Course Details

Objective

By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand

• Understand the key steps involved in the safe installation of power transformers.
• Identify the requirements for transformer site preparation and infrastructure setup.
• Perform pre-commissioning tests to ensure the transformer’s readiness for operation.
• Safely execute the commissioning process, including connecting the transformer to the electrical system.
• Perform electrical tests, including insulation resistance, turns ratio, and impedance tests.
• Troubleshoot common installation and commissioning issues and apply corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations during installation and commissioning.
• Implement best practices for transformer installation, including safety measures, testing, and quality checks.

Content

Day 1: Introduction to Power Transformers and Installation Basics

• Overview of power transformers and their role in electrical systems.
• Understanding transformer ratings, specifications, and types of transformers.
• Key components of power transformers: Core, windings, bushings, tap changer, and cooling system.
• Site preparation for transformer installation: Choosing the right location, foundation requirements, and clearance.
• Transportation and handling of transformers: Safe lifting and positioning techniques.
• Pre-installation checks: Inspection of the transformer before installation (oil levels, insulation, and components).
• Site readiness: Electrical, mechanical, and safety requirements before installation.

Day 2: Transformer Installation Procedures

• Transformer unloading and positioning: Safe handling and rigging techniques.
• Mounting the transformer: Proper alignment and securing of the transformer.
• Electrical connections: Preparing and installing high-voltage and low-voltage connections, bushings, and tap changer connections.
• Cooling system installation: Oil tanks, radiators, fans, and associated piping systems.
• Bushing, tap changer, and accessories installation: Ensuring correct connections and operational functionality.
• Grounding and earthing requirements for transformer installation.
• Ensuring safety during installation: Lockout/tagout (LOTO), protective equipment, and risk assessment.

Day 3: Pre-Commissioning and Testing of Power Transformers

• Introduction to transformer testing: Purpose and types of tests performed during commissioning.
• Insulation Resistance Testing: Testing the insulation resistance of windings and bushings.
• Turns Ratio Testing: Verifying correct transformer winding ratios and ensuring operational accuracy.
• Winding Resistance Testing: Measuring resistance to assess winding integrity and condition.
• Dielectric Strength of Oil Testing: Ensuring the transformer oil has the proper dielectric strength.
• Excitation Test: Measuring the transformer's magnetizing current.
• Buchholz Relay Test: Testing the Buchholz relay (gas protection) for transformer safety.
• Evaluating test results: Interpreting test data and identifying potential issues.

Day 4: Commissioning of Power Transformers

• Final preparations before energizing the transformer: Visual checks and operational verification.
• Energizing procedure: Ensuring safe energization of transformers and monitoring initial operations.
• Voltage testing: Verifying voltage levels, polarity, and phase sequence.
• Initial load testing: Monitoring performance under load and checking for overheating or fault conditions.
• Transformer protection systems: Setting up overcurrent protection, differential protection, and thermal protection.
• Monitoring and observing transformer behavior during commissioning: Assessing noise, vibration, and temperature.
• Post-commissioning documentation: Preparing reports and updating records.

Day 5: Troubleshooting, Safety, and Best Practices

• Common transformer installation issues: Misconnections, oil leakage, overheating, and grounding problems.
• Troubleshooting during commissioning: Identifying faults, handling alarms, and correcting operational anomalies.
• Safety protocols during commissioning: Ensuring the protection of personnel and equipment.
• Maintaining compliance with standards: IEC, ANSI, IEEE, and local electrical codes for installation and commissioning.
• Best practices for transformer maintenance after commissioning: Regular monitoring, preventive maintenance, and oil management.

NOTE:

Pre-& Post Tests will be conducted.

Case Studies, Group Exercises, Group Discussions, Last Day reviews, and assessments will be carried out.

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Methodology

A highly interactive combination of lectures and discussion sessions will be managed to maximize the amount and quality of information and knowledge transfer. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. You will also be encouraged to raise your own questions and to share in the development of the right answers using your own analysis and experiences.  Tests of multiple-choice type will be made available on daily basis to examine the effectiveness of delivering the course.

Very useful Course Materials will be given.

• 30% Lectures
• 30% Workshops and work presentation
• 20% Group Work& Practical Exercises
• 20% Videos& General Discussions