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Home / Technical Articles / The art of transformer maintenance, inspection and repair (recommended practices)

Why is maintenance so important?

The primary purpose of transformer maintenance is to ensure the internal and external parts of the transformer and accessories are kept in good condition and “fit for purpose” and able to operate safely at all times. A secondary and equally essential purpose is to maintain a historical record of the condition of the transformer.

Maintenance instructions on what to do if the transformer goes down
Maintenance instructions on what to do if the transformer goes down (photo credit: Wayne Sidderley via Flickr)

Transformer maintenance can be done periodically or as condition-based maintenance. The latter is usually the most economical way of doing maintenance.

Recommended maintenance is then done based on one or more of the following: inspections, analysis of oil samples, electrical measurements, test of equipment, measurement of temperatures by using a heat-sensitive camera, monitoring (off-line and/or on-line).

Table of contents:

  1. Maintenance in energized condition
  2. Maintenance in de-energized condition
  3. Investigation of transformer disturbances:
    1. Fault localisation advice, dry-type transformers
    2. Fault localisation advices oil-immersed transformers
    3. Recording of disturbances
    4. Function of transformer protective equipment
    5. Measurements
  4. Transformer liquid and insulation
  5. Bushings and joints
  6. Off-circuit tap changer
  7. On-load tap-changer
  8. Motor drive unit
  9. Oil filtering unit
  10. Coolers
  11. Liquid conservator with rubber diaphragm
  12. Gaskets
  13. Dry-type transformers
  14. Surface protection

1. Maintenance in energized condition

For personal safety reasons, only a limited amount of maintenance activities should be performed on the transformer when it is in operation.

When necessary safety precautions have been taken the following maintenance can be done in energised condition:

  1. Inspection for leakages, cracks in porcelain bushings, check of auxiliary equipment etc.
  2. Check drying material in the dehydrating breather (conservator type only).
  3. Measurement of temperatures of joints, bushings etc. by using a heat-sensitive camera.
  4. Oil samples (conservator type only).
Transformer breather
Figure 3 – Transformer breather

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2. Maintenance in de-energized condition

Before starting maintenance work, the transformer has to be disconnected from the network and earthed. When the circuit breaker and the isolator have been opened, they shall be locked in an open position to prevent inadvertently closing during maintenance work.

Items to be considered are:

  • Bushing gaskets; if leaks occur, tightening usually will help, if the gasket has lost its elasticity, it must be replaced. The reason for loss of elasticity could be excessive heating or ageing,
  • Cover gaskets, valves and gaskets of the tap changer. If there are leakages, bolt tightening will often help,
  • Welded joints. Leaking joints can be repaired only by welding.
    A skilled welder and welding instruction are required.
  • Cleaning contaminated bushings (cleaning agent e.g. methylated spirit),
  • Cleaning glasses on the gas relay, thermometer and liquid level indicator,
  • Functional inspection and testing of applicable accessories,
  • Move tap changer through all positions a few times, all types of tap changers,
  • Liquid sampling from bottom drain valve for larger units as required,
  • Check drying material in the dehydrating breather. (Conservator type only),
  • Amend surface treatment defects,
  • Oil and insulation maintenance, drying and reclaiming,
  • Tap-changer maintenance,
  • Inspection and maintenance on the active part should not be performed unless there are unambiguous indications of defects.
Oil-filled transformer components
Oil-filled transformer components

In addition, for dry-type transformers:

  • Inspection and e.g. vacuum cleaning as required,
  • Humidity removal,
  • Tightening winding supports.

In heavily contaminated installations more frequent inspections may be needed.

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3. Investigation of transformer disturbances

If, during operation, the protective equipment of the transformer gives an alarm or trips the transformer from the network, one should immediately investigate the reason for it.

Studies may reveal whether it is a question of transformer damage or some other disturbances in the system.


