Nine Things to Consider when Installing a Transformer
Transporters are important as they supply the right amount of voltage from one source to another, and transporters are equally important to install the transformer in the appropriate environment. If there is any mistake in its installation, there can be many difficulties and safety hazards that can be faced. Incorrect installation could result in fire or electric shock. Therefore, it is very important to consider these nine factors down below before setting up and connecting a transformer in your premises.
1. The Location
One of the main considerations to be made when installing liquid-filled transformers should be considering their location. These transformers must be located in an area that matches up to the relevant fire hazard specifications. Moreover, they should be positioned in a way that there is no possibility of damage in case of a leakage.
2. The Ventilation of the room
When installing dry-type transformers, ventilation must be prioritized. There should be access to clean dry air and enough space should be given so the heat can dissipate easily.
3. The Grounding
The tank should be grounded permanently with a accurate-sized and properly installed permanent ground after the transformer is placed. This is to be done even before any further inspection is carried out and the unit is assembled.
4. Ground Wiring
All the ground wires should be covered with plastic or wood molding at a point 8 feet above the base of the pole. These wires that are installed correctly in order to protect the pole line from being damaged by the strain of line conductors, pole-mounted equipment and severe weather conditions.
5. Pressure Maintenance
A positive pressure is needed at all times, even at low ambient temperature. In order to enable this, sufficient gas pressure should be maintained. The pressure-vacuum gauge will display the pressure variations with ambient temperature, which must be recorded on a regular basis.
6. Mounting
Multiple transformers can be mounted on a single pole provided if the weight is evenly distributed throughout and the total weight is within the safe limits of the pole. Sub-100 kVA single phase transformers are mounted above the secondary mains. For transformers that are larger than 100kVA, platform/pad mounting is often recommended for installation.
7. The Humidity
In case of humidity or rain, lots of care is to be taken, mainly for the liquid-filled transformers. If the humidity exceeds over 70%, dry air should be pumped into the gas space continuously for about 20-30 minutes before service personnel can enter the tank.
8. Fluid Check
In case of inspection, if the insulating liquid needs to be drawn down, you would need to make sure all the equipment such as containers, hoses and pumps used are clean and dry. If the equipment has been used for any other liquid before, you should clean all the contaminated items thoroughly before using. You must also have clean and dry storage options for retaining the liquid and also for filtering the liquid before refilling the tank. You should also remember that the liquid level should not go below the top of windings in the process of removing it.
9. Conduct Inspection
If any work has been done inside the tank, all the electrical connections must be checked for tension, all bushings should be checked for tension of gaskets, and all draw lead connections should be checked too. Along with the electrical clearances, a check for the removal of all tools should be made too.
Overall, when it comes to transformer installation, you must remember that whatever amount of care you take. However, if you don’t have a standard transformer, you are not completely protected against hazards, you must be sure to purchase a standard transformer to ensure safe electrical installation and reliable power supply. One such place where you can get the best transformers that are certified and qualified is TitaTech Engineering Sdn Bhd, a leading transformer manufacturer in Malaysia with 15 years of experience.