, with such types of transformers were used to make more precise estimations of the current state of each machine and expected operational resource. The calculated degree of insulation polymerization was made via an ANN-assisted predictive method. Assessment of the collected data was applied to allow detailed information of the state of the power transformer to be rated. A method for risk assessment and reliability estimation was proposed and applied, based on the health index (HI) for each transformer.