Understanding the Root Causes for Transformer Blowing

In the electrical industry, transformer blowing is a common problem that can cause significant damage and stop the flow of power. It might be challenging to identify the exact reason for a transformer blowing due to the wide variety of complex factors that may be involved. This article will discuss the main causes of transformer blowing and prevention actions.

What Causes a Transformer to Blow?

The causes of transformer blowing are:

1. Overheating

One of the most prevalent causes of transformer blowouts is overheating. Transformer oil serves as a coolant and is used to diffuse the heat generated by the transformer. If the transformer is overloaded, the oil may not be able to dissipate the heat which could result in overheating and eventually lead to the transformer failing.

2. Short Circuit

Another frequent cause of blown transformers is a short circuit. When the electrical current takes an unexpected turn, it shorts out and increases the amount of current flowing through the transformer. This increase in current can cause the transformer to overheat and blow.

3. Overloading

The overloading of the transformer is a key additional element in transformer blowing. Overloading happens when a transformer is asked to bear more load than it was designed to. This may lead to the transformer being overloaded and ultimately failing.

4. Age

Age is another factor that might cause a transformer to blow. As a transformer ages, it may lose efficiency and become more susceptible to failure. Additionally, the transformer’s oil may degrade or pollute which could cause an increase in heat and a breakdown of the transformer.

5. Lack of maintenance

Proper maintenance is crucial in preventing transformer blowing. Regular testing and inspections can help find potential problems before failure occurs. Additionally, routine cleaning and oil changes may help to keep the transformer functional.

6. Lighting strike

Lightning strikes can potentially cause transformer blowing. The transformer could become too hot and stop working as a result of an electrical surge brought on by a lightning strike. By starting a fire or setting off an explosion, a lightning strike can actually damage the transformer.

7. Corrosion

Corrosion might also result in transformer blowing. Over time, exposure to outside elements like moisture and salt may cause the transformer’s components to corrode. Corrosion could cause physical harm to the transformer which could lead to failure.

8. Faulty design

A transformer with a poor design may also be more prone to failure. A transformer that hasn’t had enough testing or isn’t designed to handle the load for which it was designed could overheat and finally stop working.

9. Poor installation

Poor installation can potentially result in a transformer blowing. Inadequate transformer installation can lead to overheating, short circuits and other problems that can make it break down. If a transformer is not placed properly, it may also be more susceptible to environmental hazards like floods and lightning strikes.

10. Inadequate protection

Inadequate protection may also contribute to transformer blowing. In addition to overloading and short circuits, transformers also need to be protected from lightning strikes and other electrical malfunctions. Inadequate protection may cause a transformer to fail.

In conclusion, transformer blowing is a common issue in the electrical sector that can result in significant damage and disruption in power delivery. The causes of transformer blowing can vary, with overheating, short circuits, overloading, age, lack of maintenance, lighting strikes, corrosion, faulty design, poor installation and inadequate protection all being potential factors. Preventative measures, such as regular testing and inspections, oil changes, cleaning, proper installation and protection can help to reduce the risk of transformer failure. It is important for electrical professionals to be aware of these potential causes and take appropriate steps to prevent transformer blowing.