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Advanced diagnostic measurements on power transformers

Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kraetge


OMICRON electronics GmbH

TRANSFORM Partner

Introduction of the speaker

Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kraetge

First education and practice: Electrician (-1989)

Study: High Voltage and Power Engineering @ TU Berlin (-2001)

Research @ Berlin University of Technology (TUB) (-2006)


PhD Subject: Diagnosis of the Short Circuit Performance of Power
Transformers

Product Manager @ OMICRON (since 2006)


Responsible for FRA (-2008)

Product Line Manager @ OMICRON


Responsible for PD Equipment (- 2012)

High Voltage Asset Diagnostics Manager @ OMICRON (since 2012)

Member of Cigr, IEC, DKE, Senior Member of IEEE and active in numerous
Working Groups

Nice to meet you!

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Overview

Introduction: Diagnostics what is it for?

The diagnostic toolbox

Dielectric response measurements for moisture determination

Frequency Response Analysis a global condition assessment

Partial discharge measurements and location pinpointing weak spots

Outlook

Summary

Indepth training and education the OMICRON Academy

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Introduction

Transformers are very reliable and long-lasting elements in our grids

compare 50 years of life expectancy with cars, TVs, mobile phones ;-)

If so - when is diagnostic needed?

In the factory

Type and development tests, fingerprinting

Acceptance testing to demonstrate that the unit is as ordered

Additional diagnostics if problems during these tests occure (time!)

In the field

Tests during commissioning or after a relocation

Condition assessment as basis for asset management

Deeper investigations after the occurance of suspicious results during standard


tests (e.g. DGA)

Trouble shooting after incidents (protection tripping, lightning stroke....)

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Its always the whole picture....

Routine tests

Winding resistance, ratio and vector group / phase displacement, short circuit
impedance, load losses, no load losses, lightning and switching impulse, applied
voltage withstand test, induced voltage with PD measurement, oil tests, tests of
auxiliaries

Type and special tests


Sound level measurements, heat run test, capacitances, dissipation factor, oil tests,
insulation resistance, measurement of harmonics, short circuit test, frequency
response analysis, dielectric response analysis and so on...

Transformers are highly complex


and a lot of information
is needed for a sound

condition assessment

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Exemplarily three diagnostic methods

Dielectric Response Analysis (DRA, also DFR):

Assessment of the moisture content inside the solid insulation

Frequency Response Analysis (FRA):


Diagnosis of the mechanical and electrical integrity of the active part

Partial Discharge (PD) measurement and localization:

Finding weak spots in the insulation

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Water in transformers?

Water ingress from outside (breather, gaskets)

Water is a byproduct of the cellulose aging process

Moisture content [%]

5
4
3
2
1
0

10

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

20
30
40
50
Age of the transformers [a]

60
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Whats the problem?

Water reduces the dielectric strength of the insulation

Water accelerates the aging process

Water can lead to the bubbling effect

It is important to know the water content of a transformer

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Reduced dielectric strength...

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The result...

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Where is the water?

An example: Transformer 150 MVA, 7 t cellulose, 70 t mineral oil


Cellulose Cw = 3 %
Temperature 40C

210 kg water

T+
Oil

16 ppm 1,1 kg water

The harmful water is mainly in the solid insulation.


Therefore the assessment of the moisture in the solid insulation is advisable.
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Dielectric phenomena inside an insulation

Ideal EField

Polarization

Conductivity

Equivalent circuit

Image Source: Andreas Kchler, Hochspannungstechnik, Heidelberg, 2009

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Tan A measure for the quality of an insulation


Polarization losses

Conductive losses

Itest
IR

IC
Superposition of both effects

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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A look back into history

1960+

Dissipation factor at power frequency

Polarization index

At that time: No reliable method for onsite moisture diagnostics

1991 RVM for water determination

Soon questioned by users (Kachler 1996)

1999+ Polarization Depolarization Currents

Technical University Zurich Switzerland

1999+ Frequency Domain Spectroscopy

KTH Stockholm with ABB

2007 Combination of PDC and FDS (Dirana)

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

U(t)
Ur,max

tc

U, I

t d t peak

ipol (t)

Uc (t)

TC

idep (t)

Dissipation factor

Frequency

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Measuring time an important factor

Current [nA]

Dissipation factor

100

Time [s]

