Diagnostic Testing Solutions

for Power Transformers

Prevention is better than cure know more about the condition of yo

Manufacturing

Commissioning

Mechanical impacts

>> transportation event

>> post fault event
>> seismic activity event etc.

transformer condition

100 %

Keep your transformer in good co

with testing

testing during manufacturing

factory acceptance testing
commissioning acceptance testing

> periodic testing

> testing after an event relocation, protection trip or

and subsequent preventive actions

Taking the right action at the right time

Maintain OLTC

>> corroded contacts

>> diverter switch
>> motor & brake

our transformer

Operation

Replacement

Factors causing deterioration

Aging

>> overloading
>> overheating
>> moisture

Protection problems

>> protection underfunction

>> protection failure

ondition

warning, overcurrent, overvoltage, earthquake ...

transformer life expectancy

Replace parts

Processing of insulation

>> bushings
>> surge arresters
>> gaskets
>> pumps, fans, etc.

>> degassing of fluid

>> retrofilling
>> drying of transformer
>> passivators or inhibitors
3

Transformer parts and their possible faults

Part

Bushings

Bushing CTs
Insulation materials
Leads

OLTC

Windings

Core
Surge arresters
4

Faults detectable

Aging and moisture

Open or compromised measuring tap connection

Partial discharges in insulation

Current transformer analysis

Partial discharge analysis

Partial discharges

Contact problems

Mechanical deformation

Contact problems in tap selector and at diverter switch

Open circuit, shorted turns, or high resistance connections in the OLTC

preventative autotransformer, series autotransformer or series transformer

Contact problems in the DETC

Short circuits between windings or between turns

Open circuits in parallel strands

Short circuit to ground

Mechanical deformation

Strand-to-strand short-circuits

Contact problems, open circuits

Mechanical deformation

Floating core ground

Deterioration and aging

Loss of oil in an oil-filled bushing

Current ratio or phase error considering burden, excessive residual
magnetism, non-compliance to relevant IEEE or IEC standard

Shorted core laminates

Frequency response analysis

Measurement

Partial breakdown between capacitive graded layers,

cracks in resin-bonded insulation

Moisture in solid insulation

Aging, moisture, contamination of insulation fluids

Dielectric response analysis

Current transformer
testing instrument:
see CT Analyzer brochure

Dynamic resistance
Watt-loss and current
measurement

Partial discharge
analysis system:
see pages 26-29

DC winding resistance
Power factor / dissipation factor
Tip up test
Variable frequency power factor /
dissipation factor
Frequency response of stray losses

Frequency response
analysis instrument:
see pages 24-25

Exciting current

Dielectric response
analysis instrument:
see pages 22-23

Capacitance, dissipation factor /

power factor at 50 Hz or 60 Hz
Short circuit impedance /
leakage reactance
Transformer ratio

Transformer
diagnostic set:
see pages 6-21

1) Power factor / dissipation factor measurements at 50 Hz or 60 Hz can detect high moisture contents, but have a blind spot for low moisture contents. Measuring power factor /
dissipation factor at lower frequencies, such as 15 Hz, improves sensitivity. The most sensitive
5 method to determine moisture in solid insulation is dielectric response analysis. 2) If the
core ground can be opened.

All in one: the multi-functional transformer test set CPC 100 + CP TD1

DC winding resistance measurement

instrument
winding resistance

RHV

RLV

V
TR

Leakage reactance/short-circuit
impedance measurement instrument
mechanical?

I
V

TR

Frequency response of stray losses

measurement instrument
winding strands

I
V

TR

Further substation diagnostics:

> Ground impedance measurement
> Line impedance and ground factor
measurement
> Resistance measurement
> Primary relay testing

Output

Measurement

Precision

Weight

12 kV
800 A AC
400 ADC
16 Hz ... 400 Hz

V, I, P, Q, S
Cp: 1 pF ... 3 F
dissipation factor / power factor
resistance: 0,5 ... 20 k

output signal digitally generated

Cp measurement: <0.05 % error
independent from mains quality
in wave form and frequency

CPC 100:
CP TD1:

Transformer ratio measurement

instrument
NP/NS

VP

VS
TR

Transformer exciting current

test instrument
core

TR

Power factor / dissipation factor

measurement instrument
I

IR

IC

V
Insulation

Further substation diagnostics:

> Current transformer testing
> Voltage transformer testing

of units
29 kg / 65 lbs
26 kg / 56 lbs

Power supply

High voltage cable

Trolley

110 V ... 240 V

50 Hz ... 60 Hz
16 A

20 m / 65 feet
double screen
insulation supervision

to conveniently transport:
CPC 100,
CP TD1,
measurement cable,
high voltage cable

Measuring capacitance & power factor / dissipation factor

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Core

Capacitance and power factor / dissipation

factor (PF / DF) measurements are performed
to investigate the condition of bushings as well
as the transformer overall insulation. Aging and
decomposition of the insulation, or the ingress of
water, increase the energy that is turned into heat
in the insulation. The level of this dissipation is
measured by the PF / DF.
On surge arresters, currents and watt losses of
identical units can be compared. Deviations may
indicate aging effects, poor contacts or open
circuits between elements.
Damaged TR after bushin

Capacitance values of bushings show if there

have been breakdowns between capacitive
layers. For resin bonded paper bushings, cracks
into which oil has leaked, can also change the
value of the capacitance.

