HydroVision International 2015

MONTRANO Continuous monitoring of bushing and transformer insulation

OMICRON's new MONTRANO online monitoring system is focussed on assessing the dielectric health of power transformers under load.  The system records changes in capacitance (C), dissipation/power factor (DF/PF), partial discharge (PD) and transient over-voltages. These are primary indicators of insulation breakdown, which can lead to dielectric failure in bushings and transformers. Trend data enables reliable risk assessment to plan corrective action early to extend the life of power transformers. 

Reliable online results

MONTRANO minimizes the misleading impact that changes in grid unbalance (phase shifts) can have on C and DF/PF measurements. It achieves this by using the individual phases of a nearby voltage transformer as an absolute measurement reference. The resulting accuracy enables reliable comparison with recommended bushing supplier reference values to determine bushing insulation condition. A second transformer can be used for measurement comparison if a voltage transformer is not available.

Additionally, MONTRANO employs advanced noise suppression using UHF signals and a unique gating technique for reliable PD source recognition.  This
enables the system to effectively separate external noise, like corona, from harmful PD. MONTRANO also detects transients directly at the bushings to more effectively assess their impact on bushing and transformer insulation.


Customized monitoring solution

The complete MONTRANO monitoring system includes a set of bushing tap adapters, UHF sensor, data acquisition units, a central computer and monitoring software. The system's modular design allows it to be easily customized and expanded to match specific  monitoring requirements. With the convenient web interface, users can view data at any time to determine the actual state of insulation. The interface also enables users to schedule monitoring, set alarm and warning thresholds and check system status. OMICRON  also provides  onsite consultations to evaluate monitoring needs; system installation, setup and training; as well as data evaluation support.

Company profile

OMICRON is an international company serving the electrical power industry with innovative testing and diagnostic solutions. The application of OMICRON products allows users to assess the condition of the primary and secondary equipment on their systems with complete confidence. Services offered in the area of consulting, commissioning, testing, diagnosis and training make the product range complete.

Customers in more than 140 countries rely on the company’s ability to supply leading edge technology of excellent quality. Service centers on all continents provide a broad base of knowledge and extraordinary customer support. All of this together with our strong network of sales partners is what has made our company a market leader in the electrical power industry.