• Insulation Oil Purifier
  • Wide Scale of Purification Solutions
Home > News > industry-news>

How often does a plant need to filter transformer oil?

Time:2024-12-23 11:17:49  Reading volume:

The frequency at which transformer oil needs to be filtered largely depends on several factors, such as the type of transformer, the operating conditions, and the oil quality. However, regular maintenance is essential to ensure the proper functioning and longevity of the transformer. Here’s an overview of when and why transformer oil may need to be filtered:


rhyy.jpg

 

 Factors Influencing the Frequency of Transformer Oil Filtration:

1. Age and Condition of Transformer:

   - New Transformers: In the first few years, the transformer oil generally remains in good condition and requires minimal filtration unless there’s a problem.

   - Older Transformers: As transformers age, the oil may degrade and collect contaminants, necessitating more frequent filtration.

 

2. Oil Contaminants:

   - Moisture: One of the most common contaminants in transformer oil is moisture. If the oil absorbs moisture, it can compromise the insulation properties, which could lead to transformer failure. The oil may need to be filtered and dehydrated if moisture levels exceed acceptable limits (typically above 10-15 ppm).

   - Particles: Dirt, dust, and other particulates can accumulate in the oil, potentially causing wear on internal components. This may require more frequent filtration to maintain oil quality.

   - Acids and Gases: Oil breakdown due to heat or electrical activity can produce acids and gases (like carbon monoxide, methane, and hydrogen), which can degrade the oil and affect performance.

 

3. Operating Conditions:

   - Heavy Load or Poor Environmental Conditions: Transformers operating under heavy load or in extreme environmental conditions (such as high temperatures or pollution-prone areas) may require more frequent oil filtration to remove contaminants like carbon, moisture, or oxidation products.

   - Voltage Surges and Short Circuits: If a transformer experiences frequent voltage surges or short circuits, the oil might break down faster, leading to the formation of harmful gases and acids.

 

4. Transformer Size and Design:

   - Large Transformers (Power Transformers): Larger transformers, particularly in industrial or power generation settings, may require oil filtration more frequently due to the large amounts of oil they contain and their more complex insulation systems.

   - Distribution Transformers: Smaller transformers generally have less frequent oil maintenance but still require periodic checks.

 

 General Recommendations for Transformer Oil Filtration:

1. Routine Maintenance:

   - Every 3-5 years: In many cases, a general filtration or oil treatment (degassing and dehydration) is recommended every 3 to 5 years to maintain oil quality and remove accumulated moisture or contaminants. This can be done as part of a regular transformer maintenance schedule.

   

2. Moisture and Contaminant Monitoring:

   - Periodic Testing: It’s recommended to test transformer oil for moisture, acidity, dielectric strength, and contaminants at least once a year. If any of these parameters fall out of acceptable limits, filtration or oil replacement may be needed sooner.

   

3. When Oil Quality Deteriorates:

   - Immediate Filtration: If there is a sudden increase in moisture, acidity, or gas content, oil filtration should be done immediately. Oil filtration systems or machines can remove these contaminants to restore oil quality and protect the transformer.

 

4. Oil Life Cycle:

   - Reclamation or Replacement: After years of use, oil may reach a point where filtration alone cannot restore its properties. In such cases, the oil may need to be replaced or undergo a full reclamation process to remove severe degradation, particularly when the oil is heavily contaminated with sludge or acids.

 

 Methods of Transformer Oil Filtration:

- Offline Filtration: Involves filtering the oil while the transformer is offline, where the oil is pumped out, passed through filters, and then returned to the transformer. This method can help in removing particulates and moisture.

- Online Filtration: Involves filtering the oil while the transformer is in service. This method uses a continuous filtration system that can remove impurities without taking the transformer offline.

 

 Conclusion:

- Regular monitoring and testing are key to determining the need for oil filtration.

- Routine filtration every 3-5 years is common for most transformers, but high-demand transformers or those in harsh environments may require more frequent maintenance.

- Immediate filtration is required when contaminants such as moisture, acids, or gases exceed acceptable levels.

 

Would you like more detailed information on any specific filtration methods or transformer oil testing procedures?


oil filtration filter transformer oil