Implementation of an Integrated, Portable Transformer Condition Monitoring Instrument in the Classroom and On-Site

The development of integrated, portable, transformer condition monitoring (TCM) equipment for classroom demonstrations as well as for student exercises conducted in the field is discussed. Demonstrations include experimentation with real-world transformers to illustrate concepts such as polarization and depolarization current through oil-paper composite insulation. The developed equipment has also been used to understand and illustrate the phenomenon of recovery voltage. Finally, the portability and robustness of the equipment enables students to collect data from transformers installed on-site for the purpose of validating the nature of curves obtained in real-world environments.