Polarization losses Conductive losses

Equivalent circuits *)

A rise in capacitance of more than 10 % is

normally considered to be dangerous, since it
indicates that a part of the insulation distance is
already compromised and the dielectric stress to
the remaining insulation is too high.

Preventing bushings from exploding

Typical loss shapes

Increased heat dissipation accelerates the

aging of the insulation. If an aged insulation
can no longer withstand the electrical stress,
bushingsexplode.

Better understanding of losses

At line frequency, conductive losses can be

represented with a parallel equivalent circuit.
Polarization losses can be represented by a series
equivalent circuit consisting of an ideal capacitor
and a resistor.

Superposition of both effects

Increased losses may pass a test at line frequency

unnoticed, leaving the tester unaware of an
insulation in distress. Measuring the DF / PF
over a broad frequency range helps to better
understand both types of losses.

f
Typical loss shapes in 15 Hz ... 400 Hz range

g explosion

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

High voltage is applied to the insulation to be

tested, i.e. the bushing tip, and a low loss reference
capacitor (integrated in CPTD1) is connected
in parallel. The currents flowing through the
insulation and through the reference capacitor
are measured and the time difference between
their zero crossings is determined. The loss angle
is then calculated from this time difference. The
tangent of this angle is the dissipation factor. The
cosine of the angle between voltage and current is
the power factor. Results are compared with values
given in IEEEC57.10.01 and IEC 60137, and can
be compared with a base measurement, another
phase, or a sister transformer.

If values deviate more than indicated by the

standards, then dielectric response analysis can
be performed to check for increased moisture.
Chemical tests can be performed to verify the
quality of the insulation fluid (DGA, dielectric
breakdown strength, interfacial tension, etc.)
Measuring the power factor / dissipation factor
of the insulation fluid can also be done with a
CPC 100 accessory, the CP TC12 oil test cell.

Type

Insulation

Typical new values

IEEE C57.10.01

IEC 60137

RIP

Resin impregnated paper

0.3 - 0.4

< 0.85

< 0.70

OIP

Oil impregnated paper

0.2 - 0.4

< 0.50

< 0.70

RBP

Resin bonded paper

0.5 - 0.6

< 2.00

< 1.50

Dissipation factor / power factor in % at 50 / 60 Hz and 20

Capacitive layers in bushings

OIP bushing: PF / DF variable frequency test

center conductor

CI
CJ

Grounded layer and tap

electrode on flange
OIP bushing: PF / DF tip up test

Measuring capacitance & power factor / dissipation factor

Power factor / dissipation factor (PF / DF)
measurement indicates the condition of the
liquid and solid insulation within a transformer.

Energize HV to measure CH + CHL | CH | CHL, then energize LV to measure

C L + C HL | C L | C HL - thanks to internal switching logic with guard

Power and accuracy

The CPC 100 / CP TD1 can measure capacitance
and PF / DF (tan) in laboratories, test fields and
on site.
Apowerful test voltage source (12kV, 100mA
continuous, 300mA short-term load current)
with variable frequency (15-400Hz), combined
with high accuracy measuring inputs allows fast,
effective and accurate measurements.
Prepared test procedures can guide the user
through the testing process and offer a basis for
comprehensive reporting.

LV

Modular equipment
The modular equipment (CPC100: 29 kg / 65lbs,
CP TD1: 26kg / 56lbs) can be easily transported
thanks to its sturdy cases, which can also be used
to place the instruments onto them for working
at a comfortable height, as shown on page 12.

IN A

CL

For convenient transport or mobile use such as

in test fields or in substations/power plants, the
instruments can be mounted onto a trolley.
The CPC 100 is used to control the test, i.e.:
>> Entering the voltage and frequency values
>> Where C and cos / tan shall be measured
>> Starting and stopping the test
>> Supervising the measurement progress and
intemediate results
>> Storing results on flash disk and USB memory
stick
The CP TD1 includes
>> A high voltage step-up transformer
>> A reference capacitor (pressurized gas type)
>> The unit to measure and compare currents in
amplitude and phase

Power factor / dissipation factor tip up results

10

Your Benets
> Perfect digitally generated sine wave
test signal that is independent from
power quality and line frequency
> Laboratory precision for on-site use:
<0.05 % error for capacitance Cp
> Portability (CPC 100: 29 kg / 65 lbs,
CPTD1: 26 kg / 56 lbs)
> Mobility through the use of a
specialized trolley
> Ruggedness and ergonomic design:
transport cases with wheels bring
equipment to appropriate working
height (see page12)