3.1 Fault localisation advice, dry type transformers

For dry-type transformers, see table below in addition:

SymptomsProbable causesSolutions
Low insulation resistancePresence of humidity on surface of windings.Clean with dry air. Ventilate.
Contamination. Ageing.Clean. Contact manufacturer.
The automatic protection device trips as soon as the transformer is energizedWindings. Defective winding.Contact manufacturer.
Tap changer or bolted links. The primary voltage does not coincide with the position or connection.Check that the position or connection comply with the primary voltage.
Fuses blows. Fuses incorrectly calibrated.Change fuses. Consider different rating.
Protection relays. Timing and/or current is incorrectly adjusted.Check timing and current setting.
Unexpected secondary voltagePrimary voltage. Absence of primary voltage.Check installation and contact the electricity utility.
Tap changer or bolted links. incorrectly positioned or connected.Change position or connection.
Winding rupture.Contact manufacturer.
Non-symmetrical voltages on the secondary sideBolted links incorrectly connected in one of the phases.Check the connections. Check installation and Contact the electricity utility.
Fuse has blown in one phase.Change fuse.
Winding rupture.Contact manufacturer.
LV installation. Non-symmetrical load on the secondary side.Check LV installation.
No voltage applied in one of the phases on the primary side.Contact the electricity utility.
Spurious triggering during operationTriggering and alarm incorrectly set. Incorrect thermometer operation.Check settings. Check thermometer.
Defect Pt100 sensors or thermistors.Check sensors or thermistors.
Fuse blown.Change fuse.
Relays Incorrect timing.Check timing.
Triggering of the overcurrent relay or blown HV fuses during operationShort circuit in the system on the secondary side.Remove the failure in the system.
Perforation of insulating material.Contact manufacturer.
Triggering of differential relay during operationFailure in the transformer.Contact manufacturer.
Failure in current transformers feeding the relay.Check current transformer.
Abnormal operating temperatureInsufficient ventilation. High ambient temperature.Check ventilation of premises. Consider installation of cooling fans.
Transformer overloaded.Consider load reduction or installation of a transformer with higher power rating.
Local heating at the transformer terminals.Clean contact surfaces and retighten.
Excessive cable heating.Check the current-carrying capacity of the cable. Consider installation arrangement and the size of the cable.
High voltage to earthEarth failure on one phase.Remove failure
High acoustical sound levelSupply voltage higher than presupposed. Loose accessories or elements.Change bolted links connection. Retighten.
Reflection from walls and other elements.Install sound damping panels. Place the transformer in non-parallel direction to the walls. Use damping pads below the transformer.
Low frequency.Contact electricity utility.
SmokeInsulation failure.Contact manufacturer.

NOTE! – Contact specialists before inspection, adjustment and repair of vital parts. Observe guarantee conditions.

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3.2 Fault localisation advices oil immersed transformers

The table below includes all types of oil immersed transformers.

SymptomsProbable causesSolutions
Low insulation resistanceEarth fault. Oil deficency.Contact manufacturer.
Unexpected secondary voltagePrimary voltage. Absence of primary voltage.Check installation and contact the electricity ct utility.
Tap changer or bolted links incorrectly positioned or connected.Change position or connection.
Winding rupture.Contact manufacturer.
Non-symmetrical voltages on the secondary sideBlown fuse in one phaseChange fuse.
Bolted links incorrectly connected in one of the phases.Check the connections. Check installation and contact the electricity utility.
Winding rupture.Contact manufacturer.
LV installation. Non-symmetrical load on the secondary side.Check LV installation.
No voltage applied in one of the phases on the primary side.Contact the electricity utility.
Triggering of the over- current relayShort circuit in the system on the secondary side.Remove the failure in the system.
Winding rupture.Contact manufacturer.
Triggering of differential relay during operationInternal failure in the transformer.Contact manufacturer.
Failure in current transformers feeding the relay.Check current transformers.
Spurious triggering during operationTriggering and alarm incorrectly set. Incorrect thermometer operation.Check settings. Check thermometer.
Defect Pt100 sensors or thermistors.Check sensors or thermistors.
Relays incorrect timing.Check timing.
Short circuit in the control system on the secondary side.Remove the failure in the control system.
Abnormal operating temperature measured by thermography.Local heating at the transformer terminals.Clean contact surfaces and retighten.
Excessive cable heating.Undersized cables.
Winding and/or Top-oil thermometer alarm and/or tripInsufficient ventilation. High ambient temperature.Check ventilation of premises. Consider installation of cooling fans.
Transformer overloaded.Consider load reduction or installation of a transformer with higher power rating.
Reduced oil, water or air circulation.Check oil, water and air circulation.
Too high oil temperature.Reduce load.
Too high water temperature.Reduce load.
Measurement of unexpected voltage to earth.Earth failure on one phase.Remove failure.
High acoustical sound levelSupply voltage higher than presupposed. Loose accessories or elements.Reduce supply voltage or change position on tapchanger. Retighten.
Reflection from walls and other elements. Install sound damping panels. Place the transformer in non-parallel direction to the walls. Use damping pads below the transformer.
Low frequencyContact electricity utility.
SymptomsProbable causesSolutions
Oil flow tripOil circulation too lowOpen valves in oil circuit.
Oil pump protectionCheck oil pump and protection.
Buchholz-gas relay alarmGas-bubbles caused by local overheatingDe-energize the transformer. If the captured gas is inflammable: Carry out dissolved gas analysis (DGA). Contact manufacturer.
Gas-bubbles caused by incomplete bleedingIf the captured gas is not inflammable: Bleed the transformer properly and energize.
Buchholz-gas relay tripArcing in active partCarry out dissolved gas analysis (DGA). Contact manufacturer.
Oil level too lowAdjust oil level and repair leakages. Welding on the transformer is only allowed if the transformer is filled by oil / inert gas (nitrogen).
Oil level indicator: Alarm high level or Trip low levelIncorrect oil level.Adjust oil level. Repair leakages if any. Welding on the transformer is only allowed if the transformer is filled by oil / inert gas (nitrogen).
Water flow switch / indicator alarmToo low water flowIncrease water flow, clean water circuit / cooler.
Pressure differential relay alarmPressure difference oil / water less than 0.03 barReduce water pressure, check water flow, clean water circuit / cooler.
Leakage detector alarmLeakage in coolerRepair / change the cooler.
On load tap-changer protective relay tripSudden pressure rise tap-changer compartmentInspection / repair of tap-changer diverter switch.
On load tap-changer out of step tripOperation of tap-changer failedCheck tap-changer, interlocking and synchronism.
Pressure relief device tripSudden pressure rise transformerCarry out dissolved gas analysis (DGA). Contact manufacturer.
Gas monitoring alarmGas-detectionCarry out dissolved gas analysis (DGA). Contact manufacturer.

