This section describes the basic operational essentials for the Serveron On-Line Transformer Monitor TM series and the most common methods of collecting data. The On-Line Transformer Monitor technology from Serveron Corp. is a remotely deployed laboratory grade gas chromatograph which can be safely installed onto an energized or non-energized transformer. The purpose of this monitor is to detect and measure fault gases found in an electrical power transformer„s insulating oil. This monitor is designed and constructed to resist environmental conditions relevant to a transformer substation.

The On-Line Transformer Monitor is a precision device. The heart of the monitor is a specially constructed gas chromatograph designed to measure fault gases. Serveron offers two versions of products, application dependant. The TM8 measures eight IEEE recommended fault gases- hydrogen (H2), oxygen (O2), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), ethylene (C2H4),ethane (C2H6), and acetylene (C2H2). The TM3 measures the three Duval Triangle fault gases- methane(CH4), ethylene (C2H4), and acetylene (C2H2). The On-Line Transformer Monitor may be used on conservator or nitrogen blanketed transformers. However, in all cases, the sample of gas is extracted directly from the oil within the transformer.

Oil is circulated from transformer, to the monitor, and then returned to the transformer through ¼-inch O.D. stainless steel tubing. Stainless steel tubing is used in conjunction with compression fittings to minimize the risk of leaks. The monitor is outfitted with an internal gas extraction system which removes dissolved gases from the circulating transformer oil. Helium is used as a carrier gas to help transport the extracted sample gases through the gas chromatograph. The oil circulation and gas extraction paths in the On-Line Transformer Monitor are shown below.

Data is collected in the monitor each time a gas chromatograph (GC) analysis is completed. The GC analysis takes approximately 40 minutes. Once an analysis has been completed, the optional Serveron Monitoring Service (SMS) or TM View software can be used to view the monitor‟s data. The monitor is set up to perform a sample analysis once every four hours (default). All data captured during an analysis is stored on compact flash memory within the monitor. The compact flash memory holds approximately (2) years of data. The TM View software or Serveron Monitoring Service (SMS) will allow the end user to track the gas ppm levels over time and monitor the gas levels against user defined caution and alarm settings.

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