CHL
HV

> Automatic tests at different voltages

> Automatic tests at different frequencies:
early detection of insulation stress due
to the improved sensitivity provided by
measurements made in the range of
15 - 400 Hz

CH

> Optional measurement bandwidth

reduction to 5 Hz and averaging
of up to 20 results for precise
measurements despite strong
electromagnetic interference
> Temperature correction according to
type of insulation and relevant standard
> Internal recalibration of electronic
circuits of the CP TD1 with each
measurement
> Automatic reporting of capacitance
Cp,DF (tan , PF (cos ), power
(active, reactive, apparent), impedance
(absolute value, phase, inductivity,
resistance, Q)
> Automatic assessment if reference
values for capacitance and power
factor / dissipation factor are known
> Less wiring effort through two
measurement inputs (IN A, INB) that
can be used to measure for example
the capacitance of a bushing at the
same time as the main insulation

Power factor / dissipation factor variable frequency results

11

Measuring ratio & exciting (no-load) current

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Core
IP

The measurement is performed for assessing

possible winding damage, such as turn-to-turn
short circuits, comparing the measured ratio and
magnetizing currents to specifications, factory
measurement results, and/or acrossphases.

VP

In the factory, this measurement is performed to

verify that ratio and the vector group is correct.

V P / V S = N P / NS
Principal test setup

Ratio measurement with the CPC100

The CPC 100 measures the transformer ratio by
applying a high voltage at the HV winding of
one transformer leg. In amplitude and phase, it
measures the applied voltage and the voltage at
the LV winding, as well as the exciting (no-load)
current. The deviation from rated values is
displayed as a percentage.

Measuring ratio per tap

The CPC 100 measures ratio and excitation
current at each tap position. Each time the user
operates the tap changer, the CPC 100 automatically starts a new measurement and measures
and displays ratio, phase angle, and for each tap,
the deviation from nominal ratio is displayed as
a percentage.
For automatically measuring winding resistance
and ratio of all phases and all taps, see page 16.

Setup for automatically measuring ratio and resistance per tap (see page 16)

12

VS

TR

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

The winding ratio between primary and secondary windings is measured for each transformer
leg, applying high voltage at the HV side and
measuring on the LV side. The ratio of these
voltages, equalling the turns ratio, is calculated.
Results are compared with name-plate values
and across phases.

With the turns-ratio test, shorted turns can

bedetected. If a problem is suspected from
a DGA, a dissipation factor test, or a relay trip,
a turns-ratio test can be performed to rule
out / verify if turns are shorted.

The exciting current is the corresponding current

flowing in the HV winding if the LV winding is
open. Results are compared with a reference
measurement, or a measurement performed on
a sister transformer; in three phase transformers,
the two outer phases can also be compared.

If the exciting current test shows deviations,

and DC winding resistance and ratio test do not
show errors, then the cause may be a core failure
or unsymmetrical residualflux.

Your Benets
> Powerful AC voltage source,
controllable from 0 to 2000 V
> A perfect digitally generated sine wave
test signal that is independent from
the quality of the mains wave form

CPC 100 TRRatio test card

> Convenient and quick testing by

automatic detection of tap changer
operation as trigger for the next tap
measurement
> Exciting current measurement in
amplitude and phase
> Variable frequency for measurements
outside mains frequency for noise
suppression, if selected by the user
Exciting current [mA] per tap

> Accuracy and safety

> Automatic reporting of measured
voltage values and phase angles,
measured ratio and deviation as a
percentage, exciting current in
amplitude and phase
> Tabular and graphical result representation for every tap

Watt losses [W] per tap

13

Measuring DC winding resistance and OLTC

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Core

Winding resistance measurements are performed for assessing possible winding damage.
It is also used to check the On-Load Tap Changer
(OLTC) - to know when to clean or replace
OLTC contacts, or to know when to replace or
refurbish the OLTC itself, which has a shorter life
span than the active part of thetransformer.
In the factory, this measurement is performed to
calculate the I2R component of conductor losses
and to calculate winding temperature at the end
of a temperature test.
Burn-off at a diverter switch

Measuring resistance with the CPC 100

The CPC100 injects DC current into the winding,
measures current and voltage and then calculates
and displays the resistance. When the resistance
value is stable, the CPC100 makes the final
measurement, and reduces the test current to
zero to discharge the energy saved in the winding.
When it is safe to remove test leads, the CPC100
illuminates its green safety light.

Tapped windings and OLTC

In semi-automatic mode, the CPC100 measures
the resistance of each subsequent tap position.
Each time the user operates the OLTC, the CPC100
waits until the values stabilize, and then measures
and displays the winding resistance at this tap
position. When all taps have been measured, the
CPC100 discharges the inductive energy stored
in the winding and indicates when this process is
completed. For automatically measuring static and
dynamic winding resistance and ratio of all phases
and all taps, see page16.

