Transformer Thermal Upgrades
Industrial Tests can provide thermal studies and upgrades on most transformers. A variety of studies can be provided to determine feasibility of the following:
- Increase capacity by adding cooling
- Overload capability by adding cooling
- Loss of life due to overload
- Capacity change due to use of natural ester fluids such as Envirotemp® FR3® dielectric fluid
These studies normally address items that limit performance of the transformer components such as bushings, DETC, LTC, conductor/cable size, cooling, etc. They also help determine the effects of adding radiators, larger radiators, pumps, cooling fans and/or higher speed fans as well as establishing a maximum rating taking into account the added cooling and limiting factors (such as temperature rise), leading to options that could upgrade any limiting factors. Industrial Tests can provide a complete furnish, install and test package which includes installation instructions/drawings, bill of materials and parts.
Current Transformers Additions
Current transformers can be installed internally if there is available space or externally using slip-over CTs; a feasibility study is required to determine if CTs can be installed. Transformers from manufacturers require drawing submittal from the customer and/or a site visit. The site visit may require an internal inspection of the transformer to determine available space, dimensions and material requirements. Industrial Tests can provide a complete furnish, install and test package which may include installation/wiring drawings, CTs, mounting kits, conduit, wiring, terminal blocks and other miscellaneous items.
Control Upgrades
Industrial Tests combines experienced engineering, quality suppliers and highly skilled field technicians/engineers to provide many types of control upgrades. A control upgrade could be a single component, a completely new control box or anything in between including a complete furnish, install and test package. Upgradeable control components include LTC controls, fan/cooling controls, auxiliary and seal-in relays, gauges and protective devices.
Condition Monitoring Equipment/Systems Installation
Industrial Tests works with the monitoring equipment supplier to provide a package that meets your needs. Recently, we successfully completed projects using Dynamic Ratings and Qualitrol monitoring equipment. Other devices such as water and gas monitors, LTC position indicators, gauges and RTD can be included in the package. The customer needs to provide control drawings/schematics to incorporate the monitoring equipment into the existing equipment.
In addition to upgrades, Industrial Tests possesses the equipment, experience and capabilities to complete other service work you may elect to perform while your transformer is being upgraded such as condition assessments, insulation dryouts, bushing replacements, LTC repairs/upgrades, FR3 retrofill, etc.; combining services can minimize costs and transformer downtime.
