Transformer

Defects Probable causes for the defect Design for Maintainability (DfM) Guidelines
Vibration and noise
  • Overloading – fluctuation density of core.
  • Loose connection of bolt on clamping structure. Use of wrong sized crimp or improper tool.
  • No precaution of sound isolating pad / vibration damper for mounting.
Design

  • Comply with the requirements of electrical installations as per BS 7671:2008+A3:2015, SS CP 5:1998, NFPA 70 [5]; including the location and number of power points.
  • Ensure switchboards have adequate space and access for operation and maintenance.
  • Specify suitable switch closets with regard to moisture exposure conditions.
  • Refer to the definition of types and functionality of RCCBs and specifications for RCBOs as per SS 480:2016 (IEC 61009-1:2010+AMD1:2012+AMD2:2013 CSV BS EN 61009-2-1:1995).
  • Provide sub-metering system with remote measurement capability and link to BMS/EMS to track energy consumption data trends [6].

Construction

  • Conform to the guidelines for construction and compliance inspection of electrical connections and earthing thereof (BS 1363-4:2016, SS 403:2013).
  • Refer to BS 8512:2008 for storage, handling and installation of power cables on wooden drums.
  • Install sub-metering system with remote measurement capability and link to BMS/EMS to track energy consumption data trends [6].
  • All accessible metal parts of connection units should be in electrical contact with the earthing terminal(s) (BS 1363-4:2016, SS 403:2013).

Maintenance

  • Conform to the maintenance of electrical installations as per BS 6423:2014, BS 6626:2010, SS 538: 2008, [3;7].
  • Check for insulation damages (e.g. cracks, blisters, warping) caused by overheating, physical impact or by spillage of cleaning chemicals.
  • Check for potential short circuits or ground faults. Ensure that switchboards are not exposed to direct sunlight or alternative heat sources.
  • Conduct annual shutdown to eradicate hot spots along the distribution network as witnessed by the owner and certified by a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW).
  • Provide necessary warning notices/labels at switchboards (e.g. shock hazard warnings).
Overheated or burnt parts body, feeder etc.

  Hot connector (thermal image

  • Insufficient air ventilation in the room or heat dissipation.
  • Loose or wrong sized parts increase resistance.
  • Over greasing, lack of training & proper tool causes loose connections
  • Eddy current, excessive overloading.
  • No thorough investigation to detect the problem in inner parts.
  • Dirt, grime from insulation and windings prevents heat dissipation.
Oil leakage
  • Foreign make – not suitable for higher ambient temperature of tropics.
  • Careless lubrication.
  • Excessive corrosion overlooked for a very long time.
Damaged insulation
  • Damage during transportation is not checked before installation.
  • Poor cleaning – often hindered by poor access.
  • High acidity of cooling liquid. Should be checked and changed.
  • Breakdown of insulation from overheating.
Unsuitable / unsafe working condition

Room used as storage for combustible materials and other equipments

 

 

Worn protective mat

  • nsufficient space design or transformer room used as storage.
  • Protection mat deteriorated with time or spillage of chemical.
  • Inadequate lighting and ventilation.
  • Slippery, dirty floor surface from oil spillage, scattered parts.
  • Omission or missing warning sign or locks.
  • Door mechanism of transformer room is not set to de-energize transformers upon opening the door.

References
[1]  

Normative References/Standards Referred to for Air Handling Unit and Fan Coil Unit