Table in CPC 100 TRTapCheck test card

Dynamic resistance measurement

The OLTC has to switch from one tap position to
another without interrupting the load current.
When switching the tap changer during winding
resistance measurement, the DC current
temporarily decreases. This current decrease
should be measured and compared across
taps, as recommeded in the Cigr Transformer
Maintenance Guide445.

Winding resistance per tap

14

Switching process

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

To measure the winding resistance, the winding

under test must first be loaded with energy
(E=1/2*L*I2) until the inductance of the winding
is saturated. Then the resistance can be determined by measuring DC current and DCvoltage.
For tapped windings, this should be done for
every tap position, hence testing the OLTC
and the winding together. Results should be
compared to a reference measurement, across
phases, or with a sister transformer. In order to
compare measurements, the resistance values
have to be re-calculated, to reflect different
temperatures during themeasurements.

Results should not differ more than 1%

compared to the reference measurement.
Differences between phases are usually less
than 2 - 3 %.
Transformer turns ratio or frequency response
analysis can be used to confirm contact problems. In both cases, hot spots in the transformer
will result in a DGA indicating increased heat.
However, gas signatures are not unique and thus
do not allow for the identification of the root
cause.

Your Benets
> Convenient and quick testing by using
OLTC operation as a trigger for the next
tap measurement
> Additional condition assessment of the
individual OLTC taps through dynamic
resistance measurement, recorded
as a part of classical resistance
measurement, without extra effort
> High accuracy and safe testing through
the use of a 4-wire connection. The
CPC 100 visually indicates when it is
safe to remove test leads, even if its
power supply is interrupted during
testing. If the test leads are removed
or interrupted accidentally, the test
current will flow through the voltage
path, preventing dangerous overvoltages. If the CP SA1 accessory is in
use during such an accidental
interruption of test leads, damage to
the CPC 100 will be prevented.

Ripple per tap

> Automatically created report showing

the test duration, the resistance
value at measurement and reference
temperature, etc.
> Tabular and graphical results are
produced for every tap for easy
visualcomparison

Slope per tap

15

Automatically measuring ratio & winding resistance of all taps and all
Using the CPSB1 accessory, the CPC100 can automatically

>> measure ratio and the exciting current of all of the

Faster

taps and all phases

Safer

>> confirm the vector group

>> measure static and dynamic winding resistance of
all of the taps and all phases
This accessory helps to save a lot of time as wiring is only
necessary once. With the same cabling, both ratio and
resistance measurements can be performed.
Through the CPSB1, the CPC100 is connected to all phases
of a transformer. The up and down command inputs of the
OLTC are also connected and controlled by the CPC100 and
the CPSB1.

Ratio measurement
The CPC100 only requires the user to enter ratio and the
vector group to measure the ratio and the exciting current
for each tap of each phase automatically. For each tap,
results are compared to the specified ratio and the
deviations are displayed.

Winding resistance measurement

With the CPSB1, the CPC100 injects DC current into each
tap of each winding. The CPC100 then waits for the current
to stabilize and measures the resistance value, as well as the
data describing the switching process (dynamic resistance
measurement).

LV

The tap changer is then operated automatically until

the measurement on one transformer phase is finished.
Between measuring the different phases, the energy stored
in the windings is quickly discharged. When the windings
are fully discharged, the CPC 100 / CPSB1 automatically
switches to the next phase.
At the end of the measurement, the last winding is
discharged and the operator is notified visually that it is
safe to remove the wiring.

AC, DC, OLTC

16

phases

Measurement with witchbox

Switchbox connected to CPC 100 / CP TD1

OLTC

HV
Your Benets
> Several times faster than conventional
wiring technique:
- minimum wiring, only once for
all connections
- automatic discharging of the windings between measurements
- automatic tap changer operation
> Increased safety: no repeated climbing
up and down the transformer
> Simple workflow: a single, automatic
measurement for determining ratio
and exciting current, as well as static
and dynamic winding resistance
> Prevention of wiring errors: prior to
the measurement, wiring plausibility is
automatically checked
> Comprehensive automatic reporting
for all phases and taps

control

17

Measuring short circuit impedance / leakage reactance & frequency

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Core

The measurement is performed for assessing

possible damage/displacement of windings.
Measurements are compared over time or by
comparing phases.
In case of a short-circuit, forces work towards the
core for the inner winding and away from the core
for the outer winding. If these forces affect the
placement of windings, the leakage flux will change.
In particular, short circuits between parallel strands
of Continuously Transposed Conductors (CTCs), and
local overheating due to excessive eddy current
losses linked by the stray flux can be detected.
Regional overheating

