Dry-type transformers are highly susceptible to damages and hazards if they are not maintained regularly. Regular checks and inspections are important to ensure that the dry type three-phase transformer doesn’t require unnecessary repairs. It will eliminate any time wasted for accidental requirements and improve the overall operation of the transformer. Whether it’s an autotransformer or a high-voltage step-up transformer, every dry type transformer requires regular monitoring and maintenance for swift operations.
Dry-type transformers require proper maintenance to increase their lifespan. With scheduled maintenance and checkups, the transformer is less likely to wear out quickly.
It will help to check any signs of rusting, corrosion, insulation deterioration and more. Frequent inspections will help eliminate all such problems and maintain the right airflow.
In this article, we will focus on a few things that can be done for proper dry type three-phase transformer maintenance. We have highlighted the different things that should be included in regular maintenance and checkups to prevent the high-voltage step-up transformer from further decaying. Let’s have a look at it in detail.
Proper dry type transformer maintenance: Things to do
Before any inspection or maintenance takes place, ensure that no energy is flowing through it. It is better to inspect while the transformer is energized. In some cases, tests can be conducted in energized transformers – but it should be avoided otherwise. Here is a list of things to do for dry type transformer maintenance –
1. Energized inspection
While the professionals should carry out maintenance activities only when the transformer is de-energized, an inspection can be done when it is active and energized. Look for any kind of dust or dirt particles that might hinder the proper airflow.
If there’s a lot of dust, then the transformer must be regularly inspected every 6 months. Any unusual sounds while the dry-type autotransformer is in operation is a sign of a mechanical anomaly that needs to be taken care of.
2. De-energized maintenance
The next step should be to de-energize the transformer and perform maintenance. It involves cleaning the dust and dirt from the inner and outer components. Cooling fans and windings are the most susceptible to dust particles.
Use a vacuum to clean it out. Do not use any kind of chemical cleaner to clean the area as it might damage any component or lead to an electrical hazard. Fix and screw tight any accessories of the dry type transformers that might be loose.
3. Check for defects
Checking for defects involves looking for telltale signs of problems and issues with the components. If the insulation and surface show any discolouration it means that the transformer is overheating. It could also be a sign of a loose connection.
These components need to be repaired as quickly as possible to avoid any damage to the high-voltage step-up transformer. If there are any issues with the windings, fix them quickly. Look for any noise that the transformer makes apart from the usual ones.
4. Perform routine tests
There are various tests that need to be conducted for checking the dry-type transformers for their performance. The Turns Ratio Test is required when there are signs of any electrical problems.
A professional can carry out the test with the right equipment. The dielectric test is conducted for 10 minutes from windings to windings or winding to the ground. It delivers a polarization index, which should be greater than 20.
Thus transformer’s effectiveness can be easily measured and proper maintenance can be carried out. Dry-type transformers work long enough if they receive the proper care and regular inspection.
Also read: Choosing The Right Choice of Transformer – Dry Type or Liquid-Filled