1000

f > 0.1 Hz frequency domain

0,001
0,1

1000
Frequency [Hz]

Transformation

0,001
0,001

f<

1 Hz time domain

Transformation of time data to


frequency domain

1
Dissipation factor

DIRANA's patented technique:

22 min for range of


1 kHz - 1 mHz
(Traditionally several hours)
Frequency [Hz]

1000

Measuring time an important factor


Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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How to perform a DRA measurement

Amperemeter

HV-winding
LV-winding

Guard

Instrument

Voltage source

Voltage source

=
A

Current sense 1

A
Guard

Main insulation

CL

CHL

CH

Tank

LV
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

HV
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How to get from curves to moisture content

Measurement

Laboratory Results

Temperature

Oil

XY-Model
Oil

Spacers

Barriers

Comparison
Fitting
Tangent Delta

10

Water Content
Oil Conductivity

Source: Weidmann

0,1

0,01
0,0001

0,01 Frequency [Hz] 100

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Interpretation and Analysis

Dissipation factor

Pressboard:
Water, lmw
Acids

Insulation
Geometry

Oil: Carbon, Sludge, Acids

10
1

Pressboard
Overall Response

0.1

1%, 1pS/m, X30, Y15

0.01
0.001
0.0001
0.0001

0.001

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

0.01

0.1

1.0

10

100

1000
f/Hz

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A practical example (200 MVA)

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Moisture content [%]

The measurement result

IEC 60422

4
3
2

e tion
r
tu ina
s
i
Mo ntam
co
Moderately
wet

21

C
80

Wet,
> 30 %
extremely
wet

Fair
0 Dry

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

10

20
30
Moisture saturation [%]

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Before - after

What does this mean?

Before drying

Increased dielectric
strength

2.6 %

Decelerated aging

After drying

Extended remaining
life

1.5 %

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Exemplarily three diagnostic methods

Dielectric Response Analysis (DRA, also DFR):

Assessment of the moisture content inside the solid insulation

Frequency Response Analysis (FRA):


Diagnosis of the mechanical and electrical integrity of the active part

Partial Discharge (PD) measurement and localization:


Finding weak spots in the insulation

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The general approach

5.0

5.0

Transformer

U0*(1-K(f 1))

3.0

3.0

1.0

-1.0 0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1
U

1
V

1.0

1
W

1/f1

-1.0 0

1.2

-3.0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.2

-3.0

(f1)

complex RLCM-Network

-5.0

-5.0

sine generator
(variable frequency)

K(f1)

(f1)
Phase

Magnitude

transfer function (magnitude)

2.5

2.0

2.0
K(f)

transfer function (phase)

3.0

1.0

1.5

(f) 0.0

1.0

-1.0

0.5

-2.0

0.0

-3.0
0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6 0.8
Frequenz f

1.0

frequency f

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

1.2
MHz

1.4

0.0

0.2

0.4

0.6 0.8
Frequenz f

1.0

1.2 1.4
MHz

frequency f

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What can these curves tell us?

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The application

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How does it work? Fingerprinting

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How does it work? Detecting changes

C ~ 1/d
Force

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

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Forces inside a transformer?

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The main question

FRA is a comparative measurement how do I get the reference results?

We need to answer the question:


Further action required for the tested transformer?

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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A phase comparison

Phase C

Phase B
Phase A

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The results

>

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Good congruity
(Look on the
resonances!)

Phase A
Outer phases A and C

OK!

All three HV phases


Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Type based comparison

Transformer 1

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

>

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HV winding results of transformer 1

>

17/06/2013

???

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

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Type based comparison step 2

Transformer 2 (sister unit)

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

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Results of transformer 2

>

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!!!

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Comparing both transformers

>

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

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Zoomed in...

OK!
OK!
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Real world example Offshore windpark transformer

Acetylene in the Buchholz


Change in winding resistance

No FRA fingerprint available

Two LV systems

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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FRA results:

>

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!?!
Outer phases of LV system 1
Outer phases of LV system 2
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Zoomed in....

>

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Both LV systems 5 kHz 500 kHz


Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Preparations

>

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

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Lifting the transformer off the platform

>

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Transport to the repair shop

>

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Sometimes 180 MVA


can look really small

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Removed Windings Phase 1

Windings phase 1 removed


Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

Fault of the LV winding phase 1


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Defective LV winding, phase 1

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Defective LV winding, phase 1

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Time based comparison

>

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FRA fingerprint in the factory (Germany)

Re-test on-site (France)


Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The result

>

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OK!

