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Anonymous Poster #1

Generator Step Up Transformer Storage Condition

01/12/2014 4:23 AM

I would like to discuss about the storage of Power Transformer. We are having 313 MVA and 195 MVA Power Transformer at our power generation site. Plant was running till 2012. But since last one year plant is in shut down condition and it will be in this condition for next 1 or 2 year. Currently transformer is in charged conditions. But, now Top managers are insisting to make it off to cut the no load losses. So what should do in this condition to maintain the transformer in good condition. Is it advisable to make it off for longer period ? We asked OEM, but they are saying to store the transformer with maintaining the all parameters as it is in charged condition.

please give suggestion or share your experience in the matter.

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#1

Re: Generator Step up Transformer Storage condition

01/12/2014 7:47 AM

I'll take a wild guess.

Store the transformer in the same manner it was when it arrived, and before it was hooked up.

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#2

Re: Generator Step up Transformer Storage condition

01/12/2014 9:35 AM

Open the transformers up and pour out all the electrons inside. Seal the wires with neutron sealer so that no more electrons can go back into the transformer.

As an additional precaution, you can spray the transformers with clear anti-static coating, so stray electrons can't see them.

If this fails, consult the OEM.

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Anonymous Poster #1
#3
In reply to #2

Re: Generator Step up Transformer Storage condition

01/12/2014 11:06 AM

Thanks Lyn. . . .

I appreciate your comments.

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#5
In reply to #2

Re: Generator Step up Transformer Storage condition

01/12/2014 11:48 AM
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Anonymous Poster #1
#4

Re: Generator Step up Transformer Storage condition

01/12/2014 11:09 AM

Parameters i.e insulation, oil etc

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#6

Re: Generator Step up Transformer Storage condition

01/12/2014 11:54 AM

You asked the OEM and they gave you an answer. Follow their advice. If you do not understand their advice you should ask them for an explanation. I suspect their "charged condition" refers to these transformers remaining sealed and charged with the anhydrous coolant they come with but that is just a guess on my part.

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#7

Re: Generator Step Up Transformer Storage Condition

01/12/2014 4:09 PM

When they say "charged condition" I suspect that they mean air tight with a nitrogen gas blanket over the top oil. Periodically sample the oil and the nitrogen and have the samples analyzed to determine if oxygen is somehow bleeding into the tank.

It's going to cost you a few bottles of nitrogen and a pressure gauge but if the pressure starts falling you should investigate. Kept free of outside air the interior of the tank will not degrade unless there were impurities in the oil prior to mothballing. DGA (Dissolved Gas Analysis) is your friend.

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#8

Re: Generator Step Up Transformer Storage Condition

01/13/2014 12:46 AM

The OEM is right.

We have stored transformers for years in energised condition with regular tests for dielectric strength and water content of the oil. Maintain the breather as usual and check for leaks regularly.

The no load losses are much cheaper than repairs to a deteriorated transformer.

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#9

Re: Generator Step Up Transformer Storage Condition

01/14/2014 12:24 PM

can you not calculate the no load losses, then compare the losses to the cost of replacing/repairing the transformer?

That way you will see which one is the correct course of action to take.

and while you are at it.. don't forget to include how long it will take to replace the transformer IF it fails while switched off. Not every transformer supplier has a spare on the shelf.

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