Composing with components

Transformers are critical parts of the electric power grid, and transformer components such as bushings and tap changers are crucial for ensuring the reliability and safety of transformers in service. Some functional moving and electrically stressed transformer parts are also subjected to outdoor conditions - for example, the air side of a bushing, which insulates the high voltage line from the transformer tank ground potential under rainy and polluted conditions.

Today's strong market requirement for reliable and safe electrical equipment has led to the emergence of breakthrough technologies for transformer components. For example, vacuum interrupter technology now represents a major trend for tap changers, because it substantially reduces the maintenance cycle by preventing contamination of the insulating oil, and slowing down its aging process.

Another major current trend in the transformer industry is dry bushing insulating technologies, combined with silicon outer insulators to provide the safest service conditions. Many other transformer components also contribute to reliable and safe service conditions of the equipment, including air breathers, which require supervision and maintenance to securely reduce moisture ingress in the transformer and tap changer oil.

Transformer customers today are not only demanding safe, reliable electrical equipment, but also cost-effective, overall solutions. Taking all of these factors into account is extremely important when considering an essential component of transformer design, such as the connection from the windings to the bushings, which very often dictates the overall size of the transformer (and thus its overall cost), as well as assembly time.

ABB, as a leading transformer component manufacturer is continually addressing major technology trends and market challenges in the transformer industry with innovative products that meet or surpass the demanding requirements of today's transformer customers [RIGHTWARDS ARROW] 1.

New vacuum on-load tap changer portfolio

A tap changer can be considered a transformer's gear box. It connects or disconnects turns in the tap winding to maintain a constant voltage out of the transformer. Both mechanical and electrical challenges must be addressed when designing a tap changer, and demand for reduced maintenance has resulted in increased use of vacuum interrupter technology. Electrical arcing that previously took place in oil is now taking place in a vacuum interrupter, which prevents arcing from contaminating the insulating oil. Typical inspection intervals for vacuum interrupter...