It’s crucial to understand how electrical transformers function in order to stay safe and avoid future damage. If managed incorrectly, a transformer failure can result in a number of risks and potentially hazardous circumstances.
A transformer is what?
A power transformer is an electrical device found in the middle of a generator and its principal distribution circuits, that transfers electrical energy. It is frequently made to step up or down the voltage. Power transformers are fundamental components of power systems because they increase and decrease voltage levels as needed to improve the safety and effectiveness of these systems.
Power transformers do, however, come with some hazards, just like any other technology.
How do transformers function?
We must first comprehend how transformers function in order to grasp how they blow. Electricity providers typically transmit a high voltage current using overhead or underground lines to reduce losses during transmission.
Transformers are constructed at every distribution point to reduce the high high voltage current to a specific amount of volts, which is then transmitted using thinner electric wires because the high voltage current is too great for typical homes and businesses to absorb.
Transformer explosion causes
- Lightning
The most frequent reason for transformer failure is lightning. Each time there is a lightning storm, power companies have to confront a large number of transformers that have detonated. The rationale for this is that an abrupt increase in power could heat an insulating liquid over the point at which it ignites, leading to a fire, the evaporation of insulation, or setting it on fire. The insulator vapor includes methane, a highly flammable gas that you may see ignite due to the high temperature in the transformer, so these are difficulties that could arise for other reasons as well, as is customary.
- Unusual Weather
Transformers might potentially be harmed by extreme weather. The power grid has to work harder during severe weather. When the network’s actual capacity is surpassed or the grid is getting close to it, damage ensues. In actuality, cold weather increases energy consumption, yet the insulation remains in place due to the cold air. The mineral oil will already be melted and burned in hot weather, particularly in areas with high humidity, which has poor insulating properties and could be dangerous.
- Falling Trees
Trees that fall can harm the transformer as well. When a tree falls, this could collide with a powerline, which could lead to an overvoltage and harm the insulating oil inside. A tree may also strike the transformer directly, resulting in mechanical damage that may short circuit, overheat, or explode.
- mechanical breakdown
In addition to electrical problems, power transformer mechanical issues can result in burns and explosions. The conductor telescoping, tilting, or buckling might all result in mechanical failure. These mechanical failures can be readily avoided with routine maintenance and occur when your generators are not properly maintained.
In case a transformer blows, what do you do
Whenever a transformer blows, it can be a terrifying event. In addition to making a great deal of noise, they can also produce a lot of smoke and a fireball. If not handled properly, they can be risky, and until they are restored, your power service will be disrupted.
- Make sure to avoid the area if a transformer close to you has blown up, and ensure that you keep your pets and family members away as well. Any downed electricity wires and transformers might be quite dangerous.
- Once you have determined the site of the blown transformer, call your power provider immediately.
- Return to your home and use candles, flashlights, or backup power generators in seeing. Try to delay opening your refrigerators and freezers until the power is restored. It’s advisable to keep the contents of your fridge and freezer as chilly as you can until the electricity is restored because food can quickly defrost and rot.