How to Detect Oil Leakage in Transformer

Look for drips.

We are doing the same at present ,we need to improve the procedure

Normally,we can find leakages but it is difficult to find minute seepage.

Also look for stains on the transformer housing and oil level changes using the sight glass which are a good sign of a leak over time. That's what we do during our regular maintenance (that and check the moisture content of the air filter).

There are other methods and products on the market to help thou, but it really depends on what you require as part of your ongoing transformer maintenance program. Oil leakage is less important than oil quality.

If you have suspicions about leaking at particular points on the transformer, you could use the leak detection spray from this company:

http://www.tdsleakseal.com/oil-leak-detection-products.htm

However, I think that would get rather expensive and time-consuming to do for a whole transformer, plus then you need to clean off all the spray powder residue left behind. Your pressurization and visual inspection approach is what is done in most cases.

Dear All,

Thanks for your reply,

Dear Peter,i have tried to contact TDS leak seal long back but there in no reply from them,is there is any other product which i can buy easily in the market?

thank you

Don't they answer the telephone, then? What - not even their Sales office?

i have send them the enquiry 3 to 4 times but they have not replied.

I don't know what your location is, but if you sent them an email, it is possible that their spam filter just blocked it out. If you are outside the USA, it would not be surprising to block an address that is foreign. Try their telephone number - it may cost you more, but it is also more likely to get a response.

Anwarall-

Get some oil/petroleum only absorbent pads, usually white, to find the leak.

You didn't say how big the transformer is but choose one of the following:

1. Wipe the transformer down (do not use solvents) with the absorbent pads. This will clean any oils, oil laden dirt or dust of the exterior. Start your pressure test again and visually inspect for oil leaks. Wipe with pads to verify any leaks seen. This method prevents any confusion with extraneous oils, grease, old leaks, etc. from hiding any leaks for the new test.

2. If transformer is small enough, clean as above and wrap the transformer with the absorbent pads. Any oil leak will show as an oil stain on the pads.

3. Put a full coverage (one pad thick) under the transformer. Pressure test. If there is an oil stain on the pads follow the path of the oil up from the soiled pad to the leak on the transformer.

Very simple and not very scientific methods but they really work! Also good for finding engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, etc. leaks from under a car. Run car, let car sit, come back later and look for spots of fluid.

Good Luck, Old Salt

Dear All,

Thank you very much for your suggestions.

I heard that we can detect oil leakages using UV lamp with suitable dye.

do anyone have idea about this,please share

anwarall-

The first questions I would ask are:

First and foremost is the dye compatible with the oil?

How well will it show up with a UV lamp in daylight?

Will the dye have any adverse effects to the transformer?

Is there any plan to verify the operation of the UV light emitting the proper light before attempting to locate oil with it?

What PPE would be required to do this?

Will it work within the ambient temperature range and the transformer temperature range?

Just a few thoughts.

Good Luck, Old Salt