Transformer Research Consortium

Completed

Other Power and Storage Technologies(Electricity transmission and distribution)

Applied Research and Development

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
National Grid Electricity Transmission

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 April 2013

01 October 2017

54 months

£1,050,000

Power

London

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, National Grid Electricity Transmission

Project Contact, UK Power Networks
Project Contact, SP Energy Networks

The research objectives are on the following topics: Ageing assessment (methods and experience)Partial discharge diagnostics (laboratory studies of discharge, detection and effects)Dissolved gas analysis, practical work on DGA understanding Thermal analysis, providing practical tools for assessing thermal capability and design of transformers This project will be successful if we gain a greater understanding of the research areas, and are able to use that knowledge to influence the management of transformers on the UK system.

National Grid has an ageing fleet of Power Transformers on the Electricity Transmission system. In order to provide a transmission system that is fit-for-purpose and provides a secure supply at a low cost, it is critical that National Grid replaces these transformers at the correct time. There are a large number of variables that can cause a power transformer to fail - Ageing, Partial Discharge, Abnormal Magnetic fluctuations and Hot Spots to name a few. National Grid needs to better understand the problems faced by day-to-day operation of the transformers in order to inform the asset management business, and ensure the most value is provided for consumers. Research The University of Manchester are going to undertake research on behalf of the consortium in the following areas: Interpretation of ageing markers in transformers and new ageing indicators. This will be based on lab work and data gathered from transformer scrappings. Types of partial discharge, intensity rate of damage and electrical and chemical indications, based on lab work of various oil types. Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) interpretation based on practical work on how faults produce gas, different types of oils and operational data. Transformer Thermal Design aspects, hotspot temperature measurement and thermal limits, based on CFD studies and practical work on lab scale models.Note : Project Documents may be available via the ENA Smarter Networks Portal using the Website link above

17/12/18