An electric power transformer\u00a0Damage is one of the most important elements of the modern electric grid no matter where in the world a particula grid may be located. \u00a0Transformer failures result in significant financial expenditures, and will require the transmission company to buy new transforners or repair the damaged ones at significant cost and service interuptions.<\/p>\n
Many historians note that there was great industrial boom observed in the first decade followintg the end of World War II. \u00a0At that time, there was a rapid increase in electric power consumption. \u00a0To meet the growing demand for electric power, new transformers had to constantly be put into operation. \u00a0Since that time, mant of the older transformers have become outdated and pose a big risk of unscheduled service interuptions.<\/p>\n
Older transformers\u2019 obsolescence however, is not the only problem facing the modern power grids. \u00a0The power loads on the obsolete transformers are increasing because of ever increasing power consumption. \u00a0It requires significant expenditures to replace the broken or obsolete transformer since the price for a new transformer is very high.<\/p>\n
It is therefore, advisable to take measures to extend the service life of transformers already in service. \u00a0To succeed in undertaking a sucessful preventive maintenance program, one should understand the nature of the failures that make transformers unserviceable in the first place.<\/p>\n
In 2003, the International Association of Engineering Insurers (IMIA) started to explore the reasons for transformer failures servicing the combined USA power grids. \u00a0The results were rather interesting. \u00a0Table 1 shows the economic losses caused by different types of transformer failures.<\/p>\n
Table 1<\/b><\/p>\n
Economical Losses Caused by Different Transformer failures<\/b><\/p>\n