The Difference Between High, Medium and Low Voltage Transformers

A voltage transformer is a device that lowers or increases the supplied voltage level to an acceptable level within a range of applications. Transformers are widely used within electrical distribution as the many different types of equipment used in a facility have different voltage ratings. Within this post, we’ll explore the differences between high, medium and low voltage transformers, their maintenance requirements and explain more about the value each system provides within specific power applications.

High Voltage Transformers

There are three specific types of high voltage transformers: high, extra high and ultra-high. Power plants utilize high voltage transformers to achieve efficiency and to transmit power over long distances.

Medium Voltage Transformers

A medium voltage transformer is a type of transformer that provides the final voltage transformation in the electrical power distribution system. The medium voltage transformer generally handles electrical levels between 69,000 volts on the high end and 2,400 volts on the low end – and companies use them in applications such as powering data centres.

Low Voltage Transformers

Low voltage transformers are used for low voltage electricity and lighting. It typically only uses between 12 to 24 volts. They are quite small in size and are usually built into external power cables and chargers. Low voltage transformers reduce the likelihood of excess voltage causing damage to your device/equipement.

Maintenance Tips for Transformers

With this additional information about the different types of transformer and their applications, it’s now the ideal time to review the maintenance tips for high, low and medium voltage transformers within your facilities. By following the guidance below, you can ensure your power structures perform efficiently and safely for the years ahead.

Form a Regular Inspection Plan

Your team should have an inspection plan to determine the level of wear and tear on the transformer over time. You might notice that components begin to wear if used within the facility over several years. Taking a proactive stance on inspection can help ensure that problems are analyzed before they cause lasting damage to the transformer or your facility.

Check Insulation Resistance

As insulation begins to wear down, contaminants can enter the oil within the transformer, potentially causing significant damage that may lead to a shutdown. Insulation resistance involves checking the oil within the system and analyzing the megger values. This data helps showcase the overall health of the insulation and the level of insulation resistance.

Review Oil Levels

Keep track of the oil levels within the transformer to ensure the system performs optimally for the years ahead. This tracking process involves reviewing the oil levels at least once per month. When the oil levels fall below safe operating levels, the components within the transformer may experience damage.

When checking the oil levels of your machinery, you may also analyze the silica gel breathing holes to ensure they are clean. You should also check all hoses and attachments for leaks. Then immediately speak with a repair specialist to repair any leaks or damage discovered during the inspection process.

Choose a Qualified Maintenance Professional For Transformer Analysis

In cases where your team doesn’t have the expertise to complete the required maintenance or the maintenance for medium, high and low voltage systems involves specialist equipment or services, such as repairing leaks within transformer components, you must work with qualified maintenance professionals. Below are several elements to consider when choosing your maintenance company.

Speed of Response

When you require transformer maintenance, the issue may cause an entire shutdown of your facility. This potential problem means you need access to qualified professionals quickly. Contact local companies in your region and make sure they’re able to send out a maintenance expert to your company on short notice. Contacting an expert now can help to safeguard your team against the dangers of malfunctioning equipment and ensure your systems are brought back online fast.

Proactive Maintenance Plans

When choosing a maintenance professional, you may wish to find a company that can meet your requirements for the years ahead. So you should select a firm that offers proactive maintenance plans as part of their selection. Proactive maintenance can help support your business and ensure you meet your targets over the coming years. Qualified companies can help you build a maintenance schedule so that transformers and their connected components perform to peak capacity around the clock.

Turn to IPE Canada for Transformer Maintenance Services

Our experts at IPE Canada have decades of experience offering clients across the country access to seasoned guidance.

We understand the challenges involved in managing your electrical systems and meeting ever-higher levels of demand. And that’s why we offer customized solutions to your unique systems challenges. To discover more about our transformer maintenance services, call IPE Canada at 844-762-1057 or contact us here.