SFRA METHODS

The SFRA is a comparative method, meaning an evaluation of the transformer condition is done by comparing an actual set of SFRA results to reference results. Three
methods are commonly used to assess the measured traces:

Time-based current SFRA results will be compared to previous results of the same unit.

Type-based SFRA of one transformer will be compared to an equal type of transformer.

Phase comparison SFRA results of one phase will be compared to the results of the other phases of the same transformer.

How SFRA works

Transformers consist of multiple complex networks of capacitances and resistors that can generate a unique signature when tested at discreet frequencies and plotted as a
curve. The distance between conductors of the transformer forms a capacitance. Any movement of the conductors or windings will change this capacitance. This capacitance
being a part of complex L (inductance), R (Resistance) and C (Capacitance) network, any change in this capacitance will be reflected in the curve or signature.
The SFRA test is carried out to obtain initial signature of the transformer sweep frequency response by injecting various discreet frequencies, which is then used as reference
for future comparisons. Any fault giving rise to change in winding movement etc. will result in change in capacitance or inductance thereby affecting the measured curves.
Tests are carried out periodically or during major external events like short circuits and results compared against the initial signature to test for any problems. The basic
functionality of SFRA supports following measuring modes. Voltage transfer function Uo/Ui (f) SFRA test reveals if the transformers mechanical or electrical integrity has been
compromised.

Problems that can be detected

SFRA analysis can detect problems in transformers such as:

winding deformation axial & radial, like hoop buckling, tilting, spiralling

faulty grounding of core or screens

displacements between high and low voltage windings

core movement

partial winding collapse

broken clamping structures

shorted or open turns

problematic internal connections

Uses

To obtain initial signature of healthy transformer for future comparisons

Periodic checks as part of regular maintenance

Immediately after a major external event like short circuit

Transportation or relocation of transformer

Earthquakes

Pre-commissioning check

SFRA kits With Testing Dept.

Doble: M5200/M5400 Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer

Megger: FRAX99/101/150 Sweep Frequency Response Analyzer

SOP FOR SFRA OF POWER TR. USING MEGGER FRAX

All the Transformer windings must be disconnected from any external connection including neutral earthing.

The transformer tank must be properly grounded.

If the transformer is equipped with an On Load Tap Changer (OLTC), the recommendation is to put the OLTC in the position to include all tap windings
in circuit ("Extreme Raise" position), and note that this OLTC position is used. If the measurements are done at several positions note the tap positions.

Connect the FRAX instrument to station earth/ground. The separate earth/ground wire should be the first connection made and the last removed.

Connect the test lead BNC connectors to the FRAX instrument Generator (yellow), Reference (red) and Measure (black).

Test leads continuity and integrity should be checked by performing FRA self-check using a standard test object.This is also a valuable checking for
FRA test equipment.

Remove paint and or rust from the nuts or bolts used on the flange for proper measurement & earthing connections. Connect the red and yellow
(source and reference) to the clamp at the top of a bushing and corresponding ground braid to the base of bushing. Connect the black (measure) lead to
the clamp at the top of the other bushing and the corresponding ground braid to the base of bushing. Make sure that the braids do not touch any
conducting part at top of bushing.

ACCESORIES

CONNECTING CLAPS

PHYSICAL CONNECTIONS OF CLAPS

Connect the AC/DC Adapter to the FRAX and a power source If not using Bluetooth communication; connect the USB cable to the FRAX and your
Laptop.

Turn on the FRAX. Start FRAX-software on your PC and establish communication, "Connect" by select Connect in under menu File or use the F7key.

FTB-101 is a field test box that is intended to be used to verify the leads and the equipment as recommended by CIGRE and several others. Use the
FTB-101 and make a test sweep. If the hook-up and the equipment is good working order the sweep should look as the picture. You can compare the
results with the file FTB-101.frax that is shipped with the FRAX software.