Failure Reporting Process for Power Transformer

The transformer is an essential and expensive asset in a power system, playing a crucial role in maintaining system reliability and availability. A transformer failure can result in significant economic consequences and lengthy replacement lead times.

To enhance transformer reliability, availability, and maintainability, it is imperative to establish a well-organized failure reporting system. This system enables the collection and analysis of meaningful data, helping stakeholders comprehend the existing product requirements. Implementing such a system requires expertise, dedication, and sincerity.

Leading utility companies worldwide have devised their approaches to transformer failure reporting. IEEE C57.125 – Guide for Failure Investigation, Documentation, and Analysis for Power Transformers and Shunt Reactors offers comprehensive coverage of this subject.

While there is currently no Indian BIS standard specifically addressing this topic, M/s CEA (Central Electricity Authority), under the Ministry of Power, has developed a template for capturing power transformer and shunt reactor failures. This template is available for download from the provided web portal.

https://cea.nic.in/failure-type/failures-of-power-equipment/?lang=en

This paper deliberates important aspects of failure reporting process for Transformer and Shunt reactors and suggest further improvements using latest analytical tools.