Numerous incidents exist of asset managers

investigating the reason why their transformer is
gassing even though all standard electrical tests
show acceptable results. This illustrates that
their tools do not cover all trouble and failure
possibilities.
The Frequency Response of Stray Losses of each
phase will be nearly identical if all phases are in
good condition. An increase in frequency will
result in an increase in impedance as the skin
effect becomes more pronounced.
Just like measuring leakage reactance or short
circuit impedance at power system frequency,
the CPC 100 measures leakage reactance, or
short circuit impedance, across a frequency
range of 15 Hz ... 400Hz, as defined by the user.
It applies AC voltage to the high voltage
winding, with the low voltage winding shortcircuited. It then measures the load current
in amplitude and phase and calculates the
impedance. The measurement is performed for
each transformer phase. The user then compares
results across phases and / or over time.

Measuring frequency response of stray losses

18

response of stray losses

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

An AC source is connected to each phase of the

HV winding with the corresponding LV winding
shorted. The current and the voltage across the
HV winding are measured in amplitude and phase,
and the short circuit impedance is calculated.
Short-circuit impedance measurements should
ideally be performed over a range of frequencies,
commonly known as Frequency Response of
Stray Losses. Here, the AC source features variable
frequency. After source current and voltage have
been measured across the HV winding, the stray
losses are represented by the inductive part of the
short circuit impedance at higher frequencies.

Leakage reactance: deviations of more than 1 %

ought to be investigated with other tests such
as FRA. Differences between phases are usually
less than 2 %. Deviations of more than 3 % are
considered significant. Frequency response of
stray losses (FRSL) results can be cross-checked with
PD measurement, FRA, and DGA. If parallel strands
are shorted, higher losses in the stray channel
will cause high internal temperatures, normally
indicated by a DGA. The gas signature is not
unique and does not provide the identification
of the root cause, however. FRSL is unique in this
respect.

Leakage flux

Your Benets
> A perfect digitally generated sine wave
test signal that is independent from
power quality
HV

LV

LV

> Additional diagnostic information

through the measurement of the
leakage reactance or short circuit
impedance at several frequencies

HV

Leakage flux force direction

> Variable frequency for measurements

outside mains frequency for noise
suppression,
if selected by the user
> Accuracy and safety
> Automatic reporting of all measured
values
> Display of result as Z and , RandX,
or R and L
> Graphical results representation

FRSL test results with faulty phase C

19

Execution of diagnostic tests

1 Detailed nameplate data

The Primary Test ManagerTM

(PTM) supports you in
performing measurements and
guides you step by step through
the entire test procedure.

In order to assist you during testing,

PTM helps you in defining your
asset with specific nameplate
views. It indicates mandatory and
recommended parameters, making
data entry fast and easy.
You can enter information about
the location as well as nameplate
parameters, such as serial number,
vector group, or voltage and current
ratings.
Once the data is entered, it can be
re-used for all tests in the future.

20

2 Customized test plans

Based on the nameplate values,
PTM generates a customized
test plan according to current
standards and guidelines for each
asset. Thereby, PTM provides you
with a comprehensive test plan to
thoroughly assess the condition of
your asset.
By selecting or de-selecting
individual tests, you can tailor the
test procedure to your specific needs
with minimum effort. At the same
time, test plans can be configured in
advance to enable fast and effective
measurements onsite.

3 Easy connection due to

wiring diagrams
Pre-configured wiring diagrams,
depending on the selected asset
and connected test set, assist you
with setting up the test equipment
in the correct way.
In doing so, you minimize the
likelihood of measurement errors,
speed up your testing process and
obtain accurate test results even
faster.

4 Fully PC operated
PTM enables you to control and
operate the connected test set
directly from a computer.
Results are automatically stored and
organized in the database on your
PC and are available for analysis and
reporting. Therefore, there is no
need to retrieve test results or files
from the test equipment after
performing measurements.

5 Automatic assessment of
measurement results
Limit values can be set according to
current international standards and
guidelines. They are based on many
years of OMICRON expertise.
An automatic assessment of the test
results is displayed based on the
specified limit values. This allows a
fast, first assessment of your assets
condition.

Software-guided workow with PTM

21

Dielectric response analysis of power transformers and bushings

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Core

Dielectric response analysis is used to assess the

water content of the solid insulation (cellulose)
and thus periodically monitor its condition.
Knowing the water content is important for the
condition assessment of transformer bushings
and the transformer in its entirety.
In the factory, this measurement is used at the
end of production to control the drying procress
and to assure low moisture after drying.

