Transformer Life Management

(a) Maximising the diagnostic value of DGA through new gases

(b) Novel Sensor for Transformer Diagnostics

(c) The Copper Book (EPRI Power Transformer Guidebook)

(d) Transformer Remaining Life Research – New Markers

(e) Dissolved Gas Analysis Guide

(f) Transformer Forensics Database

Protection and Control

(a) Using Protective Relays for Condition Assessment: Catalogue the Enabling Technologies.

(b) Industry-wide Relay Performance Database: Data Format and Relay Performance Analysis.

(c) Standard-based Configuration Management for Protection & Control Systems.

SF6 Management and Gas Insulated Substations

Research on Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) for breakers and Gas Insulated Substations / Gas Insulated Lines is focused on improving handling, enhanced diagnostics and reducing leaks. This project looks at the following areas:

1) Leak reduction technologies (both for sealing and for high sensitivity leak detection) are thus important to understand and effectively apply.

2) Research on diagnostics focuses on both gas analysis techniques and on partial discharge techniques (especially for GIS/GIL). Improved diagnostics remain vital since failure prevention of this highly critical equipment can significantly improve the reliability of electricity supply.

3) Research on handling issues such as live filling play an important role in increased worker safety.

Benefits

• Report reviewing how diagnostic value of DGA through new gases may be maximised.

• Latest technology developments updated in the 2014 version of the Copper Book, a power transformer guidebook.

• Report reviewing new markers for the determination of transformer remaining life.

• Guidance on how to best to use dissolved gas analysis in transformers.

• Report detailing the output from the development and testing of novel sensors for transformer diagnostics.

• Software database with all transformer forensic studies done to-date and new data fields.

Specific outputs for 2014, Protection and Control include:

• Industry wide Performance Database for Protective Relays.

• Application Guidelines of Configuration Management for Protection and Control Systems.

• Technologies and Application Guidelines for Condition Based Protection System Maintenance.

Specific outputs for 2014, SF6 Management and Gas Insulated Substations include:

• Technical report detailing output of trials of SF6 Capture Technologies at Littlebrook substations.

• Technical report describing Alternatives to SF6 Technology in Power Delivery: Status of Research

• Gas Insulated Substations and Lines Guidebook detailing the whole life-cycle of SF6, GIS and GIL and specifically determining the following areas:
  • Top 4 Degradation Mechanisms and Potential Failure Modes

  • Aging, Corrosion, or Improperly Maintained Components of Switching Device Mechanism

  • Deterioration (Corrosion) of Flanges and O-rings

  • Tracking on the Surface of Spacers

  • Excessive Thermal Overload Operation of GIS Equipment