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3.3 Recording of disturbances

  • Date and time of the occurrence,
  • Data for installed overvoltage protection,
  • Network data, were connections or other relevant things made when the disturbance took place.
    What was the loading like; possible relay operations which took place elsewhere in the network (e.g. earth fault relay)
  • Weather data (thunderstorm, rain, etc.),
  • Is the gas relay filled with gas: colour and quality?
  • Is oil sooty?
  • Thermometer readings,
  • Were coolers or tank damaged?
  • Are there visible marks of arcing on e.g. the bushings, cover or conservator?
  • In case of dry-type transformers, are there humidity, contamination or visible marks of arcing on windings, cleats and leads? Gas-in-oil analysis for LDT units and power transformers? Any other observation.

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3.4 Function of transformer protective equipment

Operation of some protective equipment such as gas relay or differential relay does not always mean that the transformer is damaged. The gas relay can operate for example when: An air bubble has been left under the transformer cover. An air bubble is colourless and odourless.

A short-circuit current has passed the transformer. No gas bubbles. However if the gas has colour or smell, the transformer is damaged.


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3.5 Measurements

In addition to the above instructions, the following inspection measurements can be carried out:

  1. Transformer insulation resistance. To obtain reliable results, the insulators have to be dry, clean and overvoltage protection (surge arresters, RC-networks) has to be disconnected from the transformer.
  2. No-load current measurement by means of a variable low voltage source. The voltage during measurement should gradually be increased.
    The measured current should be compared with the no-load current measured in the delivery test. For higher voltages on the low-voltage side of the transformer the measured current will be in the range of a few milliamperes for a sound transformer
  3. Voltage ratio,
  4. DC resistances of windings should be compared with the DC resistance measured during delivery test. The temperature when the measurements were made must be considered.

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4. Transformer liquid and insulation

The task of oil in a transformer is to act as an electrical insulation and to transfer heat from the transformer’s active parts into coolers. Oil acts as a good electrical insulation only as long as it is satisfactorily dry and clean.

Moisture balance between the oil and the solid insulation implies that most of the moisture will gather in the paper insulation.

Moisture in insulation is one of the dominant ageing accelerators. It is recommended to dry the insulation when the moisture exceeds a certain level. Drying of the insulation and oil is recommended for large distribution and power transformers since this can be technically and economically motivated. Equipment for drying transformers at site is available and the residual moisture in the insulation will be less than 1% after drying with low frequency heating equipment.

During drying the transformer has to be de-energised. Drying time can vary from one to two weeks depending on the transformer size, amount of insulation and initial moisture level in the insulation.

