The importance of advanced diagnostic methods for higher availability of power transformers and ancillary components in the era of smart grid

In recent years maintenance practices and philosophies have been subjected to economic pressures. These pressures have forced a movement from time-based to condition-based maintenance activities. This change has also transformed diagnostic applications and their perceived value. Often, condition-based programs require an in-service indicator to warrant further action. Before a power transformer is placed in a condition-based program, it is important to understand the need for a comprehensive condition assessment. The assessment will be used as a baseline for future decisions, and should include the most effective diagnostic techniques. Based on research, practical experiences, and advancement in measurement instruments, it is now possible to extract in-depth information that was not available in the past. These advanced diagnostic methods provide new and critical information about the transformer condition. This paper presents the importance of how modern diagnostic techniques can be applied as an extension of the standard condition assessment protocol to provide a solid foundation for a condition-based program in the era of smart grid.