Q.1Explain the significance of maintenance of power transformer.

Distinguish between
major and minor repair work
The maintenance of power transformers is crucial for ensuring their reliable and efficient
operation. Power transformers are vital components in electrical power systems as they step up
or step down voltage levels for transmission and distribution of electricity. Here are the
significances of maintaining power transformers:
1. Reliability: Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they lead
to transformer failures or breakdowns. By keeping transformers in optimal condition,
maintenance reduces the risk of power outages and ensures uninterrupted power supply.
2. Efficiency: Proper maintenance helps maintain the efficiency of power transformers. Regular
inspections, cleaning, and testing of components ensure that the transformer operates at its
maximum efficiency, minimizing energy losses and reducing operational costs.
3. Equipment lifespan: Effective maintenance practices, including timely repairs and
replacements, extend the lifespan of power transformers. By detecting and rectifying problems
early on, maintenance helps prevent further damage and deterioration of transformer components,
prolonging their operational life.
4. Safety: Ensuring the safety of power transformers is another crucial aspect of maintenance.
Regular inspections help identify potential safety hazards such as loose connections, insulation
degradation, or oil leaks. Addressing these issues promptly minimizes the risk of accidents, fire
hazards, and environmental damage.
Now, let's distinguish between major and minor repair work in power transformers:
Major Repair Work:Major repair work involves extensive and complex procedures that require
specialized knowledge and equipment. It typically includes the following tasks:
1. Rewinding: When the transformer's winding insulation deteriorates or fails, rewinding is
necessary. This process involves removing the existing windings and replacing them with new
ones.
2. Core repair or replacement: If the transformer core becomes damaged, it may require repair or
replacement to restore its integrity. This process involves dismantling the transformer and
addressing issues with the core laminations.
3. Oil reclamation: In case the insulating oil degrades or becomes contaminated, a major repair
may involve oil reclamation. This process removes impurities from the oil, restoring its dielectric
strength.
Minor Repair Work: Minor repair work refers to routine maintenance tasks that can be
performed without significant disassembly or replacement of major components. Some common
examples of minor repair work include:
1. Cleaning and inspection: Regular cleaning of transformer components, such as bushings,
cooling fans, and insulators, helps remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants. Inspection involves
visually examining components and conducting tests to identify any anomalies or signs of
degradation.
2. Oil testing and replacement: Periodic testing of the transformer oil's dielectric strength, acidity,
and moisture content helps assess its condition. If the oil fails the tests or becomes deteriorated,
it may require replacement.
3. Tightening and re-torquing: Ensuring proper electrical connections by tightening and re-
torquing bolts, nuts, and busbar connections prevents loose connections and reduces the risk of
overheating or arcing.
4. Lubrication: Applying lubricants to moving parts, such as fans, bearings, and tap changers,
ensures their smooth operation and reduces friction.
Q.2 state and explain main parts of 3 phase transformer
A 3-phase transformer is a device that is used to transfer electrical energy between three-phase
systems. It consists of several main parts, each serving a specific purpose in the operation of the
transformer. The main parts of a 3-phase transformer are:
1. Core: The core is the central part of the transformer and provides a path for the magnetic flux.
It is typically made of laminated steel sheets to minimize eddy current losses. The core is designed
to efficiently transfer the magnetic field between the primary and secondary windings.
2. Windings: The windings are conductive wires wound around the core. A 3-phase transformer
has three sets of windings: primary windings, secondary windings, and sometimes tertiary
windings. The primary windings receive the electrical energy from the power source, while the
secondary windings deliver the transformed voltage to the load. Tertiary windings are optional
and may be used for specific applications such as voltage stabilization.
3. Insulation: Insulation is used to electrically isolate the windings from each other and from the
core. It prevents the flow of current between the windings, which could cause short circuits and
damage the transformer. Insulating materials such as varnish, enamel, or insulating tapes are used
to coat the windings and provide electrical insulation.
4. Tap Changer: The tap changer is a mechanism that allows for adjusting the voltage ratio of the
transformer. It consists of taps or connection points along the windings that can be selected to
change the turns ratio. This allows the transformer to compensate for variations in the supply
voltage or load conditions, ensuring a stable output voltage.