Testing of oil in transformers should normally be performed 12 months after filling or refilling, subsequently annually on large distribution and power transformers. Testing of oil in on load tap changers must be performed according to the tap changer supplier’s recommendations.

To take oil samples from hermetically sealed transformers is normally not necessary, and should only be performed after consultation with manufacturer. The oil in this type of transformers is not in contact with the atmosphere, and less exposed to moisture.

Especially for large distribution and power transformers, oil regeneration / reclaiming of oil may be technically and economically motivated. Reclaiming implies filtering, de-gassing, removal of ageing by-products and addition of inhibitor if required.

Reclaiming of oil is performed with the transformer in service (operation). The transformer is only de-energised for a few hours when the equipment is connected and disconnected from the transformer.

If the oil is in good condition, except from particles present in the oil, filtering can be recommended for removal of the particles.

Often it is recommended to do both drying and reclaiming on the same transformer. Done at the right time, recommended by the supplier, ie. before the degradation of oil and insulation has gone too far, the lifetime of the transformer can be extended with several years.

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5. Bushings and joints

The porcelain insulators of transformer bushings ought to be cleaned during service interruptions as often as necessary. This is particularly important for places exposed to contamination and moisture.

Methylated spirit or easily evaporating cleaning agents can be used for cleaning.

The condition of external conductor and bus bar joints of transformer bushings shall be checked at regular intervals because reduced contact pressure in the joints leads to overheated bushings etc. and may cause the adjacent gasket to be destroyed by the heat.

A heat sensitive camera can be used to check the temperatures in joints, bushings etc.

Maintenance of HV condenser bushings shall be performed according to the instructions given by the bushing supplier.

Maintenance of transformer bushings
Maintenance of transformer bushings (photo credit: @CityPowerJhb via Twitter)

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6. Off-circuit tap changer

The transformation ratio can be adjusted with an off-circuit tap changer when the transformer is not energised.

The control shaft of the off-circuit tap changer is brought through the cover or the tank wall. The shaft end is provided with a handle, position indicator and locking device. When the tap changer is turned the locking device must be secured, because that assures that the off-circuit tap changer has been set to operating position.

Off-circuit tap changers do normally not require regular maintenance, but it is recommended that the off-circuit tap changer is moved from one extreme position to the other a few times during service interruption. This is necessary especially when the tap changer is moved infrequently. Moving from one position to another is performed either manually by a hand wheel or by a motor drive unit.

Total expected lifetime depends on the number of operations, normal current etc. Inspection / maintenance of tap-changers must only be carried out by trained and experienced personnel. See supplier’s documentation provided.

For dry-type transformers the off-circuit tap changing is generally done by means of bolted links.

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7. On-load tap-changer

Maintenance of on load tap-changer shall be performed according to the instructions given by the supplier of the tap-changer.

Reference should be made to IEC 60214 (Tap-changers) and IEC 60214-2 (Application guide for on-load tap-changers) and especially to the tap-changer manufacturers operation and maintenance instructions. In addition, it is strongly recommended that only suitably trained personnel should undertake OLTC examination and maintenance.

On-load tap-changers have to be maintained regularly. Maintenance interval and total expected lifetime depends on number of operations, normal current, if oil filtering unit is provided etc.

Maintenance of on-load tap-changer
Maintenance of on-load tap-changer (photo credit: reinhausen.com)

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8. Motor drive unit

Motor dose units have to be maintained regularly. Maintenance interval and total expected lifetime depends on number of operations. Only trained and experienced personnel must carry out maintenance of motor drive units.

See transformer supplier’s documentation provided.

Replacing the transfomer motor drive unit
Replacing the transfomer motor drive unit (photo credit: reinhausen.com)

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9. Oil filtering unit

The paper filter in the oil-filtering unit for the on-load tap-changer has to be changed when pressure loss has reached approximately 4 bars on the pressure gauge. You are advised to check the transformer supplier’s documentation.

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10. Coolers

Coolers are cleaned by means of e.g. brushing inside the water tubes or air side vacuum cleaning when necessary. Need for cleaning is indicated by increased pressure loss, decreased temperature-difference oil/water/air in/out, increased transformer temperature, decreased water flow etc.

You are advised to check the transformer supplier’s documentation.

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11. Liquid conservator with rubber diaphragm

The system consisting of oil conservator with rubber sack does normally not require any other maintenance than inspection of the silica gel breather. The silica gel shall be changed when approx. 2/3 of the silica gel has changed from blue to red colour (old type of silica gel) or from pink to white, respectively.

