Oil Transformer Gas Venting Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oil transformers face challenges in safely returning analyzed oil samples without allowing dissolved carrier gases to enter the transformer tank, as the outgassing process is lengthy and can take several days, risking contamination and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a liquid, such as an oil sample, into an enclosed cavity system that includes a Buchholz protective relay, allows for controlled degassing over time, preventing direct entry into the transformer tank and enabling efficient gas removal through a closable venting mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If oil samples are returned to the transformer tank directly after analysis, then oil loss is minimized, but carrier gases dissolved in the oil sample will contaminate the transformer tank
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary degassing chamber between the oil sample return path and the transformer tank. This chamber allows carrier gases to escape from the oil sample before the oil is returned to the main transformer tank, thus preventing gas contamination while still achieving oil recovery
Solution Approach 2:
The return path for oil samples is segmented into multiple stages: first the oil is introduced into a degassing chamber where gases escape, then the degassed oil is returned to the transformer tank. This segmentation separates the degassing function from the oil return function
2Reliability
If the oil conservator is kept closed to prevent contamination, then oil purity is maintained, but gases produced during operation cannot escape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the gas venting function from the main oil conservator by providing a separate gas collection chamber with its own venting mechanism. This allows the main conservator to remain closed for contamination prevention while gases are separately collected and vented through the dedicated chamber
Solution Approach 2:
A separate gas collection chamber acts as an intermediary between the closed oil conservator and the external environment. Gases are collected in this intermediate chamber and vented separately, allowing the main oil system to remain sealed
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a closed cavity system is used to prevent contamination, then oil contamination risk is reduced, but the system cannot vent gases without additional openings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the gas collection chamber's opening multi-functional: it serves both as an entry point for introducing oil samples and as a venting point for releasing gases. This eliminates the need for separate openings and reduces overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the oil sample introduction function and the gas venting function into a single opening and chamber system, reducing the number of separate components needed while maintaining both functions
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
This method ensures safe and efficient degassing of carrier gases from returned oil samples, preventing contamination of the transformer tank and reducing the risk of gas accumulation, while maintaining a closed cavity system for enhanced oil management.
Implementation Method 1
at least one enclosed cavity arranged along the flow duct and/or on the oil conservator and connected to it for collecting from within the transformer tank and/or or the oil expansion tank released and/or emerging gas
Implementation Method 2
the cavity has a closable opening for venting gas in its upper region
Implementation Method 3
The transformer oil increases or decreases its volume as a function of the operating oil temperature
Implementation Method 4
the outgassing of the carrier gas from the oil sample is a lengthy process which can take several days
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The oil transformer (50) is provided with a transformer tank (12), where an oil expansion tank (14) is connected to the transformer tank by flow channels (16a,16b,16c). The hollow chambers (18a,18b) are provided along the flow channel or on the oil expansion tank. The closing openings (20a,20b) are provided for discharging gas. An independent claim is also included for a method for recycling of an oil sample into an oil transformer.