Red curve: January 2007 in the transformer factory (Germany)


Black curve: May 2007 on site after erection (France)
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Most important requirement

The reproducibility of the traces has to be assured


For that, the connection technique (measurement cables and
grounding concept) is of paramount importance
Highest accuracy and precise documentation is essential when
performing an FRA test

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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One last remark please use the new Standard

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Exemplarily three diagnostic methods

Dielectric Response Analysis (DRA, also DFR):

Assessment of the moisture content inside the solid insulation

Frequency Response Analysis (FRA):


Diagnosis of the mechanical and electrical integrity of the active part

Partial Discharge (PD) measurement and localization:


Finding weak spots in the insulation

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

Page 51

What is partial discharge?

Insulation medium
perspex cylinder
Partial discharge activity
destroying the insulation

Needle on high
voltage potential

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

Counter electrode on
ground potential

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Consequences inside a transformer

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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...may result in a catastrophic outage

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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A recent example game over!

Transformer explosion shuts off


the lights in the stadium

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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When do we measure PD in a transformer?


50% of transformer failures are related to winding defects (Cigr A2/37)
PD measurements are an early warning indicator for developing faults.

Factory acceptance test:


Standard measurement during AC voltage tests

on all new (or repaired) power transformers.


On-site measurement:
Typically only after indication of problems

(e.g. gas-in-oil analysis indicates partial discharges or online PD


monitoring system gives alarm).

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Key gases for partial discharges

Hydrogen

Methane

Source: IEEE TC DGA Tutorial, 2006

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Gas generation due to PD

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Expected PD what are the next steps?

Evaluate how to apply high voltage

Define how to decouple signals and type of measurement


Find solutions to distinguish inner PD from external noise
Evaluate PD intensity
Identify types of PD by pattern analysis
Locate PD sources
Risk assessment
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The classical PD measurement circuit

Testing
Transformer

Coupling
capacitor

IPD
Test object
PD
fault

PD
Measuring
impedance

pCValue

This is the basis for all PD acceptance tests.


Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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The bushing as coupling capacitor

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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What can be measured?


A
Ut(t)
U1(t)

2CS
r

CF

CP/2

CP/2

Uz
UL
-UL

2CS

U'1(t)

-Uz

A
Is(t)

I1(t)

I2(t)

I3(t)

CS
R1

Ut

CP
U1
CF

I1(t)

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

U 1 .C F

i1 (t ).dt
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How does this look in practice?

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Identifying the effected phase here phase A

Phase A

Phase B

Phase C
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

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Next step localizing the fault position


3-D model in location software (PDL 650)
showing the sensor placement close to phase B

Piezo electric sensors on the transformer


tank, same places as shown in SW above

PD localization system PDL 650

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Localization results base for a risk assessment

Fault location indicated


by PDL software
and comparison to
design drawing

Acoustical signals
acquired on the tank
wall close to phase B
PD fault found in the exit lead
between winding and bushing
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Outlook

Newly developed diagnostic methods need to be standardized

Existing standards need to be adopted to state-of-theart technology

There is still a need for improved data interpretation of sophisticated


measurement methods (cooperation research and industry)

So, there is a lot of work to do lets roll!

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Summary

Dielectric Response Analysis (DRA, also DFR): is an innovative, timesaving and accurate method to determine the water content in the solid
insulation of transformers

Frequency Response Analysis (FRA): is one of the most global test


methods. It gives information about mechanical and electrical problems of
transformers active part.

Partial Discharge (PD) measurement and localization: One of the most


important technologies to detect and locate weak points in insulation system as
an early stage indication of developing faults.

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Welcome to the OMICRON Academy

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Trainings @ OMICRON

The OMICRON academy offers different kinds of training:

Scheduled trainings
Scheduled training courses take place regularly at a variety of OMICRON
Academy Training Centers at fixed dates.

Customized trainings
Customized training courses are planned specially for you and are tailored to
your requirements

Webinars
Weinars are short interactive online courese conducted on a regular basis
online and are also available for download

http://www.omicron.at/en/training/academy/
Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Finally diagnostics is just on side of the coin...

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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Im happy to answer your questions!

Thank you very much for your time!


Any questions?

Dr. Alexander Kraetge, OMICRON electronics GmbH

07.06.2013

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