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Substation Transformer Replacement - Soliciting Opinions

Substation Transformer Replacement - Soliciting Opinions

Substation Transformer Replacement - Soliciting Opinions

(OP)
We've recently had a five year old General Electric ED&C oil-filled pad mount transformer fail. It is rated 3000 KVA/OA, and 3750 KVA/FA with a 65°C rise, and uses aluminum windings on both primary and secondary. This transformer was relatively lightly loaded (line amps are typically in the 2550-2600 amp range), and top oil temperature rarely rose above 55°C.

We're in the process of having GE evaluate the cause for the failure, but, for reasons of logistics, are looking at replacing it with either a remanufactured or new transformer.

1). One manufacturer under serious consideration for the replacement is Solomon Corporation in Kansas, who has quoted manufacturing a new transformer with the same specifications (except for using copper windings rather than aluminum). All my research to date indicates Solomon is a reputable and well regarded transformer company, and I'm looking for opinions from anybody who has either pro and con comments regarding them.

2). The failed GE transformer was built in the ED&C, Plainville, CT plant. Two others installed wthin a year of this one are 'Prolec' transformers built in Apodaca, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Of these, one failed immediately after initial power-up, and was replaced with another. I'm guessing GE moved their transformer manufacturing to Mexico in the time frame we were purchasing them, and prompts me to wonder if they were having quality control issues during the transition. Wondering if anybody else has run into problems with GE transformers built around that time?

3). More generally, I'm fishing for opinions on who makes what may be referred to as 'top tier' oil-filled transformers in the 1500 to 4000 KVA range. Cooper comes to mind (we have an old McGraw-Edison that keeps chugging along), and a Square D (although its my understanding they are no longer in this end of the business). Who would be your pick for the top three transformer companies, and why?

Thanks in advance for any opinions, observations, and other comments.

Bob

RE: Substation Transformer Replacement - Soliciting Opinions


Might consider manufacturer on-site visit to witness production tests conducted to prepare certified test report.  Ask questions of test crew.

If referenced in procurement documents or claimed in manufacturer literature, review applicability of IEEE Std C57.12.90-1999, IEEE Std C57.12.00-2000 and ANSI C57.12.10, particularly with respect to pre-shipping electrical tests.  

May want to conduct {NETA-type} electrical-acceptance / oil tests after boltdown but before energization.

May want to “rubberneck” CSI-type specs currently posted, like..
http://facilities.uchicago.edu/organization/promgm...
or http://specsintact.ksc.nasa.gov/masters/NASA%20mas...
or www.ccb.org/docs/NASAASC/NS16366.pdf
or www.cooperpower.com/Products/Specifications/Word/8...
  

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