5. Cooling System: Transformers generate heat during operation due to energy losses. A cooling
system is used to dissipate this heat and maintain the transformer within safe operating
temperatures. Common cooling methods include air cooling, oil cooling, or a combination of
both. Cooling fins or radiators are often used to increase the heat dissipation surface area.
6. Protection Devices: Transformers are equipped with various protection devices to ensure their
safe and reliable operation. These devices include overcurrent relays, overvoltage protection,
temperature sensors, and pressure relief devices.
Q.3 Short note on 1] Breather, 2]oil conservator
Breather and Oil Conservator are two important components used in oil-filled transformers to
maintain the insulation integrity and prevent damage caused by temperature changes and oil
expansion. Here's a short note on each:
1. Breather:
A breather is a device installed on the conservator tank of an oil-filled transformer. Its primary
function is to prevent moisture from entering the transformer during the cooling and heating
cycles. Moisture can degrade the insulating properties of the oil and accelerate the aging of the
transformer. The breather consists of a silica gel or molecular sieve desiccant that absorbs
moisture from the air entering and leaving the conservator tank. As the air passes through the
breather, it is dried, ensuring that only dry air comes into contact with the transformer oil. When
the desiccant becomes saturated with moisture, it can be regenerated or replaced to maintain its
effectiveness.
2. Oil Conservator:
An oil conservator is a tank connected to the main transformer tank that helps manage the
expansion and contraction of the transformer oil with temperature changes. The conservator tank
is partially filled with oil, and its main purpose is to provide a cushion for the expansion and
contraction of the transformer oil as it heats and cools. As the oil expands with temperature, it
flows from the transformer tank into the conservator tank. Conversely, as the oil cools, it
contracts, and the oil from the conservator tank flows back into the transformer tank to maintain
a constant oil level. The conservator tank also incorporates a breathing arrangement, typically
including a breather, to ensure that the air inside remains dry and free from moisture.
Together, the breather and oil conservator play crucial roles in maintaining the insulation
properties and preventing damage in oil-filled transformers. The breather keeps the air dry and
prevents moisture ingress, while the oil conservator accommodates oil expansion and contraction,
ensuring the transformer operates within safe limits.
Q.4 State the types of testing of transformer? Explain any two types of testing of
transformer
There are various types of testing conducted on transformers to ensure their proper functioning,
reliability, and compliance with safety standards. Some of the commonly performed tests on
transformers include:
1. Routine Tests: These tests are performed during the manufacturing process to verify the
electrical and mechanical characteristics of the transformer. Routine tests include measurement
of winding resistance, impedance voltage, no-load loss, and load loss. These tests help to ensure
that the transformer meets the specified performance criteria and quality standards.
2. Type Tests: Type tests are conducted on a representative unit of a particular transformer design
to validate its performance under specific conditions. These tests are typically more rigorous and
comprehensive compared to routine tests. Type tests include impulse voltage tests, temperature-
rise tests, short-circuit tests, and measurement of sound level and harmonics. They are carried
out to evaluate the transformer's ability to withstand abnormal operating conditions and to
determine its thermal and electrical behavior.
3. Special Tests: Special tests are conducted on transformers for specific applications or to
investigate particular aspects of their performance. These tests may include noise level
measurement, insulation resistance measurement, polarization index test, and frequency response
analysis. Special tests are often performed when there are specific concerns or requirements
related to the transformer's operation or performance.
Now let's explain two types of testing in more detail:
a. Impulse Voltage Test: The impulse voltage test is a type of high-voltage test performed on
transformers to assess their insulation strength against lightning surges or switching impulses. In
this test, high-voltage impulses of specified magnitude and wave shape are applied to the
transformer windings. The test evaluates the ability of the transformer insulation to withstand
transient overvoltages and ensures that it will not break down under such conditions. The impulse
voltage test is important to ensure the reliability and durability of the transformer insulation
system.
b. Short-Circuit Test: The short-circuit test is conducted to determine the impedance and losses
of a transformer under short-circuit conditions. In this test, a low-voltage source is connected to
the low-voltage winding of the transformer, while the high-voltage winding is short-circuited.
The test measures the current, voltage, and power losses during the short-circuit condition. It
provides valuable information about the transformer's ability to handle short-circuit currents, its
impedance values, and its overall efficiency. The short-circuit test is crucial for assessing the
performance and protection requirements of the transformer in real-world scenarios.
