H2scan TM Catalog 2025 - Flipbook - Page 45
Background
Recently, the utility removed a transformer from service due to gassing issues. This transformer was initially
installed in 2012 and had not reached the end of its anticipated service lifespan. The utility performed degassing,
replaced insulating 昀氀uids and put the transformer back into service. What would best assist the utility was a
system that could provide real-time, continuous monitoring and actionable data that would allow staff to
instantly evaluate the transformer’s condition since frequent manual testing was impractical and time-consuming.
Furthermore, the utility needed the solution to be cost-effective.
Beta Testing H2scan Sensors
In late 2023, the utility decided to beta test the H2scan GRIDSCAN™ 5000 Hydrogen Sensor on a 24 KVA,
115/13.2 kV transformer. This transformer had a known history of gassing issues, making this piece of
equipment an ideal candidate for the pilot program.
The H2scan sensor was installed in December 2023—an installation that took less than two hours to complete
without requiring an outage or power shutdown. The utility was impressed with the ease of installation and the
ability to access data via the cloud.
In April 2024, the transformer was energized with load. In May 2024, less than a month later, the H2scan sensor
detected a signi昀椀cant increase in hydrogen levels in the transformer. Upon receiving this information, the utility
pulled a manual sample for lab testing. The lab results con昀椀rmed 80 parts per million (ppm) of hydrogen and 52
ppm of acetylene in the sample, closely matching the H2scan sensor’s reading of 82-83 ppm of hydrogen.
The Solution
After receiving the lab results con昀椀rming the
elevated levels of hydrogen and acetylene, the
utility took immediate action. They de-energized
the transformer and asked the transformer
manufacturer to inspect the unit. During this inspection, the team discovered that the low-side winding
was severely damaged. Based on these 昀椀ndings, the utility decided to permanently remove this unit from
service and seek a replacement unit.
The utility was able to leverage the data from the sensor as a life extension or service determination
tool. Early warning of the presence of hydrogen alerted the utility to a potential problem, enabling its
staff to send a team for inspection and to pull the transformer from service, saving it from a potentially
catastrophic failure. It demonstrated the value of real-time monitoring by enabling the utility to take
proactive measures to protect their infrastructure and maintain reliable service to their customers.
The performance of the GRIDSCAN 5000 Hydrogen Monitor in this situation showcased its key features:
1. Early detection capability, providing a timely warning
2. Continuous, real-time data monitoring
3. Accuracy in harsh environmental conditions, including corrosive saline atmospheres
4. Cost-effectiveness, priced signi昀椀cantly lower than competitors’ options
5. Ease of deployment, making it ideal for widespread use across multiple transformers
90000258
pg.45
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