Flame Detection at Transformer Stations

Transformer stations use a variety of equipment and systems, and each presents its own set of fire risks. Fires may involve DC valves, outdoor or indoor oil-insulated equipment, oil-insulated cables, hydrogen cooled synchronous condensers or PCB insulation. The oil used in oil-insulated equipment may ignite due to electrical malfunction. Internal arcing may occur within the oil due to infiltration of water, failure of core insulation, exterior fault currents or tap-changer failures. Flame detectors must detect flames quickly to prevent a widespread fire within a transformer station. This is crucial, as fires in transformer stations can have a severe impact on power supply to customers and can affect a utility company’s assets and revenue. But more importantly, the fires can also be hazardous to personnel and the general public. The Rosemount™ 975HR Flame Detector can quickly detect fires at long distances with a high immunity to false alarms.