#22: Partial Discharge Testing on Cast-Resin Transformers in Wind Parks

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In this episode, OMICRON partial discharge (PD) testing experts Christoph Engelen and Dr. Alex Kraetge discuss the importance of performing off-line PD measurements on cast-resin transformers used in wind park turbines to prevent their in-service failure. They also describe how the related measurement challenges of limited space and surrounding noise can best be overcome with the right diagnostic methods and tools.

How to master the PD measurement challenges of limited space and noise in the test environment.

Large-scale wind parks utilize different types of transformers, including cast-resin, also known as dry-type transformers, installed in wind turbines.
The most common reason for failure in various types of transformers is the electric breakdown of the insulation due to a wide variety of factors. Partial discharge (PD) measurements performed during commissioning and in a periodic maintenance plan can reduce the risk of in-service transformer failures.

However, performing onsite PD testing on cast-resin transformers installed in the constricted spaces of wind park turbines can be quite challenging. In addition, surrounding high electromagnetic interferences, or noise, can affect the ability to reliably detect harmful PD activity.

In this episode, OMICRON PD measurement experts Christoph Engelen and Dr. Alex Kraetge discuss how off-line PD testing is performed on cast-resin transformers in wind park turbines, what needs to be considered and how the related measurement challenges can best be overcome with the right diagnostic tools.

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