Transformer Oil Sampling Device with Airtight Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Obtaining oil samples from transformers while minimizing atmospheric contamination is challenging, which is crucial for early detection of corrosive sulphur formation to prevent transformer failures and associated economic and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for transferring oil from a syringe to a vial using an oil transfer device that creates an airtight connection, purges the vial with inert gas, and positions the syringe for precise oil filling, minimizing air contact and contamination, followed by analysis using gas chromatography for compound content determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional oil sampling methods are used, then sampling can be performed, but atmospheric contamination occurs during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inert atmosphere by purging the transfer line and sampling chamber with nitrogen gas to displace atmospheric air. This creates an oxygen-free, moisture-free environment during oil sample transfer, preventing oxidation and contamination that would otherwise occur with traditional open-air sampling methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a needle-based transfer mechanism as an intermediary between the oil source and analysis instrument. The needle penetrates seals to create a closed transfer path, acting as a mediator that enables sample transfer without direct atmospheric exposure, thus maintaining sample integrity.
2Measurement precision
If manual transfer methods are used, then equipment complexity is low, but measurement precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical transfer operations with an automated system that uses gas pressure control and motorized needle positioning. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with controlled gas flow and automated mechanisms enables precise sample transfer while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design.
3Loss of time
If on-site analysis is performed, then response time is reduced, but portability requirements increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions (sampling, transfer, purification, and analysis) into a single integrated portable device. By combining these previously separate operations into one unified system, the patent enables on-site analysis without requiring multiple separate instruments, thus reducing overall complexity while maintaining rapid response capability.
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 solution ensures uncontaminated oil sampling and analysis, providing nearly quantitative results with 99.99% accuracy, allowing for early detection of corrosive sulphur formation and preventing transformer failures, while being portable for on-site use.
Implementation Method 1
purges the vial with inert gas
Implementation Method 2
analysis using gas chromatography for compound content determination
Data Source
AI summary
A system, device, and a method for determining a compound content in transformer oil are provided. The method includes positioning a syringe filled with transformer oil in the device to transfer the oil to a vial using the device. The device includes a stand, a threaded rod, a handle, a disc, and a syringe holder. The threaded rod is movable in a vertical direction by rotation of the handle and is configured to apply pressure via the disc on a plunger of the syringe positioned in the syringe holder to maintain an airtight connection between the vial and the device. The compound content is determined using a gas chromatograph by analyzing an aliquot extracted from a headspace gas of the vial.