Real-time Temperature Monitoring System Using FBG Sensors on an Oil-immersed Power Transformer

Abstract

Over-heating issues will affect the safe operation and life-time of an oil-immersed transformer; therefore, it is necessary to monitor the temperature of the windings and oil during a transformer's operation. Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) temperature sensors are installed to measure the temperature of windings, cores, and busbars, as well as oil temperature at the top and bottom. An online-monitoring system is used to collect and analyze temperature data over time. Analysis shows that, by using the fiber optic Bragg grating temperature sensors, the internal temperature of an oil-immersed trans- former is accurately monitored in real-time. Additionally, the result can be used as good evidence to evaluate the service life and operational state of a transformer.