Step Up Transformer online monitoring experience in Tucuruí Power Plant

The Step Up Transformers at the Tucuruí Hydroelectric Power Plant are very important for the National Interconnected System (SIN). Due to that, and due to the severe work conditions, Eletrobrás Eletronorte has always kept a rigorous preventive maintenance program for these equipments. However, transformer failure history in the first powerhouse (older ones) led to the implantation of the online monitoring system, in order to detect the defects when they start, and mitigate the risks even more. System installation started in 2006, with sensors and software. Four transformers which were already operating began to be monitored and implantation for three more was in progress, taking advantage of the modularity and expandability features of the decentralized architecture used. The Architecture and the solutions applied in system implantation, as well as the results obtained, will be described in this paper. Some of the goals successfully attained were easier insurance negotiation for some equipment and more safety for the personnel, the equipment and the facility.