Utilities can rely on instrument transformers for accurate and dependable power output

In an interview with EPR Magazine, Servokon’s Sales & Marketing Director, Zakir Hussain, discusses the advantages of instrument transformers for utilities.

How do instrument transformers help utilities monitor the reliability of transmission line operations?

Instrument transformers are critical components of power systems that help utilities monitor the reliability of transmission line operations. They are commonly used in both transmission and distribution systems. Instrument transformers include current transformers (CTs) and voltage transformers (VTs). By providing accurate and reliable information about the voltage and current levels on the system, utilities can take proactive measures to prevent damage to the system, ensure the quality of power supplied to customers, and maintain the power grid’s reliability. CTs and VTs help utilities detect faults in transmission lines and feeders. Utilities can monitor the system for abnormal conditions by measuring the current and voltage levels, such as overloading or short circuits. This information helps utilities take appropriate action to prevent damage to the system. They also provide utilities with accurate information about the load on the system. This information helps utilities manage the load on the system and balance the power flow between different transmission lines and feeders.

What are the advantages of instrument transformers for power substations and power systems?

They help improve system reliability, reduce costs, and enhance safety for personnel and equipment. Instrument transformers help protect personnel from high-voltage electrical hazards by providing a low-voltage signal for measuring and monitoring purposes. They provide highly accurate measurements of voltage and current levels in power systems, which are necessary for effective system operation, control, and protection. This information is critical for identifying and locating faults, calculating system losses, and improving system efficiency. Also, instrument transformers can be integrated with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, allowing utilities to monitor and control their power systems remotely. This helps improve system operation and control and reduces the need for manual intervention.

What measures are taken to ensure effective metering, efficient fault protection, and exactness in transformers?

Utilities implement measures such as using high-quality equipment, conducting regular testing and maintenance, monitoring systems, and providing employee training and education programs to ensure effective metering, efficient fault protection, and accuracy in transformers. Faults in transformers can significantly damage the power system, resulting in power outages. Therefore, protective relays are installed by utilities to detect and isolate faults promptly. These relays undergo regular testing and maintenance to ensure their proper functioning. Transformers must be precise to provide accurate voltage and current levels to the power system. As such, transformers undergo testing during manufacturing and after installation. Additionally, utilities perform routine maintenance checks on transformers to ensure they operate correctly.

In which areas are these instrument transformers used?

Instrument transformers are used in various areas, from power generation to distribution, to ensure efficient and reliable power system operation. Power substations extensively use instrument transformers to measure and monitor voltage and current levels. They are also used on transmission lines to monitor voltage and current levels and protect the line from faults. Distribution systems are also used to monitor voltage and current levels and protect the system from faults. Also, instrument transformers are used in power generation facilities to monitor the performance of the generators and protect them from overvoltage and overcurrent conditions.