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INDUSTRY // INSIGHT
Smart Transformers Smart digitized transformers that provide remote control and data analytics of critical parameters for predictive maintenance are now gaining traction in India, on account of their increased deployment from utilities....
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ransmission and distribution (T&D) utilities are interested in monitoring the status and conditions of their transformers fleet in order to prevent failure or malfunction. For this they follow a strategic and systematic approach referred to as Asset management system. Now with increasing digitalisation and Internet of Things (IoT) implementation T&D utilities have evolved from precautionary maintenance to predictive maintenance in their asset management strategies.
in monitoring and maintenance optimization remain top priorities for many utilities.
Utilities are now relying more on smart, digitized transformers that provide remote monitoring and data analytics of critical parameters in real time for predictive maintenance. It helps utilities take corrective action to prevent grid disruptions and blackouts from happening before failure occurs. This increases reliability and makes it possible to use grid assets and power networks more effectively.
Smart transformers are integral elements of the Smart Grid that works separately to constantly adjust the voltage and to keep in touch with the smart grid so as to ensure remote control when needed as well as to provide power supply and transformers information and feedback themselves.
Smart Transformers Though there have been a number of technological improvements to transformers so as to perform the important function of adjusting voltage levels. These include AC & DC technology with ultra-high voltage, biodegradable oil-filled transformers, ultra-low sound transformers and high efficiency distribution transformers. However, as load peaks (both predictable and unexpected) - it leads to generation of high temperatures that cut the life cycle of the transformer. In addition, sometimes unexpected failures may result in accidents on the network leading to financial and other penalties. Thus, improvements
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October - November 2019
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Power Insight
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The utilities therefore want to track and monitor their transformer fleet status and condition so that they can interfere before a fault or malfunction occurs and that has been made possible through adoption of smart and digital technologies. Thus, a transformer that comes with intelligent electronic devices and intelligent diagnostic and monitoring features are broadly termed as Smart Transformer.
These smart transformer solutions are largely composed of 3 components – hardware, software and services – operating together to provide efficiency and reliability for the utilities. Incorporated with devices such as digital sensors, dissolved gas analyzers and digital safety equipment they help in collecting data for local tracking, diagnosis and control. Same data can also be monitored using cloud at station level for control as well as preventive and predictive maintenance. Being designed to provide voltage efficient electricity for the energy requirements of the facility; large commercial installations are increasingly using these transformers to make the use of power efficiently and in a cost-effective manner. Even at the distribution and transmission levels the use of these transformers is gaining ground.
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