A Novel Computational Approach to Transformer Health Assessment

Accurate assessment of power transformers is essential for ensuring the reliable operation of oil and gas plants. Despite comprehensive maintenance strategies, transformer failures still occur, leading to unplanned shutdowns and losses. In this work, a tool called Programmed Analysis of Transformer Health (PATH) was developed for innovative transformer health assessment using a health index and risk matrix approach. PATH incorporates operational history, operating data, test data and potential cost impacts due to transformer failure. It evaluates 34 parameters for the main tank and 24 for the on-load tap changer (OLTC), converting each into a health score based on international standards and operational experience. Weightage is applied according to the parameters' impact on overall transformer health. The total weighted score determines the health index. The health index and cost impact is then mapped to identify the risk rating. Two pilot studies using data from PETRONAS plants validated the accuracy of PATH, providing health index and risk rating that support investment and maintenance decisions. The success of the pilot studies signifies that PATH is ready to be replicated and adopted across the organisation for enhanced transformer management.