Deep Dive: Retrofitting Transformers For Remote Monitoring

May 18, 2022 | substations , transformers , Utilities
Grid Insights Banner - LTC Retrofit.psd

APPLICATION: Transmission / Distribution Substation Transformers

Transformer Load Tap Changer Monitoring

The Load Tap Changers (LTCs) inside transformers perform the critical task of allowing the output voltage to be adjusted up or down, depending upon the demand for power. The INCON® 1250-LTC Programmable Load Tap Changer (LTC) Position Monitor relays critical position information between a distribution transformer LTC and the LTC controller, enabling utilities to run their transformers as efficiently as possible.

Utilities armed with the position information of these LTCs are empowered with data to run their transformers as efficiently as possible.

Installing INCON® LTC Position Monitoring in an existing transformer is easy regardless of make, model, or setup.

Grid Insights - LTC Monitoring - Products.psd

How It Works

  1. The 5-wire Syncro Transmitter is mechanically coupled directly to the transformer’s LTC drive mechanism.

  2. Vital LTC position data is transmitted via AC signal to the LTC Position Monitor. The AC signal is 0-90 VAC and in-phase with the surrounding AC systems making it immune to noise.

  3. Inside the substation control room, the signal from the Synchro Transmitter is interpreted by the LTC Position Monitor as an angle, which is precisely converted to a tap position by firmware.

  4. The LTC position is fed to a central dispatch center via analog output signal through a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU).

  5. Signals from a network of LTC Position Monitors can be fed into a utility’s SCADA system, providing remote LTC position information for an entire network of transformers.
Grid Insights Banner - LTC Retrofit - System.psd
Grid Insights - LTC Monitoring - Flex Coupling.psd

Flexible Installation

Synchro Transmitters can be mechanically coupled to the LTC’s drive mechanism by straight coupling, gears, chain sprockets, or, for the most flexible installation, with INCON® Flexible Couplings.

The “Quick Connect” Flexible Coupling is designed for unique mounting and connecting applications. It makes retrofitting to older equipment easy with standard lengths and coupling diameters to fit most LTC applications.

Check out all of the installation options:

Grid Insights - LTC Retrofit Options - System.psd
Grid Insights - LTC Monitoring.psd

Load Tap Changer Position Monitors

INCON® Load Tap Changer (LTC) Position Monitors relay critical position information between the LTC and the LTC controller, enabling utilities to control their distribution transformers with precision accuracy. Utilities can also feed the LTC position to the central dispatch center through the SCADA system (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) to know the exact position for a network of many transformers.​​

 

Here's The Benefits:

LTC Icon Balance.psd

Balance Loads

Accurately and intelligently balance the loading of a network of transformers. 

LTC Icon Regulate.psd

Voltage Regulation

Regulate line voltage by adjusting feeder voltage.

LTC Icon Cost.psd

Reduce Costs

Reduce power costs by providing the minimum line voltage required.

LTC Icon Smart Maintenance.psd

Predictive Maintenance

Deploy predictive transformer maintenance with intelligence.

LEARN MORE ABOUT LTC POSITION MONITORING
< All News