These are just two examples of the various types of testing conducted on transformers. Each test
serves a specific purpose in evaluating different aspects of the transformer's electrical, thermal,
and mechanical performance, ensuring its safe and reliable operation.
Q.5 State the types of testing of transformer oil? Explain the acidity test in transformer oil
The testing of transformer oil is essential to assess its quality, determine the presence of
contaminants, and evaluate the condition of the transformer insulation. Some common types of
testing performed on transformer oil include:
1. Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA): This test analyzes the composition and concentration of gases
dissolved in the transformer oil. It helps detect the presence of abnormal gas levels, such as
hydrogen, methane, ethane, and ethylene, which may indicate potential faults or arcing within
the transformer.
2. Dielectric Strength Test: The dielectric strength test measures the ability of transformer oil to
withstand electrical stress without breakdown. It determines the oil's breakdown voltage, which
is an important indicator of its insulation properties and overall health.
3. Acidity Test: The acidity test, also known as the neutralization number or acid number test, is
conducted to determine the acidity of the transformer oil. It assesses the level of acidic
constituents present in the oil, primarily caused by the oxidation and aging of the insulation
materials.
Explanation of the Acidity Test:
The acidity test is performed using a sample of transformer oil and involves the following steps:
1. Sample Collection: A representative sample of transformer oil is collected from the
transformer. The sample should be taken in accordance with proper sampling procedures to
ensure its accuracy and representativeness.
2. Titration: In the laboratory, a measured quantity of the oil sample is mixed with a suitable
solvent and indicator solution. The mixture is then titrated with a standardized alkaline solution,
typically potassium hydroxide (KOH) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The alkaline solution
neutralizes the acidic components present in the oil.
3. Endpoint Determination: During the titration, the color of the indicator changes from acidic to
basic as the alkaline solution reacts with the acids in the oil. The point at which the color change
occurs is called the endpoint. It indicates that all the acidic constituents have been neutralized.
4. Calculation: The acidity or acid number is determined by calculating the volume of the alkaline
solution used to reach the endpoint and applying the appropriate formula. The acid number is
expressed in milligrams of potassium hydroxide per gram of oil (mg KOH/g).
The acidity test provides valuable information about the degree of oil oxidation and degradation.
As transformer oil ages, its acidity tends to increase due to the formation of acids through
oxidation processes. Higher acidity levels may indicate the presence of deteriorating insulation
or contamination. Regular monitoring of acidity helps identify the need for oil treatment or
replacement to maintain the transformer's insulation system in good condition.
Q,6 State and explain factors affecting life of transformer
The life of a transformer is influenced by several factors that can impact its performance,
reliability, and overall longevity. Understanding these factors is important for proper
maintenance and ensuring the transformer operates within its expected lifespan. Here are some
key factors that can affect the life of a transformer:
1. Loading Conditions: The loading conditions play a significant role in determining the life of a
transformer. Operating a transformer at or near its rated capacity for extended periods can lead
to increased thermal stress, accelerated aging, and reduced insulation life. Overloading the
transformer beyond its design limits can cause excessive heating, insulation breakdown, and
premature failure. Proper load management and ensuring that the transformer operates within its
specified loading limits are crucial for maximizing its life.
2. Temperature: Temperature has a significant impact on transformer life. Elevated operating
temperatures accelerate the aging process of the transformer insulation and other components.
Overheating can lead to thermal degradation, reduced dielectric strength, and increased risk of
insulation failure. Proper cooling mechanisms, such as adequate ventilation or cooling systems,
are essential to maintain the transformer within acceptable temperature limits and prolong its life.
3. Insulation Condition: The condition of the transformer's insulation system is critical for its
longevity. Over time, insulation materials can degrade due to factors like temperature, moisture,
electrical stress, and chemical contamination. Degraded insulation can lead to reduced dielectric
strength, increased risk of short circuits, and overall deterioration of the transformer's
performance. Regular inspections, diagnostic tests, and maintenance measures to monitor and
preserve the insulation integrity are vital for extending the transformer's life.
