SEDL / STP / STP998-EB / STP26427S

Static Electrification in Power Transformers

Crofts, DW
Manager of Transmission and Distribution Operations, TU Electric, Dallas, TX

Pages: 16    Published: Jan 1988

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Abstract

The subject of static electrification and related transformer failures has gained the attention of the industry in the last decade. To some extent electrification activity occurs with flowing insulating oil passing over insulation items within every transformer. The extent of the electrification determines whether or not this activity is detrimental to the dielectric integrity of the transformer.

Within the paper, failures are described—two of which occurred on the TU Electric system. Several others have occurred in the United States and even more worldwide. Many of the actual failures have not been well documented and statistical information is lacking in the literature.

Electrification activity is enhanced by many variables which are described in the text. Methods of minimizing detrimental activity are discussed and the need for monitoring techniques is stressed.