Liquid conservator with rubber diaphragm
Liquid conservator with rubber diaphragm

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12. Gaskets

The gaskets of the cover and flanges, as well as between bushings and cover, are usually made of liquid resistant vulcanised cork sheet, nitrite rubber or silicone sealant.

If the gaskets are leaking, leaks can usually be sealed by tightening the screws (bolts). When these gaskets have to be replaced, it is recommended to contact manufacturer. Liquid resistant rubber rings are used as gasket for bushing bolts, shafts and spindles. All these gaskets can be tightened and replaced from outside the tank.

When tightening the gaskets special care must be taken to prevent the breaking of screws (bolts) or the gasket “floats away” (if not in a groove) caused by the heavy pressure. In particular stud nuts must be tightened very carefully.

Repair of transformer gaskets
Repair of transformer gaskets

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13. Dry-type transformers

Dust and dirt on the transformer leads to reduced dialectical strength and cooling due to different environmental conditions where ventilated dry type transformers are installed. A periodic program for cleaning should be established for each installation.

Horizontal surfaces should be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner. Coils cooling ducts should be cleaned using dry compressed air or nitrogen (maximum pressure 3 bar). If the transformer is installed in an enclosure, the enclosure should be cleaned like switchgear cubicles. Dust accumulation on the enclosure ventilation opening is an indication that an intemal inspection should be made.

In addition to cleaning the following should also be carried out during the inspection:

  • The condition of external bolted electrical connections shall be checked and retightened.
  • Loose winding clamps shall be retightened.
  • The function of all warning devices shall be checked.
  • Cooling fans shall be cleaned like the transformer. Afterwards, check their function and operation.

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14. Surface protection

14.1. Painted surfaces

When repairing damaged paint, the points to be repainted should be cleaned from rust, dirt and grease before priming with a zinc rich primer prior to top coat paint. The final paint thickness should at least be equal to the original paint thickness.

By major paint damages contact with a specialised surface coating company is recommended.


14.2 Zinc coated surfaces

Zinc coated surfaces have a self-repairing, passivating, characteristic. Small damages as scratches do normally not need repairing. Larger areas, above 50 mm2, may need repair. After thoroughly cleaning apply zinc-rich (between 65-69% zinc by weight, or >92% by weight metallic zinc in dry film) paint to at least the same thickness as the original zinc coating.

Do not remove any original zinc during cleaning. The paint may be one-component (preferred) or two-component.

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Sources:

  • Transformer handbook by ABB

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author-pic

Edvard Csanyi

Electrical engineer, programmer and founder of EEP. Highly specialized for design of LV/MV switchgears and LV high power busbar trunking (<6300A) in power substations, commercial buildings and industry facilities. Professional in AutoCAD programming.

14 Comments


  1. Isaac longtau
    Jul 31, 2022

    What is bleeding as regards to feeling oil into the transformer bushing or hollow pipes


  2. Khalid Mahmood ismail
    May 21, 2022

    What are causes of oil mixing of tap changer unit and main tank of power Transformer.


  3. Raymundo V. Talaue
    Jul 05, 2021

    Good and effective maintenance prolongs the life of the equipment and ultimately contribute to reliable plant operation. Thank you, Edvard, for this useful article on transformer maintenance.


  4. MIGUEL CASTELLANI
    Dec 02, 2020

    Very useful,thank you for sharing your knowledge, they come to reinforce electrical engineering criteria.


  5. davidruai
    Oct 08, 2020

    Amizing topic


  6. Ben K
    Oct 06, 2020

    Many many thanks for your support and informations that you publish, since long time we follow you on that site EEP


    • Edvard
      Oct 06, 2020

      Thank you Ben, that’s very kind if you.


  7. ghazi
    Apr 21, 2020

    Very Nice


    • Muhammad
      Jul 01, 2020

      Even he don’t know the of yellow colour


  8. Yugal
    Feb 12, 2020

    Thank you for the valuable information. These type of information is really necessary as this is field/site knowledge which is generally not available in books in such a vivid fashion.


  9. Srinivasan ganasekaran
    Feb 12, 2020

    Very useful


  10. Iglash
    Feb 11, 2020

    Very nice and useful article


  11. Kenan
    Feb 11, 2020

    Topic presentation very elaborate. Keep it up

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