Dielectric

(Frequency)
Response Analysis

By: JDerecho III

Presentation Outline

I. Purpose
II. Test Importance
III. Test Overview
IV. Test Equipment
V. Performing a Test
VI. Temperature Data Gathering
VII. Reporting
VIII. Interpretation
 Purpose

Dielectric response analysis, also known as dielectric frequency

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response analysis, is used to assess the moisture content of the

cellulose insulation and, thus, determine its condition.

Moisture in oil-paper insulated power transformers is produced by

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paper aging or enters the transformer via leaky seals or breathing. It

leads to a reduced breakdown strength and an increased aging of the
insulation.
 Test Importance

Knowing the moisture content is important for the

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condition assessment of the power transformer. Failure to

do so will have no basis of any necessary correction.
Moisture in the Transformer will:
lDecrease Dielectric Withstand
lAccelerate Aging Process

lEmit Gas Bubbles at High Temperature

Test Overview
Water Moisture
Test Overview
Test Overview
Test Overview
Test Overview
Test Overview
Test Overview
The Test Equipment

 Omicron DIRANA
- a Dielectric Response Analyzer
that utilizes both the FDS and
PDC in assessing the moisture
content of the transformer
Performing a Test
1. The main amount of cellulose insulation in the active part of a
power transformer is located between the primary and secondary
winding. To measure this insulation, the output is connected to the
high-voltage winding and the input to the low-voltage winding.
Unwanted capacitive and resistive currents are bypassed by the
guard connection which is applied to the tank.
Performing a Test
2. Connect the guard of both measurement cables to the
transformer tank. Insure a good connection; avoid lacquered
surfaces or corroded metal.
Performing a Test
3. The power factor/dissipation factor of this insulation is measured
over a wide frequency range. The resulting curve contains
information about the insulation condition.

4. The very low frequencies contain information on moisture in the

solid insulation, while the position of the slope in the mid range
frequencies indicates the conductivity of the liquid insulation. This
curve is automatically compared to model curves and the moisture
content of the cellulose insulation is calculated.
Temperature Data Gathering
Reporting
Interpretation
Interpretation
Dielectric (Frequency) Response Analysis

End of Presentation