Data management model for the optimized maintenance of power transformers

The present of the electricity distribution, influenced by a number of technical restrictions and strict regulatory requirements to meet, leads distribution utilities to search new ways of optimizing the maintenance management, developing more effective activities, with lower costs. For distribution systems, power transformers represent a complex and critical physical asset that requires a careful evaluation of their maintenance practices aiming at more cost-effective tasks. This paper presents a data management model developed by Edenor, the largest argentine distribution utility, to optimize the maintenance of power transformers. To do so, key determinations were established to evaluate the condition of the units, obtaining health indices of the fleet to prioritize, if required, the execution of major maintenance actions. Such model is strongly supported by the expert knowledge of specialists on this matter as well as the development of highly qualified manpower. Through the development of this model, positive results were reached as regard the optimization of the maintenance management, availability and reliability of the transformer fleet and reduction of costs.