Transformer Oil Analysis

Analysis of the condition of oil used in oil-filled assets provides a highly accurate indication of their position in their life cycle.


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Benefits

• Tests provide an accurate assessment of internal condition of the transformer
• The condition data in conjunction with other information such as operational duty, transformer history, environment etc. is used to derive a Health Index
• Probability of failure and end of life are calculated
• Identifies degradation of specific components BEFORE they lead to failure
• Enables operators to develop effective maintenance and replacement strategies based on the condition of the transformer
• Identifies transformers that could benefit from life extension measures
• Low cost test process
• Excellent return on investment

Oil-filled transformer testing & analysis

EA Technology’s extensive experience shows that oil analysis is the most cost-effective way to assess the internal condition of oil-filled transformers. We therefore carry out the following tests:

Oil quality

Measuring moisture, acidity, solid contamination and breakdown strength of the oil gives a good indication of the overall condition of the oil and internal components. The quality of the oil is also critical in preventing premature ageing of the transformer and extending service life.

Furfuraldehyde analysis

Furfuraldehyde analysis gives a highly accurate indication of the condition of paper insulation. The furfuraldehyde content is correlated to the degree of polymerisation of the paper. When furfuraldehyde levels reach specific values, we know that the insulation has effectively broken down and the probability of failure is very high.

Dissolved gas analysis (DGA)

Analysing the levels and ratios of different dissolved gases in the oil identifies electrical discharge, arcing and thermal activity within the transformer.

Oil-filled transformer health indices

The oil analysis provides a very good understanding of the internal condition of a transformer, including the condition of specific components.

The oil analysis results are used in combination with relevant background information to create a Health Index for the asset, expressed as a numerical value on a scale of 1 – 10 from which a Probability of Failure (PoF) and estimated end of life are determined. In addition the application of an ageing algorithm enables the future performance and condition to be evaluated. This is particularly valuable for prioritising the maintenance and replacement of multiple assets and is the foundation of CBRM.