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Transformer Testing & Maintenance


Advancements in Dissolved Gas Analysis: Accounting for Gas Loss

Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) in transformers is a very successful periodic screening method to identify transformers that may be having problems. It is a symptom-based assessment of health, rather than a condition-based assessment. That is because the gases themselves do not cause failure, but are...

Utility Transformers


Electrical Transformers


Advancements in Dissolved Gas Analysis: CO/CO2 Ratio

For DGA interpretation, faults identified using hydrocarbon gases are considered more serious if they appear to affect paper insulation. That is made explicit in CIGRE technical brochure 771[1]. Production of hydrocarbon gases from the oil by electrical or thermal stress does not significantly...

Dielectric Fluids


The End of the Road for Transmission Incentives

In a significant shift, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has decided to abandon its transmission incentives policy, particularly the construction work in progress (CWIP) incentives. This decision marks a pivotal change in how transmission projects are financed and regulated,...

Transformer Software & Technologies


Grounding Transformers Explained

By R. W. Hurst, Editor Grounding transformers are used to provide a path to ground for unbalanced load current and for fault currents on systems where a suitable ground is otherwise not available. Grounding transformers are normally constructed with one of the two configurations: Zig-Zag (Zn) with...

Transformer Monitoring


Power Transformers

The Role of Transformer Oil Alternatives in Improving Safety and Environmental Sustainability

The Growing Need for Safer and Greener Transformer Oils

Transformer oil plays a vital role in the operation and longevity of power transformers, providing insulation, cooling, and arc suppression. Traditionally, mineral oil has been the industry standard due to its effective dielectric properties and cost-efficiency. However, growing concerns about fire safety, environmental impact, and sustainability have driven the search for alternative transformer oils. Synthetic esters, natural esters (vegetable-based oils), and silicone fluids are emerging as...

Power Transformers Articles