Dissipation Factor
1

0,1

0,01

0,001
0,001 Hz

1 Hz

Typical shape of dielectric

Displaying the dissipation factor over a wide

frequency range provides insight into the
specific properties of the oil, the geometry of
the solid insulation in the form of spacers and
barriers, and the condition of the solid insulation
itself. This is the only method that can - noninvasively - directly measure the actual moisture
content in the solid insulation.
The method is scientifically approved by CIGR.
Aging threshold values as defined in IEC 60422
allow for an automatic insulation condition assessment and corresponding recommendations
for further actions such as transformer drying.
OMICRONs DIRANA can measure dielectric
response over an extremely wide frequency
range (10 Hz - 5 kHz). It minimizes testing time
by combining frequency domain spectroscopy
(FDS) at high frequencies and polarization and
depolarization current measurement (PDC)
at low frequencies. DIRANA also displays the
polarization index (PI) based on FDS/PDC
measurement. It thus replaces measuring
insulation resistance, delivering the same
information, but being more accurate for
moisture determination. Testing time is further
minimized by simulaneously measuring through
two channels, and the application of an intelligent curve recognition. Measurements are
ended automatically as soon as the typical shape
of the curve, including the hump, indicates that
all relevant points have been measured.

Verifying the insulation condition with DIRANA

22

Moisture and aging

of cellulose
Insulation Geometry
Oil conductivity

1000 Hz

response

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

If the dissipation factor of a transformer is

plotted against a wide frequency range, the
resulting dielectric response curve contains
information on the insulation condition.

There are no other non-invasive ways to assess

moisture in a transformer; dielectric response
analysis is unique in this respect.

The very low and the high sections contain

information on moisture and aging in the solid
insulation, while the position of the slope in the
mid range frequencies indicates the conductivity
of the liquid insulation.

Frequency

This curve is compared to model curves to

evaluate aging, particularly for assessing the
moisture content in the insulation.

f range

duration

DIRANA

comprehensive

~ 2.9 h

FDS

comprehensive

~ 6.0 h

PDC

limited

~ 5.5 h

The Karl Fischer titration method can determine

moisture content in oil or in paper, but has
several disadvantages.
For instance, to determine moisture in paper,
the method requires opening the transformer
and taking a paper sample. During the process,
the insulation itself is being damaged and the
sample takes up new moisture.

Your Benets
> Insulation condition assessment
concerning moisture / aging of
cellulose and oil conductivity
> Automatic result evaluation according
to IEC60422 (dry, moderately wet, wet,
extremely wet), indicating if further
actions are required
> Completely non-invasive measurement
> Minimum down-time: a measurement
can be performed directly after the
transformer has been shut down, as
equilibrium is not required
> Fast measurement through an
intelligent combination of methods
FDS and PDC, simultaneous
measurement with two input
channels and forecast algorithm
> Automatic compensation of the
influence of conductive aging byproducts avoiding overestimation
of moisture content
> Predefined tests for all transformer
types and bushings
> Step-by-step software guidance
> Also measure the insulation condition
of cables, generators, motors and
instrument transformers

DIRANA and accessories in sturdy case

23

Sweep frequency response analysis

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Core

Frequency response analysis (FRA) is used to

verify the electrical and mechanical integrity
of the active part of the transformer (core,
leads, windings). FRA is also ideal for further
diagnosis, if periodic testing or monitoring
identifiesirregularities.
A growing number of utilities also use FRA
during routine testing, since the method can
detect a wide range of faults while being
completely non-invasive.
FRA is the most sensitive method for detecting
mechanical deformations.

Frequency response analysis (FRA) is based

on the comparison of a reference test with an
actual test, where the reference test is usually a
fingerprint that has been previously measured.
When such a fingerprint is not available, another
phase or a sister transformer can also be used for
comparison.
For on site use, FRANEO 800 comes in a rugged
case which all necessary accessories fit into,
including a battery with sucient power
to complete the comprehensive testing of
anytransformer.
FRANEO 800 uses braids for its connections
which allow a high level of reproducibility due to
their tight connection close to the bushing using
clamps and screws.
This technique is recommended in the CIGR
brochure 342 on FRA:
> connection close to the bushing
> broad braids minimize test setup interference

For large bushings, the

influence of the measurement

setup can be reduced even
more by using two braids

24

Element forming
a unique
fingerprint

C
C
C
C
C
C
C

C
R L

R L

R L

R L

R L

R L

R L

R L

C
C
C
C
C
C
C

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

A low voltage sinusoidal signal with variable

frequency is applied to one terminal of a
winding and at the other end of the winding
the response signal is measured. The voltage
transfer function of the winding is determined
as the output / input ratio.

Frequency response analysis can detect a wide

range of faults. Some of these faults can be
confirmed by other measurements, such as DC
winding resistance, frequency response of stray
losses, short-circuit impedance / leakage
reactance, exciting current, or ratio measurement.

The transfer function of a winding depends on

the resistive, inductive and capacitive elements
of the transformer. Changes in these elements
as a consequence of a failure lead to changes in
the transfer function. Results are represented in
magnitude and phase as in a Bode diagram.

However, no other method can give as clear

an indication as frequency response analysis
can to determine whether windings have been
deformed, for example by the mechanical forces
resulting from a fault.

