It is difficult to quantify the magnitude of a potential equipment failure; one can only hope that thorough and intrusive methods of procedure exist to negate such instances.  One of our local customers is a testament to such proactive behaviors, hedging off three potentially cataclysmic component failures.  After performing a full insulating oil and dissolved gas analysis for over two dozen oil-immersed electrical distribution devices, it was revealed that several distribution transformers had elevated gas levels within the containment chambers.  When electrical arcing, flashing, or tracking occur within a given oil-immersed component, different gases become present and accelerate the deterioration of the insulating oil.  This is a case &  point as to the importance of setting up a regimented oil sampling program, a program that is budgeted for and consistently executed.

In order to make this process NFPA 70e-compliant, create maximum ease of extraction, and to minimize the down time typically associated with taking oil samples from pad-mount transformers, APS has created Safe Sample boxes for our customers who are vigilant in maintaining their gear.  Through the use of NEMA 3R construction enclose  we are able to re-route the oil valve so that we are able to extract oil from inside the transformer secondary compartment to the outside the flash protection boundary.  Furthermore, we install a schrader valve and PSI gauge so that personnel can pressurize accordingly, without every having to open the secondary cabinet of a live transformer.  Finally, we install a view window on the face of the secondary cabinet for 70e-compliant viewing purposes of the oil level and temperature gauges.  This is undoubtedly the safest and most beneficial retrofit a facility manager can perform, while being extremely cost-friendly.  Contact your APS Systems Consultant today to help address your distribution needs.