Transformer Fault Gas Detection via Expansion Tank Level Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fault gas detection systems in liquid-filled high voltage transformers do not provide a warning for electrical faults, as fault gas is automatically and undetectedly exhausted, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A fault gas detection system that accumulates fault gas in a chamber within the transformer, using a fluid-channel and level sensor to measure the liquid level drop caused by gas accumulation, thereby indicating the presence of fault gas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fault gas is automatically exhausted through the expansion tank, then pressure damage is prevented, but fault detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A liquid level sensor is introduced as an intermediary detection device that monitors the liquid level in the expansion tank. The sensor detects changes in liquid level caused by fault gas accumulation, providing fault information without blocking the gas exhaust path. This mediator enables both pressure relief and fault detection functions to coexist.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid level sensor provides feedback about the gas accumulation status in the expansion tank. When the liquid level drops due to gas accumulation, the sensor triggers a warning signal, creating a feedback loop that enables fault detection while maintaining the automatic exhaust function for pressure safety.
2Loss of information
If commercial gas relay sensors are used for fault detection, then fault detection capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex commercial gas relay sensors with a simple, inexpensive liquid level sensor. The level sensor is a basic component that detects liquid level changes caused by gas accumulation, providing fault detection capability at a fraction of the cost and complexity of dedicated gas detection sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing liquid in the expansion tank as the detection medium. The liquid itself serves dual purposes: maintaining pressure equilibrium and enabling fault detection through level changes. This eliminates the need for separate, complex gas sensing systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a simple and cost-effective means to detect fault gas, offering a first warning of potential failures, allowing for timely analysis and prevention of damage.
Implementation Method 1
A fault gas detection system accumulates fault gas in a chamber within the transformer, using a fluid-channel and level sensor to measure the liquid level drop caused by gas accumulation
Data Source
AI summary
A fault gas detection system for a liquid filled high voltage transformer, the transformer including a main tank and an expansion tank the tanks fluidic connected by an exchange conduit such that gas and/or a transformer liquid is able to exchange between the tanks, the gas detection system including: a chamber with a top cover,a predefined horizontal level-plane in the chamber defining a maximum liquid level of a transformer liquid in the chamber during use,a fluid-channel including a fluid-egress at a level equal to or higher than the top cover and a fluid-ingress lower than the level of the level-plane,a level sensor designed to measuring and/or indicating a liquid level.A respective transformer and a respective wind turbine system is also provided.