Keeping the Power On: The Importance of Regular DGA Testing

Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) Testing is a diagnostic method used to assess the health of oil-filled electrical equipment, such as transformers. The process involves analyzing the gases dissolved in the insulating oil of the equipment.

DGA testing serves as a routine health check-up for transformers, where technicians collect oil samples in much the same way doctors draw blood to assess our well-being. Whether it's understanding normal function or diagnosing potential issues early on—the presence and levels of these gases can be telling signs that help maintain transformer integrity over time. By understanding the concentrations and combinations of these gases, experts can diagnose issues - from minor wear-and-tear to severe electrical faults - by accurately identifying the levels and mixtures present.

The significance of DGA testing is paramount and simply cannot be exaggerated. Envision transformers as the essential pillars upholding our electrical distribution networks - their failure not only risks widespread power outages but also invokes steep repair costs. By implementing routine DGA tests, we're equipped to identify potential issues sooner rather than later, facilitating a proactive approach in maintenance that significantly prolongs transformer longevity and ensures stability within our power infrastructure. Moreover, it significantly improves safety and reliability, ensuring that the electrical grid remains stable and efficient.

DGA is critical for detecting faults which might otherwise compromise crucial transformers' performance. Industry experts remain deeply engaged through this technique to maintain these indispensable machines in top condition for as long as possible.

DGA solutions can be categorized into two solutions, the online and the offline(portable) solutions.

• Online DGA Solutions provide continuous monitoring of the dissolved gases in transformer oil, allowing for real-time diagnostics. These systems are permanently installed on transformers and other critical assets, offering the following key benefits:

? Provides remote alert and multi-gas diagnostic of deteriorating transformer condition

? Expedites operational decisions without needing to go to site for manual oil sampling

? Issues can be detected in their infancy, avoiding unexpected failures and facilitating planned outages

? Anchors condition based maintenance and asset replacement strategies on hard data

? No need for consumables or frequent recalibration to operate at optimum performance

? New “Rapid Mode” provides near real-time insight on fast developing faults

? Enhanced computing power and scalable I/Os for a flexible transformer monitoring solution

? Compatible with mineral insulating oils and newer ester based fluids (natural and synthetic)

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• Offline or Portable DGA Solutions are used for periodic testing and analysis. These portable devices are brought to the site and used to collect oil samples from transformers, which are then analyzed either on-site or in a laboratory. Key benefits include:

? Measurement of seven diagnostic gases and moisture content in the oil

? Fast diagnostics in less than 30 minutes

? Intuitive touchscreen interface with step-by-step instructions and Plug and Play connectivity

? Compatible with mineral insulating oils and newer ester-based fluids (natural and synthetic)

? Enables operators to effectively respond to alarms, trip events and supports on-site field

decision making

Both types of DGA solutions are essential tools in the predictive maintenance toolkit, helping to extend the life of transformers, improve reliability, and reduce the risk of unplanned outages. Whether online or offline, the right DGA solution can significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of electrical operations. To learn more about these DGA solutions, please reach out to us via:

Call/WhatsApp: +254 709 22 33 44

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.amotechafrica.com

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GE Grid Solutions