The power transformer is the heart of any electrical distribution network, and the tank is its first line of defence. It protects the sensitive core and windings from moisture, dust, and physical damage while also serving as a reservoir for the cooling oil. However, like any industrial asset, transformer tanks deteriorate over time. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to catastrophic failures, costly downtime, and environmental hazards.
Identifying issues early extends the lifespan of your asset and ensures safety. Here are the top five signs that your power transformer tank requires immediate attention.
1.Oil Leaks and Seepage
The most obvious indicator of a problem is an oil leak. Leaks often start small—a damp patch around a gasket, a valve, or a weld seam. While it might seem minor, even a slow leak can lower the oil level enough to cause overheating. Furthermore, if oil can get out, moisture and air can get in, degrading the insulation properties of the remaining oil. Check the base of the tank and cooling fins regularly for shiny or dark patches of oil.
2.Visible Corrosion and Rust
Transformer tanks are exposed to the elements 24/7. Over time, UV radiation, rain, and humidity attack the paint work. Once the protective coating is breached, rust sets in. Surface rust is common, but pitting corrosion is dangerous as it eats into the metal thickness, weakening the structural integrity of the tank. If you see bubbling paint or deep rust spots, it’s time for maintenance before the wall is breached.
3.Bulging or Deformation
A transformer tank should have straight, uniform walls. If you notice any bulging or deformation, it indicates a serious internal pressure issue. This could be caused by a fault inside the transformer generating excessive gas or a failure of the pressure relief devices. This is a critical sign that requires immediate professional assessment to prevent a potential explosion or rupture
4.Deteriorated Gaskets and Seals
Rubber and cork gaskets eventually dry out, crack, and lose their elasticity due to temperature fluctuations and chemical reactions with the oil. Leading power transformer tank manufacturers design tanks with high-quality seals, but even the best materials have a lifespan. If gaskets look brittle or are squeezing out from the joints, they need replacing to maintain a hermetic seal.
5.Overheating and Discoloration
Thermal imaging is a great maintenance tool, but sometimes you can see overheating with the naked eye. Discoloured paint or peeling in specific areas can indicate hot spots inside the tank. This suggests that the cooling system is inefficient or that there is an internal electrical fault generating excess heat.
Trust Shrao Engineering For Quality Solutions
When maintenance is no longer enough and replacement becomes necessary, choosing the right partner is crucial. As one of the industry’s trusted power transformer tank suppliers, Shrao Engineering understands the critical nature of these components.
We specialize in manufacturing high-durability transformer tanks designed to withstand harsh environments and rigorous operational demands. Our tanks are fabricated with precision welding and superior surface treatments to resist corrosion and leaks, ensuring your power infrastructure remains robust and reliable for years to come.
Don’t wait for a leak to become a failure.
If your transformer tank is showing signs of age or if you need a high-quality replacement, contact Shrao Engineering today. Let us help you secure your power supply with precision engineering.
