How to deal with the overload problem of box-type transformers?

As an important part of the power system, the operating status of box-type transformers is directly related to the stability and safety of the entire power system. When the box-type transformer is overloaded, it may cause equipment heating, insulation damage, and even cause failures, thus affecting the normal operation of the power system. Therefore, it is very important to deal with the overload problem of box-type transformers.

box-type transformers

Causes of overload

Load increase: As the demand for electricity increases, the load continues to increase and exceeds the design capacity of the transformer.

Equipment aging: The transformer has been used for too long. The equipment has aged and the performance has declined. These reasons result in frequent overload problems.

Rising ambient temperature: The operating environment temperature of the transformer is too high, resulting in poor heat dissipation and aggravating the overload phenomenon.

Improper selection: When selecting the transformer, the demand for future load growth is not fully considered, resulting in insufficient capacity.

Methods to solve the overload problem of box-type transformers

‌Install overload protection device‌: Configure accurate overcurrent protection devices, such as electronic overload relays or thermal magnetic releases. Automatically cut off the power supply when the current exceeds the safety setting value to prevent overload‌.

‌Regular load monitoring‌: Use intelligent monitoring systems to monitor the load changes of transformers in real time. Analyze load trends and promptly detect potential overload risks‌.

‌Balanced load distribution‌: Rationally plan the distribution system to balance the load of each phase as much as possible to avoid single-phase overload‌.

‌Regular maintenance and inspection‌: Regularly perform maintenance and inspection of transformers, including insulation resistance testing, oil quality analysis (for oil-immersed transformers), cleaning cooling systems, etc., to ensure that the transformer is in good condition‌.

‌Load management‌: By rationally configuring electrical equipment, avoid turning on a large number of high-power devices at the same time and balance the load‌.

Technical transformation and upgrading: If the existing transformer frequently encounters overload problems, technical transformation or upgrading can be considered. For example, replacing large-capacity transformers and adopting intelligent power management systems.

Adding spare transformers: If conditions permit, spare box-type transformers can be configured in important load areas. In this way, when the main transformer is overloaded or fails, it can be quickly switched to the spare transformer to ensure stable power supply. At the same time, the spare transformer should be regularly maintained to ensure that it is available at any time.

Improve employee skill level: Regularly train employees on transformer operation and maintenance to improve their skill level and safety awareness. This helps employees better understand and deal with overload problems and ensure safe and stable operation of transformers.

Transformer overload operation is a common fault phenomenon that may have a serious impact on the power system. To deal with the problem of transformer overload operation, it is necessary to first find the source of the problem and then take appropriate measures to deal with it. In practical applications, it is necessary to select the appropriate method according to the specific situation to ensure the safe and stable operation of the power system.