Transformer maintenance and oil analysis

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Oil analysis and periodic transformer maintenance

Transformer maintenance plays a very important role in the operation of an electrical substation. As electrical devices that normalize the voltage of an alternating current allowing the power to be maintained at stable levels, it is necessary to perform the relevant maintenance to increase theirs lifespan.

The relevance of transformers, at present, is of such magnitude that on their efficiency depends the performance of substations, generation plants, urban areas or thermoelectric plants. Pollution, humidity or even heat can be some of the factors that trigger a series of failures in their operation.

With the aim of increasing their lifespan, at Enel Colombia we provide you with an oil analysis that will help reduce the risks of failure, as well as improve the reliability of their operation. With our services, you will minimize the electrical risks for your staff and avoid, in addition to unusual temperatures, strange sounds or hums.

Do you know what our types of oil analysis are?

1. Dielectric Analysis

Knowledge of the state of the paper-oil isolation system of the transformer to maintain the operation in reliable conditions, or to plan the preventive or corrective maintenance required according to the result obtained from the diagnosis.

Set of tests to determine the chemical quality of the oil, the water percentage and the degree of impregnation of oxidation products in the insulating paper.

An oil sample is taken and the following tests are carried out:

Dielectric strength Standard astm d- 877: 07
Moisture content Standard astm d-1533: 00 (05)
Neutralization number Standard astm d- 974: 08
Specific Gravity Standard astm d-1298: 99 (05)
Interfacial tension Standard astm d- 971: 99a (04)
Color Standard astm d-1500: 07

Power or distribution transformers immersed in insulating mineral oil located on floor.

2. Chromatographic analysis

Identify possible electrical or thermal faults inside the transformer to avoid unexpected output.

Set of tests to detect the presence of combustible gases such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, ethylene, acetylene, and others such as carbon dioxide. Then, based on the concentration of each of them and some relationships in the composition, incipient or advanced failures are diagnosed, such as internal discharges, crown effects, and overheating of oil or cellulose.

Oil sample taken for analysis in chromatograph and presentation of results indicating the diagnosis in case there is a high concentration of one or several components.

Power or distribution transformers immersed in insulating mineral oil located on floor.

3. PBC Analysis

It allows taking the necessary actions to protect the environment and people from the effects caused by improper handling.

Analytical colorimetric screening test used to determine the presence of chloride ions, and therefore the possible presence of PCB, in dielectric oil.

According to the environmental commitment signed by Colombia in the Stockholm agreement, the equipment owners must deliver the PCBs inventory before 2024.

Take a sample of 100 ml dielectric oil for quantitative analysis of Polychlorinated Biphenyls by gas chromatography according to Standard ASTM D4059-00 (2010).

Transformers of power, distribution and/or equipment immersed in insulating mineral oil, located on floor.

4. Furan content analysis

Identify the remaining lifespan of the transformer and therefore the productive time in safe conditions.

Set of tests to assess the concentration of the furfulaldehyde derivatives that result from the thermal degradation of the cellulose incorporated in the solid insulations of the transformer.

By analyzing an oil sample, the content of furanic compounds can be determined, the presence of which shows a thermal wear of the paper.

Power or distribution transformers immersed in insulating mineral oil, whose operation is more than 12 years and are located on floor.

Discover some of the advantages of working with us:

Experience

Over 20 years offering energy solutions and accompanying Colombian companies in their growth and electric infrastructure projects.

Safey

First Public Services Company in Latin America certified in Oshas 1800, which endorses the development of projects with qualified personnel and high occupational safety standards.

Support

Guarantees for your works and projects: quality, reliability, RETIE and RETILAP certification (if applicable), compliance with regulations and financing through your energy bill.

Reduce electric risks on your installations performance and guarantee the optimum performance of your equipments, schedule your personalized appointment filling up this form or call now 6016000 option 1 in Bogotá or 01 8000 935946 for the rest of the country.

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