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What are the dangers of the transformer oil level being too high or too low?

2024-07-23

What are the dangers of the transformer oil level being too high or too low?

What are the hazards of transformer oil levels being too high or too low?

1. Hazards of high oil levels

  1. Oil leakage and waste: When the oil level is too high, the oil volume will expand when the transformer load increases or the oil temperature rises, which can easily cause oil to overflow from the tank, leading to waste of oil and potentially causing environmental pollution.
  2. Decreased insulation performance: A high oil level can cause the oil to spill out of the tank, forming an oil mist, which can reduce the insulation performance of the transformer and increase the risk of electrical faults.
  3. Worsened heat dissipation: The heat dissipation effect of the oil is crucial for the normal operation of the transformer. When the oil level is too high, the excessive volume of oil may hinder natural convection and circulation, affecting heat dissipation, leading to increased transformer temperature, which in turn affects its lifespan and performance.
  4. Increased internal pressure on equipment: A high oil level may also exert pressure on internal equipment of the transformer, leading to internal failures such as short circuits or explosions.
  5. Safety hazards: Transformer oil is a flammable and explosive substance; a high oil level increases the risk of fire or explosion accidents.

2. Hazards of low oil levels

  1. Reduced insulation strength: When the oil level is too low, transformer leads or coils may be exposed to air, leading to reduced insulation strength and increased risk of internal flashover or discharge.
  2. Increased contact area between oil and air: A low oil level increases the contact area between oil and air, further reducing the insulation strength of the oil and potentially accelerating its oxidation and aging.
  3. False operation of gas protection: When the oil level is too low, it may trigger the gas protection device of the transformer, causing false operations that affect normal operation.
  4. Insulation breakdown: In cases of severe oil deficiency, the transformer core and windings may be completely exposed to air, easily absorbing moisture and reducing insulation capability, which may even lead to insulation breakdown and damage to the transformer.
  5. Impact on system stability: A low oil level may also affect the stability of the power system because normal operation of the transformer is crucial for maintaining balance in system voltage and current.

In summary, both high and low transformer oil levels can have serious impacts on its normal operation and safety. Therefore, during routine maintenance of transformers, it is important to regularly check the oil level and keep it within a normal range (usually between 1/3 to 1/4 on the gauge) to ensure safe and stable operation.

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