Expansion and modernization of transformers – what does it involve?
Transformers are key components of power systems. They are responsible for transforming electric voltage and current. To meet the requirements of modern transmission networks, frequent expansion and modernization of transformers is necessary. What does this process look like?
Need to expand equipment
Changes in habits and people’s pursuit of a higher standard of living result in a constant increase in electricity consumption. Therefore, transformers operating in transmission networks must be constantly adapted to new requirements of consumers. The expansion of the transformer station aims to increase the capacity and efficiency of transformers so that they can meet the growing energy demand.
Modernization of transformers
Modernization of the transformer station and carrying out ongoing repairs allow us to maintain uninterrupted supplies of electricity to private customers and companies. As part of these activities, you can change or optimize the choice of investment location or implement modern technological functions.
The modernization also involves replacing worn-out equipment, which improves the efficiency of transformer stations. Additionally, modernization of the transformer station may contribute to increasing energy efficiency, which has a positive impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the costs associated with maintaining the power infrastructure.
Improving system performance
Modernization works on the facilities concern not only the transformers themselves but also the accompanying infrastructure, such as expansion of the control room buildings and auxiliary rooms, renovation of lattice towers and others poles. Renovations of the overhead parallel capacitor banks should also be taken into account, as well as inspections of power supply devices, setting devices and applied protection devices. Moreover, modernization of transformers allows the introduction of modern technologies, cooling systems, control systems and insulation. In this way, the efficiency and reliability of the system are improved, and the level of user safety is increased.
Insulation and cooling systems
Modern transformers use advanced insulating materials, such as dielectric transformer oil (check the offer of our Oil Laboratory) with increased strength and durability. Insulation allows you to increase the operating voltage of the transformer, which is important in the case of higher voltage networks. To maintain appropriate temperatures of transformers, advanced cooling systems are also used, including air cooling and oil cooling. This increases the efficiency of the devices and enables operation at higher loads.
Modernizacja transformatorów
Monitoring and control systems
Transformer expansion may also be associated with the introduction of advanced equipment monitoring systems, automation and remote control. Sensors measure transformer parameters such as temperature, humidity and insulation wear. In this way, it becomes possible to continuously assess the condition of the device, regardless of its location. Based on the collected data, transmission network operators can make accurate decisions regarding the need to repair or maintain transformers. In addition, control systems allow you to optimize the device’s operation, adapt to dynamically changing network conditions and increase the speed of response to unexpected failures.
Benefits of expansion and modernization
The expansion and modernization of transformers brings a number of benefits. It allows for increasing energy throughput, which is necessary to meet the growing energy demands of consumers. This also reduces operating costs. Modernization of transformers improves their reliability, which contributes to maintaining the stability of power grids. Remote control and monitoring systems allow you to conveniently manage devices operating in the network, and the entire system can operate more efficiently and safely.
The modernization of transformers is necessary in the context of increased demand for energy and changes in the structure of power networks. These types of investments have a positive impact on the efficiency and reliable operation of systems, which results in technological and economic benefits in the form of reduced transformer maintenance costs.
More about transformers operation in our offer: Operation and renovation of transformers