Your Benets
> Non-invasive detection of:
- Axial and radial winding deformation
- Displacements between high- and
low-voltage windings
- Partial winding collapse
- Shorted or open turns
- Faulty grounding of core or screens
- Core movement
- Broken clamping structures
- Problematic internal connections

Automatic comparison / evaluation of results

> Wide dynamic measuring range

(> 145 dB)
> Reproducible results thanks to
innovative connection technique,
based on IEC 0076-18, method 1
> Guided workflow for test set-up,
execution and assessment or easy
analysis without expert knowledge
> Fast measurement times due to
intelligent sweep algorithm
> Small and light-weight equipment
guarantees optimum usability
Small and lightweight FRANEO 800

25

Partial discharge analysis

Surge arresters

Bushings

OLTC

Leads

Insulation materials

Windings

Once initiated, partial discharge (PD) causes a

progressive breakdown of insulating materials
by electrical tree formation.
PD measurements are performed on the
insulation of transformers to determine the
insulations condition and to safely prevent it
from breaking down.
PD measurement is also part of the factory
acceptance test.

Core
conductor
C2

C3

C3
C1
void
oid
C2

insu

conductor

Partial discharge measurem

The OMICRON MPD PD system offers quick and

precise recording of pulses on the three phases
of a transformer using data acquisition from
three or more channels.

Digital lter
In the MPD 600 the classical analog bandpass
filter has been replaced by a digital filter using a
mathematical algorithm. Digital system design
eliminates aging effects and temperature drift
making measurements comparable and
reproducible by perfectly reproducing settings:
> the digital filter can be easily adapted
to the conditions on site by tuning its
center frequency and bandwith to minimize
disturbances with fixed frequency bands
> calibration values for charge and voltage
can be set directly on the laptop controlling
the test, fully reproducible during the next
measurement

Optical Isolation
Between individual PD acquisition units and between the acquisition units and the PC / laptop,
fiber-optics are used for the communication.
Communication with fiber-optics ensures a
continuous, disturbance-free transmission of
PD events and test voltage. The units are
supplied using a battery power supply. This
design provides complete galvanic isolation
between the individual components, minimizing
ground loops and so reducing interference.

PD analysis on a three phase transformer

26

ulation

Ccoupling

How does it work?

How can results be confirmed?

A coupling capacitor is connected in parallel

to the capacitances of the measured insulation
distance. Any charge movements within the
connected insulation distance will be reflected
in the charge of the coupling capacitor. The
resulting circulating current of the paralleled
capacitances is measured and interpreted.

A chemical dissolved gas analysis (DGA) can

also indicate partial discharges. It is impossible,
however, to locate partial discharges with DGA.

Analyzing PD means detecting and evaluating

very small discharges, while dealing with very
high test voltages, often complicated by external
disturbances.

ment

Battery powered acquisition units

The acquisition units are supplied from
rechargeable batteries, which can supply the
units for more than 20 hours. Another advantage
of battery power supply is that it eliminates
disturbances which would result from a mains
power supply.

Noise suppression through gating

Additionally, noise can be eliminated by
amplitude / phase gating, dynamic noise gating
or antenna gating. Here, one measurement
channel, which is not connected to the equipment
under test, is used as a detector for external
disturbances. Any pulse picked up by this unit is
considered to be an external disturbance and is
therefore eliminated on all other units because
internal PD cannot be detected by this antenna
channel due to the shielding effect of tank and
graded bushings.

Signals acquired simultaneously by 3 units

Multi-channel measurement
Measuring simultaneously with several channels
with synchronization accuracy in the range of
nanoseconds has several advantages:
> it minimizes the time for which high voltage
has to be applied to a suspect transformer
and speeds up testing
> it allows for real-time de-noising of the data
to minimize the influence of disturbances,
and helps separating different sources of PD
and identifying the type of PD sources

PD acquisition unit

27

Partial discharge analysis

Tuning to partial discharges (PD)
When you are listening to the radio, the audio
filter of your receiver filters out all other radio
stations, and only plays the one that you are
listening to. The MPD can use two methods for
tuning to PD sources to display only what you
want to take a closer look on.

3-Phase Amplitude Relation Diagram

Through cross-coupling, a PD pulse on one
phase in a transformer will usually appear on
all phases - with different amplitudes. Noise,
however, is external and thus produces
amplitudes that are similar on all phases.

Measurements related to each other in 3PARD or 3CFRD

By synchronously measuring on all phases the

tester can separate pulses by plotting them in the
3-Phase Amplitude Relation Diagram (3PARD).

pd cluster

Noise will create a separate cluster in this diagram,

usually in the center of the 3PARD. PD,however,
the pulses of which are often smaller than those of
noise, typically form a cluster outside the center. If
more than one PD source exists, each of them will
form a separate cluster.
When a cluster is selected, the phase-resolved
PD pattern will be shown specifically for this
cluster, facilitating pattern recognition, i.e.
determining the possible cause of a single PD
source.

