OMICRON, an electrical energy systems testing, diagnosis and monitoring solutions provider, has introduce its new VOTANO 100, which the firm said combined mobility with ?the highest level of accuracy in a single system for the first time?
Voltage transformers can be found in many locations within energy supply networks. Their duties include protecting supply networks and accurately recording primary voltage levels for power determination. In order to perform these duties correctly, however, they require regular tests and calibration based on operator directives or national regulations.
Up until now, precise testing of the transformation ratio accuracy of voltage transformers was a major undertaking.
Highly accurate measurement solutions are complex systems, made up of various devices that are calibrated and extremely accurate. This includes a high-voltage source, a reference transformer, a set of standard burdens, measuring bridges for comparative purposes, and a computer to evaluate all of the measured data. Transporting all of this equipment to the testing location can often be very awkward, while the time and costs involved are immense.
Smaller testing solutions typically lack the necessary accuracy or are incapable of taking all of the different burdens into account. Therefore, the only viable alternative is often to remove the voltage transformer and send it to a testing institute for accurate calibration. This is also, however, time- and cost-intensive.
Precise mobile testing
VOTANO 100 combines mobility and accuracy, thereby reducing testing efforts to a minimum. The basis for this successful combination is the examination of the voltage transformer as an electrical model that is captured and then mathematically simulated by VOTANO 100. This model was developed on the basis of the successful CT Analyzer.
Safe and lightweight package
The VBO1 voltage booster comes with VOTANO 100. It supplies the primary side of the transformer with a maximum reference voltage of 4kV for the transformation ratio measurement. The VBO1 is positioned near the test object, while the test engineer operates VOTANO 100 in a secure area outside of the high-voltage environment. The compact dimensions guarantee easy and convenient transport. The combined total weight of both devices is less than 15kg (33lbs).
In a single pass, winding resistance, short-circuit impedances, transformation ratio, and the magnetic characteristics curve of inductive and capacitive voltage transformers are determined. During this process, VOTANO 100 assesses voltage transformers with up to five secondary windings ? both for no-load and standard load operating conditions.
Ultimate accuracy
The measurement method offers an impressive degree of accuracy. Indeed, VOTANO 100 achieves a measurement tolerance of 0.05 per cent. This allows voltage transformers with class 0.1 accuracy to be precisely calibrated on site with regard to their transformation ratio and phase error.
With VOTANO 100, OMICRON has unveiled a unique development: a high-precision mobile voltage transformer testing system that is easy to use right where it is needed ? in the field.
Fast facts:
- High measurement accuracy: class 0.1 transformers
- Guided testing procedure: duration < 20minutes
- Small and lightweight: total weight < 15kg
- Maximum safety: testing outside the high-voltage environment
- Automatic assessment to international standards
