Weidmann’s Diagnostic Service Centers are located throughout the world to deliver to you responsive service and industry leading analytical testing of electrical insulating materials.
Tests include:
Dissolved Gas Analysis (DGA) is widely accepted as the most reliable tool for the earliest detection of incipient faults in fluid filled electrical apparatus. Under normal operating conditions very little decomposition of the dielectric fluid occurs. However, when a thermal or electrical fault develops, dielectric fluid and solid insulation will partially decompose. Analysis of the quantity of each of the fault gases present in the fluid will identify fault processes such as corona, sparking, overheating and arcing.
The ability of an insulating fluid to serve as an effective insulator and coolant is adversely affected by deterioration.
To ensure safety, continuity of service and efficient low-cost maintenance, insulating fluids must be regularly monitored with a program of physical, chemical & electrical testing.
Whether the fluid is mineral oil, silicone, less flammable hydrocarbons, Askarel, natural or synthetic esters, Weidmann offers technical expertise and guidance for all tests performed.
The EPA has designated Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) an environmental hazard. The EPA has concluded that PCBs are both toxic and persistent.
Weidmann Electrical Technology uses EPA Method 8082a in the USA, and ASTM D4059, or M.A.400-BPC in Canada. Weidmann is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 for PCB in insulating fluid analysis. Weidmann Electrical Technology has a proven history of providing accurate results. Our investment in state-of-the-art Gas Chromatographs (GCs) means:
The degree of polymerization (DP) of paper can be determined in the laboratory utilizing ASTM method D-4243. Acquisition of a paper sample is an invasive and expensive procedure that requires taking the unit off line.
Furan analysis is a non-invasive alternative. The procedure is based on the determination of oil soluble cellulose decomposition products. Weidmann can isolate these compounds from an oil sample and analyze them with High Performance Liquid Chromatography, HPLC. Knowing the insulation condition is key to loading and life expectancy of the transformer.
Metal analysis pinpoints the location of faults within transformers and provides other vital information about a transformer’s operation. Whether testing for excessive wear in oil circulation pumps or the condition of LTC or OCB contacts, a diagnostic analysis can be quickly and accurately performed.
It is generally accepted that the degree of paper insulation degradation or ageing correlates with a transformer’s useful or end-of-life determination, and having an understanding or clear picture of the chemical, physical, and electrical condition of the
insulation system is essential to effectively managing its operation. In the last decade, research at Hydro Quebec found that methanol offered the greatest potential in the ageing measurement of oil-impregnated insulation in power transformers. They demonstrated the link between the generation of methanol in oil and the degradation process of the paper.
Benefits
Unique, advanced No-Haz SF6 Sampling Kits allow you to obtain a proper SF6 sample – without generating any emissions – then properly & legally ship your non-compressed
No-Haz SF6 samples to our laboratory, eliminating the need for haz-mat certified shipping staff. This advantage allows any international customer to obtain SF6 samples, then quickly & economically ship these samples to Weidmann for analysis and rapid report generation.
Benefits