TRANSFORMER TESTING & MAINTENANCE

Testing of transformer is done to determine their electrical, thermal and mechanical suitability
for the system where they will be applied or used. Most of the tests performed on power
transformers are defined in national standards created by IEC, ISO, DIN, ASTM, IEEE, NEMA
and ANSI, whose purpose is to define a uniform set of tests recognized by both the manufacturer
and the user.

Transformer Test Details:

Field Testing. Field testing can be divided into three categories

1. Acceptance tests
2. Periodic tests
3. Tests after failure

Acceptance tests should be performed immediately after the product arrives at the destination. A
few tests can be carried out which are stated below:

 Turns ratio
 Insulation resistance(Winding and core)
 Power factor
 Resistance (winding)
 Polarity and phase relation
 Mechanical tests (SFRA)
 Oil tests (DGA, moisture, dielectrics, etc.)
 Visual inspection

Periodic tests are done after the product is installed in its permanent location and must be
repeated yearly. The main purpose of this test is to monitor the condition of the unit so that any
potential trouble may be spotted early before a failure occurs. Some of these are listed below:

 Turns ratio
 Insulation resistance
 Power factor
 Resistance (winding)
 Oil tests (DGA, Furan Analysis, moisture, dielectrics, Acidity, Density, Viscosity, Flash
Point, Appearance, etc.)
 Excitation current test
 Visual inspection

An unscheduled outage and the potential of outright failure can be prevented by following a
periodic test schedule.
Failure tests conducted on electric transformers are:

 Turns ratio
 Insulation resistance
 Power factor
 Resistance
 Complete Electrical testing
 Complete Oil testing
 SFRA
 Excitation current test
 Combustible gas/ gas-in-oil analysis
 Visual inspection (internal)

When a transformer fails, the time of failure tests will decide whether the unit can be repaired at
the site or whether it needs to be returned to the manufacturer, or a specialized center for repair.
By comparing the results of the tests with the established norms, a 'history' of the transformer can
be compiled, and the reasons for failure can be diagnosed.