Early detection and continuous monitoring of dissolved key fault gases in transformers and shunt reactors

Insulation breakdown in oil-filled equipment will produce gases. These gases will dissolve in the oil. The early detection and continuous monitoring of the key fault gases dissolved in oil provide a reliable warning of incipient and developing failure conditions. This paper reviews the basics and dynamics of failure evolution, the impact on the insulation system, the characterization of the defects using dissolved gas analysis, the use of a fuel cell based technology to detect and monitor fault gases in oil, as well as the economics of equipment condition monitoring. Reference is made to current industry practices and documented results