Transformer Monitoring and Its Uses

Transformers are one of the most important components of the electric grid system. Transformers connect devices in the distribution network that make electricity usable by various consumers, such as industries and residents. They can also be referred to as the knight in shining armour of electrical devices, as they make power consumable by all types of electronic devices.

Transformers come in different sizes and are made of different types of materials. Despite their composition, their function is the same, i.e., connecting loads. A conventional transformer is used to manage the load it is connected to. It works as a separate entity and reacts natively to problems, regardless of the needs of the hour. With the advent of transformer monitoring technology, even legacy transformers are heading towards better efficiency. In short, they are getting smarter.

A transformer monitoring system has sensors such as voltage sensors, current sensors, temperature sensors, and oil level sensors, all controlled remotely by IoT. These sensors collect real-time data from the transformer and send it across to the central control system. In this way, the performance of the transformer can be analysed without directly having to visit it. Of the many possibilities it could create in the sector, let us see some of their uses.

Transformer Remote Control

Connection to the IoT gives remote access to the transformer’s monitoring system. As the monitors have data on the transformer’s load status, float level, temperature, oil level, and so on, the operators can analyse the complete health of the transformer and deliberate its working.

Increased Efficiency:

The digitalisation of transformers’ performance over a period of time aids studies on building advanced hardware to improve lifespan and stability, which subsequently increases efficiency and saves money and time.

Timely Service:

With real-time data, the health of the transformer is studied then and there, thus making it easier for prompt servicing and preventing unnecessary shutdown.

Improved Safety Standards:

Since the operator could access the data directly from a control room of sorts, there is no need for frequent manual inspection of the transformers, which is a tedious process and sometimes even dangerous at times of calamity. When a transformer stops functioning, there is no need to travel a long way to the location to access the situation.

Reliability:

Data-driven decision-making prevents poor management of power. It leads to much better auditing apparatuses, which in turn leads to a better quality of the system. Improved quality means the stability of the power supply based on the type of user, averting damage to devices due to fluctuations.

Reduction of Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Efficient power transmission translates into reduced transmission losses, which induce lower fuel burning, which subsequently means lower greenhouse gas emissions into the air.

Better Maintenance:

Identification of faulty devices can be easily analysed with updated data, and repair procedures can be initiated at a much faster pace compared to the conventional process. Major bottlenecks can be avoided or, at the very least, damage can be controlled by making efficient use of the transformer.

Technological Advancement:

The digitalisation of transformers’ performance over a period of time aids studies on building advanced hardware to improve the lifespan and stability of the transformers. In addition to transformer metering, data from smart meters for homes and offices can add more juice to the R&D technologies for creating solutions.

Conclusion

Transformers are the backbone of the power distribution utilities. They are on the threshold of delivering the right amount of current to the users. A monitoring device attached to the transformer makes all its physical functioning quantifiable and readable, enabling a whole new world of possibilities in research and development. It is the data that provides the basis for the transformation of any sector. Transformer monitoring wins because they benefit from the valuable data they provide.