4. Maintenance and Servicing: Proper maintenance and timely servicing significantly impact the
life of a transformer. Regular inspections, cleaning, oil testing, and preventive maintenance help
identify and address potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Routine
maintenance activities include oil filtration, bushing inspections, gasket replacement, tightening
of connections, and thorough cleaning. Following manufacturer recommendations and industry
best practices for maintenance and servicing can greatly contribute to prolonging the
transformer's life.
5. Environmental Factors: The operating environment can affect the life of a transformer.
Exposure to harsh weather conditions, excessive humidity, corrosive atmospheres, and
contaminants can degrade the transformer's components over time. Adequate protection
measures, such as enclosures, insulation barriers, and proper location selection, should be
implemented to shield the transformer from adverse environmental factors.
6. Electrical and Mechanical Stress: Transformers are subjected to electrical and mechanical
stresses during their normal operation. Frequent switching, fault currents, voltage transients, and
mechanical vibrations can impact the insulation system, winding connections, and core structure.
Design considerations, such as robust construction, suitable insulation materials, and appropriate
protection devices, can help mitigate these stresses and enhance the transformer's life.
Q.7 Explain the maintenance of buchholz relay
The Buchholz relay is a protective device used in oil-filled transformers to detect and respond to
internal faults, such as the presence of gas or oil flow abnormalities. Maintenance of the Buchholz
relay is essential to ensure its proper functioning and reliable operation. Here are some key
aspects of maintaining a Buchholz relay:
1. Visual Inspection: Perform regular visual inspections of the Buchholz relay to check for any
physical damage, loose connections, or signs of oil leakage. Ensure that the relay is securely
mounted and properly aligned. Inspect the alarm and trip contacts for any signs of corrosion or
buildup that may affect their electrical conductivity.
2. Cleaning: Keep the Buchholz relay clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft brush
or compressed air to remove any accumulated contaminants that could hinder the movement of
the relay's components. Avoid using solvents or aggressive cleaning agents that may damage the
relay.
3. Oil Level Check: The Buchholz relay is connected to the transformer's oil-filled piping system.
Regularly check the oil level in the relay's housing. The oil level should be within the specified
range indicated on the relay. If the oil level is low, it may indicate a potential oil leak or improper
oil flow. Investigate and rectify any issues promptly.
4. Functionality Testing: Periodically test the functionality of the Buchholz relay. This can be
done by simulating alarm and trip conditions. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines or specific
relay documentation for the recommended test procedure. Verify that the relay is responding
correctly to the simulated fault conditions and that the alarm and trip contacts are operating as
intended.
5. Gas Sampling and Analysis: The Buchholz relay is designed to detect the presence of gas in
the transformer oil. As part of maintenance, periodically collect oil samples from the relay's gas
sampling ports and send them for laboratory analysis. The gas analysis can provide valuable
information about the nature and concentration of fault gases, helping identify potential internal
faults in the transformer.
6. Calibration and Adjustment: If the Buchholz relay has adjustable settings or calibration
parameters, follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper calibration and adjustment. Ensure
that the relay is set according to the specific requirements and characteristics of the transformer.
Regular calibration helps maintain the accuracy and reliability of the relay's operation.
7. Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities
performed on the Buchholz relay. This includes inspection dates, test results, calibration records,
and any corrective actions taken. This documentation serves as a reference for future
maintenance, troubleshooting, and evaluation of the relay's performance over time.
Q.8 Describe the procedure followed to undertake breakdown maintenance of dry type
power transformer
Breakdown maintenance, also known as corrective maintenance or reactive maintenance, refers
to the repair or restoration actions taken after a transformer has experienced a failure or
breakdown. Here is a general procedure that can be followed for undertaking breakdown
maintenance of a dry-type power transformer:
1. Identify and Assess the Failure: The first step is to identify the failure or breakdown in the
transformer. This can be done through visual inspection, diagnostic tests, or monitoring systems
that detect abnormal conditions such as overheating, abnormal noises, or loss of electrical output.
Assess the extent and nature of the failure to determine the required repair actions.
2. Isolate and De-Energize the Transformer: Ensure the transformer is safely disconnected from
the power supply by isolating and de-energizing it. Follow appropriate lockout/tagout procedures
to prevent accidental re-energization during maintenance activities. This step is crucial for the
safety of the personnel working on the transformer.
