The factors that determine the successful operation of a transformer are good design and proper installation. The manufacturers’ guide that comes with a transformer thoroughly describes the installation and testing procedure. it is crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure safety to the personnel and equipment. Besides this, it is also important for you to carry out the NEC practice and applicable local codes.
Requirements for acceptance testing
Prior to the shipment of your transformer to its decided place, you must contact the manufacturer to know about what acceptance tests should be followed. Each test comes with a specific objective that determines a transformer’s applicability for different uses.
Considering the installation site
Before gearing up for the installation process, choosing a proper location that fulfills all the safety codes without affecting the normal movement of personnel, equipment and material is very important. While selecting the location you must keep in mind that the transformer should not be exposed to any kind of damage from trucks, cranes or moving equipment.
Inspection after receiving the transformer
Once you receive the transformer you must inspect it thoroughly to find if there is any kind of damage occurred during the shipment. This should be done before taking it out of the truck or car. this is because if any damage is seen then the claim should be made with the carrier at once and the manufacturer should also be informed about it. Another inspection should be made after removing its packaging to look for internal damage.
Handle with care
Transformers have some specific requirements when it comes to lifting or rolling which mainly depends on the weight, size and mechanical configuration of the unit. You must ensure that the rigging crew is well aware of these things and capable of handling it with care.
Making connections that work
It is important for you to carefully abide by the guidelines mentioned on the nameplate or on the connection diagram.
Maintaining sound level
When you examine the transformer for the sound level, you should be aware of the fact that all transformers when charged, produce noise.
Ensure that the transformer is grounded
Grounding is extremely important to eliminate the static charges that may accumulate. Besides this, it is also required to safeguard the transformer windings, so that it does not accidentally get in touch with the core or enclosure.
Final inspection and checking
After placing the transformer on its decided location, it should be examined thoroughly before assembling its parts.
Applying the load
Before charging up a 3 phase transformer, you must keep a watch on the voltages and currents on the low voltage side.