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Transformer Health & Assessment

Case Study: 60 MVA Transformer Modernization
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Comprehensive Modernization of a 60 MVA 132 kV Power Transformer

Client: Utility / Industrial Operator

Challenge

A 60 MVA, 132 kV transformer with nearly 30 years of operation required more than routine maintenance. Ageing effects, thermal cycling, and lack of monitoring created increasing operational risk. The objective was to extend service life and upgrade the unit to modern reliability standards — without full replacement.

What We Did

Full internal inspection and active part assessment
Magnetic system verification and debris elimination
Insulation refurbishment in critical areas
Tank modernization with sensors and monitoring interfaces
Key component replacement and diagnostics integration

Result

Tests: Passed all post-modernization tests.
Reliability: Restored structural and dielectric integrity.
Service Life: Extended by 10+ years.
Monitoring: Real-time condition monitoring enabled.

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TypeThree-phase three winding transformer
Rated power, MVA60/60/60
Nominal voltage (HV/MV/LV), kV132/33/6.6
Vector groupYNYND0-11
Voltage regulation, range, No. of stepsOLTC on HV side, ±9×1,78%
Rated frequency, Hz50
Cooling systemONAN/ONAF
Case Study: Active Part Reverse Engineering 40 MVA
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Failure Analysis & OLTC Flashover Investigation – 50 MVA, 220/20 kV Transformer

Client: Utility / Industrial Operator

Challenge

A transformer experienced a severe internal fault with pressure build-up, tank deformation, and oil contamination. Initial diagnostics indicated high-energy discharge and abnormal gas generation. The key challenge was to identify the root cause and assess internal damage to support repair or replacement decisions.

What We Did

Full internal inspection and failure investigation
Identified OLTC selector failure with broken components and flashover
Analyzed arcing traces on tap leads and selector contacts
Assessed structural damage including broken supports and insulation
Evaluated oil condition with high carbon contamination and fault gases
Reviewed SFRA, IR, PI test data to assess winding condition

Result

Root Cause: OLTC internal failure and flashover identified.
Damage Assessment: Clear extent of affected components established.
Recommendations: Actionable repair and risk mitigation guidance provided.
Decision Support: Informed choice between refurbishment and replacement.

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TypeThree-phase two winding transformer
Rated power, MVA50/50
Nominal voltage (HV/LV), kV220/20
Vector groupDyn1
Voltage regulation, range, No. of stepsOLtc on HV side, ±20x0,5%
Rated frequency, Hz50
Cooling systemONAN
Case Study: Revision 420 kV Autotransformer
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Mitigating Local Partial Discharges in OLTC Console Area – 420 kV Autotransformer

Client: Transmission Asset Owner

Challenge

During internal inspection of a 420 kV single-phase autotransformer, signs of oil decomposition and localized overheating were detected in the OLTC mechanical console area. Not linked to load currents, the issue indicated a long-term design-related problem. The objective was to identify the root cause and eliminate thermal stress without major structural modifications.

What We Did

Detailed inspection of OLTC internal structure and affected zones
Identified capacitive coupling between grounded and "floating" parts
Determined risk of circulating currents and partial discharges in console
Developed corrective solution based on equipotential bonding principles
Implemented grounding connection between metallic components
Verified compliance with modern insulation coordination practices

Result

Root Cause: Floating conductive structure causing localized electrical stress.
Correction: Partial Discharges eliminated through simple and robust design fix.
DGA: Stabilization of gas results and oil condition confirmed.

View Technical Specifications →
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TypeOne-phase autotransformer
Rated power, MVA167/167/50
Nominal voltage (HV/MV/LV), kV500/220/38.5
Vector groupYNyn0 + d11
Voltage regulation, range, No. of stepsOLTC on MV side, ±6×2,1%
Rated frequency, Hz50
Cooling systemOFAF

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TypeTBD
Rated power, MVATBD
Rated voltage, kVTBD
Vector groupTBD
Voltage regulation, range, No. of stepsTBD
Rated frequency, HzTBD
Cooling systemTBD
Special requirementsTBD

Most Reactance assignments are performed under strict confidentiality. For this reason, client names, OEMs and project locations are not disclosed publicly. The following anonymized references illustrate the type, scale and complexity of our work. More detailed references may be shared under NDA.

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