3-Center Frequency Relation Diagram

Another way to separate pulses is 3-Center
Frequency Relation, which requires only one
measurement channel, for example when the
test object is a single phase transformer.
This method measures with three filters at
different measurement frequencies at the same
time. Using spectral differences, distinct internal
pulses can be separated from each other and PD
can be discriminated from external noise.
The result of the three measurements is plotted
in the 3-Center Frequency Relation Diagram
(3CFRD). The unfolding clusters in this diagram
can then be analyzed separately.

Advantages of 3PARD and 3CFRD

> allows the separation of PD activity from noise
> enables the separation of different PD sources

Separated partial discharge

> facilitates pattern recognition

28

Separated noise

Ultra high frequency PD detection

Within liquid-insulated transformers, PD can also
be measured using ultra high frequency (UHF)
sensors. PD is directly measured from within
the tank, by flanging UVS 610 sensors directly
onto it, using its natural screening effect. The
UHF620 accessory converts the signals for the
MPD. UHF measurement can also be used to
trigger an acoustic PD measurement, or as an
additional gating mechanism - then pulses from
an electrical measurement are only accepted if a
UHF pulse is also present.

UVS 610 UHF sensor (MPD accessory)

noise cluster

Your Benets
> Lightweight, scalable and
modular system
> High speed for the most
comprehensive testing
> Measuring all phases of a transformer
simultaneously with nanosecond
synchronicity
> High operator safety through optical
fibers galvanically isolated from the
PD acquisition units
> High sensitivity down to pico or even
femto Coulombs through effective
gating technology
> Separating PD sources and noise
through 3PARD / 3CFRD
> Improving the locating of PD and thus
assisting the user to make the right
follow-up decisions (e.g. if a
transformer can be repaired on-site)

29

Power transformer services, training and support

Expertise in transformer diagnostics
OMICRON employs some of the worlds most
renowned experts in transformer diagnosis.
Among them are members of working groups
concerned with transformer maintenance
and diagnosis in international standardization
bodies, such as CIGR, the IEEE, or the IEC.
They have performed numerous diagnostic
measurements on power transformers, often
as a result of customer requests.
Moreover, they have published many papers
on power transformer diagnosis, which are
available in the customer area on the OMICRON
website, together with dedicated expert forums,
moderated by OMICRON.

Result assessment support

OMICRON experts evaluating a customers results

OMICRON experts support customers in

interpreting and assessing results - such as
partial discharge patterns, or FRA fingerprints.

Technical support
High quality technical support teams also
provide answers to questions on the use of the
equipment, and are the first point of contact
should a functional problem occur. If a repair is
necessary, repair times are short - typically in the
range of less than one or two weeks.

Dedicated events
OMICRON hosts the regular Diagnostic
Measurements on Power Transformers
Workshop. There, typically over a hundred
delegates from all over the world share and
discuss case studies and recent developments
in transformer diagnosis.
Themes include best practice experiences and
solutions in transformer testing presented by
customers and new technological developments
reported by OMICRON. Informal get togethers
aid peer exchange.
Several smaller events on related subjects
targeted on the particularities of specific
geographical regions are also offered
throughout the year.
Demonstration booth at dedicated event

30

Training courses
OMICRON training courses provide a solid
theoretical and practical background and
answer a clients individual questions. Training
courses are held at either the customers site,
online through a webinar, or in one of the
OMICRON training centers wordwide.

Power transformer training topics

> Design, testing and maintenance
> Chemical diagnostic methods
> Diagnostic measurements and
residual life assessment
> Condition assessment of HV bushings
> Moisture determination and dielectric
diagnostics
Customer theoretical training

> Frequency response analysis and

interpretation
> Partial discharge measurement
> Training courses using OMICRON
technology

Your Benets
> Assistance in interpretation and
assessment of results
> Access to relevant training modules
> Dedicated conventions/conferences
> Technical assistance in equipment
usage from our technical support
teams

Customer practical training

31

> Access to scientific papers on

transformer diagnosis through the
customer area on our website

OMICRON is an international company serving the electrical power industry with

innovative testing and diagnostic solutions. The application of OMICRON products
allows users to assess the condition of the primary and secondary equipment on
their systems with complete confidence. Services offered in the area of consulting,
commissioning, testing, diagnosis and training make the product range complete.
Customers in more than 140 countries rely on the companys ability to supply leadingedge technology of excellent quality. Service centers on all continents provide a broad
base of knowledge and extraordinary customer support. All of this together with our
strong network of sales partners is what has made our company a market leader in the
electrical power industry.

For more information, additional literature,

and detailed contact information of our
worldwide offices please visit our website.

www.omicronenergy.com

OMICRON L2528, October 2015

Subject to change without notice.