Condition assessment of power transformer insulation using short-duration time-domain dielectric spectroscopy measurement data

Abstract

Utilities prefer noninvasive methods for assessing the condition of power transformer insulation. Analysis of polarization-depolarization current (PDC) is one such popular method. One such analysis involves the estimation of trapped charge released from the interfacial region of oil-paper insulation. The literature shows that such charges can be reliably used for the diagnosis of transformer insulation. However, such analysis requires a complete profile of PDC. PDC measurement (an offline technique) takes a large amount of time (several hours) to complete. The magnitude of PDC data for a larger value of time is also sensitive to changes in environmental conditions and field noise as its magnitude is low. Hence, a reliable estimation of detrapped charge may require numerous PDC measurements. This situation is not convenient for utilities as it prolongs shut down time. In this article, a method has been proposed which is capable of estimating detrapping charge using PDC data measured for a short span of time. The proposed method is tested on data collected from several real-life in-service transformers.