New applications of transformer utilization and analysis

Smartgrid connected devices have increased the ability of the utility to collect data on the distribution network. Combined with the proliferation of web services to provide supporting data such as granular weather data, these data streams offer a valuable resource to more accurately profile and monitor transformer utilization. This profiling offers the ability to back check traditional rules of thumb on engineering design calculations, and monitor for anomalies on the distribution network. Advancement in computational devices allow for this analysis to be performed often and rapidly. Quantitative statistical measures can now be more broadly distributed across better sampling sets. Better access to manufacturer data on transformer specs along with granular temperature monitoring insert the probability of predicting failure in advance thus allowing the utility to optimize resource planning and minimize disruption to the customer. This presentation will discuss the ability to monitor, profile, rate and predict failure of distribution transformers using the new smartgrid data sources.