Advanced Transformer Diagnostics: Sweep Frequency Response Analysis

Joseph Aguirre, MeggerFeatures, Summer 2024 Features

Transformer diagnostics play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and longevity of power systems. Understanding the condition of power transformers is essential for preventing unexpected failures and minimizing downtime, which can have significant economic and operational impacts. Sweep frequency response analysis (SFRA) emerges as a powerful tool in transformer diagnostics, offering valuable insights into the transformer’s mechanical integrity, electrical …

Power Factor and Sweep Frequency Testing in Transformers

Matthew Wallace, CBS Field ServicesFeatures, Summer 2024 Features

At best, an equipment failure is a costly inconvenience. At worst, it can affect the entire country and impact Wall Street. Consider BP’s refinery in Whiting, Indiana — the largest in the Midwest, according to BP, producing 440,000 barrels per day of crude oil. On February 1, 2024, Reuters reported that the refinery had shut down unexpectedly, and in a …

Best Practices for Ratio Verification of Power Transformer CTs

Thomas Bischof and Fabiana Cirino, OMICRON electronics Corp.Features, Summer 2024 Features

Current transformers (CTs) are essential for reliable and safe operation of electrical power networks. They function as the link between the primary system, which includes the assets directly involved in the energy flow, and the secondary system consisting of the protection, control, and metering devices. CTs do this by transforming high primary currents into the more measurable quantities used by …