3. Conduct Preliminary Investigation: Before initiating repair work, conduct a preliminary
investigation to determine the root cause of the failure. This may involve reviewing maintenance
records, analyzing historical data, and conducting visual inspections. Identify any underlying
issues or contributing factors that led to the failure.
4. Prepare the Work Area: Ensure the work area is clean, organized, and properly prepared for
the repair activities. Arrange the necessary tools, equipment, and materials required for the
specific repair task. Follow safety protocols and guidelines to create a safe working environment.
5. Repair or Replace Faulty Components: Based on the nature of the failure, repair or replace the
faulty components of the transformer. This may include damaged windings, insulation, terminals,
cooling systems, or other electrical or mechanical parts. Follow manufacturer instructions,
engineering specifications, and industry best practices for carrying out the repairs.
6. Perform Testing and Inspection: After completing the repairs, perform testing and inspection
to ensure the transformer is functioning correctly and safely. Conduct electrical tests such as
insulation resistance measurement, winding resistance measurement, and impedance tests. Verify
the integrity of the repaired components and ensure proper connections.
7. Reassemble and Reconnect the Transformer: Once the testing and inspection are successful,
reassemble the transformer and restore the necessary connections. Follow the appropriate
procedures for reconnecting the transformer to the power supply. Ensure all safety measures and
precautions are in place before re-energizing the transformer.
8. Post-Maintenance Evaluation: After the transformer is back in operation, monitor its
performance and conduct follow-up inspections to ensure the effectiveness of the repair work.
Evaluate the success of the breakdown maintenance and identify any additional measures
required to prevent similar failures in the future.
Q.9 Short note 1] Bushing 2] Temperature indicator
1] Bushing:
A bushing is an essential component of electrical equipment, including transformers, switchgear,
and circuit breakers. It serves as an insulated interface between the live conductors inside the
equipment and the external electrical connections. The primary purpose of a bushing is to provide
electrical insulation and mechanical support to the conductors while allowing for the safe passage
of current.
Bushing construction typically involves a conductor, an insulating material, and an external
protective covering. The conductor allows the electrical connection to the external circuit, while
the insulating material prevents the current from flowing to the grounded metal parts. The
external protective covering shields the bushing from environmental factors, such as moisture,
dust, and chemical contaminants.
Bushing types can vary depending on the application and voltage level. Common types include
porcelain bushings, composite bushings, and oil-impregnated paper bushings. Each type has its
own characteristics and advantages, such as high dielectric strength, mechanical robustness, and
resistance to environmental stresses.
Regular inspection and maintenance of bushings are crucial to ensure their integrity and proper
functioning. Inspections may involve visual checks for cracks, signs of overheating, or damage
to the protective covering. Additionally, electrical tests, such as insulation resistance
measurements and partial discharge measurements, can be conducted to assess the insulation
condition.
2] Temperature Indicator:
A temperature indicator, also known as a temperature gauge or thermometer, is a device used to
measure and display the temperature of an electrical or mechanical system. In the context of
transformers, temperature indicators are employed to monitor the temperature of the
transformer's windings, oil, or specific hotspots within the transformer.
Temperature indicators for transformers are typically designed to withstand the operating
conditions of the transformer environment, including high temperatures and oil immersion. They
are usually equipped with a sensing element, such as a temperature sensor or a bimetallic strip,
which responds to changes in temperature and converts them into electrical signals.
The temperature readings provided by the indicator are crucial for monitoring the transformer's
thermal condition. They help ensure that the transformer operates within its temperature limits,
preventing overheating and insulation degradation. Abnormal temperature rises can indicate
problems such as overloading, poor cooling, or faults within the transformer.
Modern temperature indicators often include additional features such as digital displays,
programmable alarms, and communication interfaces for remote monitoring and control. Some
temperature indicators can also record and store temperature data for trend analysis and
preventive maintenance purposes.
Regular calibration and verification of temperature indicators are essential to maintain their
accuracy and reliability. Comparing the readings with calibrated reference devices can ensure the
temperature measurements are within an acceptable range. If any discrepancies are identified, the
temperature indicator may need recalibration or replacement to ensure accurate temperature
monitoring of the transformer.
Overall, temperature indicators play a critical role in monitoring and managing the thermal
conditions of transformers, enabling proactive maintenance and preventing potential issues
associated with excessive temperatures.