By Brandon Dupuis

The transformer test that customers most struggle with is the transformer Power Factor test.

Performing offline electrical tests on transformers can be time-consuming, especially when the field measurements are not captured correctly the first time. This article identifies the electrical transformer tests that test equipment users often struggle to perform efficiently and correctly. Three field-testing tips will be provided, to address the transformer tests that are often "time-suckers". By building awareness, test equipment users can better avoid the situations where a significant amount of time is lost due to retesting, troubleshooting, and collaborating with test equipment manufacturers.

Review the "Power Factor Checklist" Prior to Testing

Without a doubt, the transformer test that customers most struggle with is the transformer Power Factor test (which includes the Overall Test, the Bushing C1 Test, and the Bushing C2 Test). Unfortunately, the Power Factor test is highly sensitive to the test environment, to the test lead connections, and to the test specimen's earth-ground connection, among other things. Since the Power Factor measurement is highly sensitive, obtaining the correct (i.e. valid) Power Factor measurements in the field is challenging.

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This article was originally published in the October 2019 issue of the Best Practices: Transformer Testing, Maintenance and Monitoring magazine.

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