Power Transformers

Transformer Protection

FERC Approves Interconnection for Talen Energy, Amazon Data Center

In a significant move that underscores the growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy to power the expanding digital infrastructure, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has approved an interconnection agreement between Talen Energy, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Exelon. This...

Dielectric Fluids

Leakers, What a Mess!

Electric Substation apparatus, transformers and circuit breakers, are the workhorses of the electric transmission grid. Our focus in this article is on the issue of dielectric media leaks. Specifically, oil in large power transformers and oil or SF6 gas in power circuit breakers. Oil and gas leaks...

Utility 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...

Transformer Testing & Maintenance

Zensol new instrument for OLTC testing

According to CIGRE A2.34, the dynamic resistance measurement or DRM (OFFLINE) is a test that offers diagnostics for several diverter or selector switch malfunctions such as: contact problems, broken springs, broken transition resistors, poor contact pressure, inadequate transition time, momentary...

Transformer Software & Technologies

Optimal Transformer Efficiency Using Weighted Average

In order to improve the efficiency of electrical distribution in commercial buildings, the US Department of Energy (DOE) introduced regulations with more stringent minimums on transformer efficiencies in January 2016. This was covered under the Code of Federal Regulations 10 CFR Part 431.192 and...

Electrical Transformers

Smart Transformers

Maximizing continuous and reliable power output, extending the life of a power transformer, and reducing maintenance costs are just a few of the benefits motivating electric utilities to move toward buying a “smart transformer”, electrical equipment integrated with Smart Grid-enabling software...

Home Transformation Power Transformers

Special Power: ‘Flexible Transformer’ Could Become The Grid’s New Superhero

The world is mobilizing to meet net-zero emission targets over the coming decades, and it seems that everywhere you look, countries are erecting wind turbines in the fields and off the coasts, switching from coal to natural gas, adding hydropower storage, and studying the next generation of nuclear reactors. One component common to all these efforts, though, remains mostly out of sight of the public, if not out of mind for electrical engineers working to...