Course catalog

Sweep frequency response is a major advance in transformer condition analysis, allowing visualization of the inside of a transformer’s tank without costly de-tanking. This is done by performing a simple measurement looking at how well a transformer winding transmits a low voltage signal that varies in frequency. Just how well a transformer does this is related to its impedance, the capacitive and inductive elements that are intimately related to the physical construction of the transformer. Changes in frequency response as measured by SFRA techniques may indicate a physical change that has occurred inside the transformer, and thus a change to the transformer’s impedance. The cause of the impedance change then needs to be identified and investigated.

The detection of certain gases generated in an oil-filled transformer in service can be an indication of a malfunction that may eventually lead to failure if not corrected. In a transformer, generated gases can be found dissolved in the insulating oil, in the gas blanket above the oil, or in gas collecting devices. The presence of gas and its quantity are dependent on equipment variables such as: type, location, and temperature of the fault; solubility and degree of saturation of various gases in oil; the kinds of material in contact with the fault; and finally, variables associated with the sampling and measuring procedures themselves. The two principle causes of gas formation within an operating transformer are thermal and electrical disturbances. Gases are also produced from the decomposition of oil and insulation exposed to elevated temperatures.

Insulating oils are used in power transformers to provide cooling, insulation and protection against corona and arcing. Transformer oils are exposed to mechanical and electrical stress as well as chemical contaminations during the operation of the transformer. These lead the original properties of the transformer oil to change, which can reduce the functionality of the oil. In order to maintain and extend the life of the transformer, regular testing of the transformer oil is required. Multiple tests are used to assess transformer oil.

Most electrical equipment failures are the result of insulation deterioration. Power factor testing is the most effective and common way to detect insufficient electrical equipment insulation. This test enables technicians to detect equipment insulation problems without making an internal visual inspection. Technicians that can properly perform and evaluate the results of power factor tests can predict and prevent the failure of medium and high voltage transformers, circuit breakers, bushings, reclosers, switches, cables, lightning arrestors, liquid insulation, potheads, rotating machinery and voltage regulators. The intention of this training session is to guide the operator in the appropriate method of making capacitance, dissipation factor/power factor measurements on power apparatus and to assist in the interpretation of test results obtained. This training module is intended for new or experienced electricians and technicians that install, maintain, repair or troubleshoot electrical equipment.

Resistance Grounding Systems are used in industrial electrical power distribution facilities to limit phase-to-ground fault currents. This training module is intended for new or experienced electricians and technicians that install, maintain, repair or troubleshoot power and auxiliary systems.

Three-phase Induction motors draw six or more times rated current when started at rated voltage. Such high currents may pose serious problems for the motor and the electrical system when large motors are started. One way to reduce the starting current is to start the motor at reduced voltage. After looking at some of the considerations for full-voltage starting, we will consider several different methods of reduced-voltage starting. This training module is ideal for new or experienced electricians and technicians that install, maintain, repair, or troubleshoot rotating machines.

Medium voltage cable systems are the backbone of electrical systems worldwide, yet often they are the most ignored part of the power system … that is until there is a failure. Cable systems today have higher failure rates than ever before due to aging, environmental stresses and improper installation. An effective cable testing program can help reliability managers in prioritizing cable replacement or repair prior to failure. This helps prevent unplanned outages, equipment damage and electrical accidents and ultimately reducing costs.  This training series is intended for engineers, electrical technicians, and supervisors that test, install, maintain, repair or troubleshoot 5-69 kV solid dielectric cables.

In this training session, we will go over the 6 different layers of a medium voltage cable. We will explore each component in detail including each components’ purpose starting with the conductor and working outward to the cable jacket. We will also go over the multiple conductor types and conductor selection parameters that are considered, insulation types and design purposes, and various types of metallic shields typically seen in the field. This training module is intended for new or experienced electricians and technicians that install, maintain, repair or troubleshoot 5-35 kV solid dielectric power cables.

The primary function of the electric power distribution system in a building or facility is to receive power at one or more supply points and to deliver it to lighting, elevators, chillers, motors and all other electrical loads. The selection of a system arrangement has a profound impact upon the reliability and maintainability of the electrical system. Four basic circuit arrangements are used for the distribution of electric power. They are the radial, primary selective, secondary selective, and secondary network circuit arrangements. Several commonly-used electrical distribution systems are discussed in this training session. It is usually necessary to combine two or more of these arrangements for increased system reliability.

Motor-driven equipment accounts for 64% of the electricity consumed in the U.S. industrial and commercial sectors. All industrial or commercial operations have some type of motor in their facilities, whether it’s used to drive fans, pumps, compressors, saws, crushers or conveyors. Regardless of their purpose, though, all motors are prone to failure if not properly sized, installed and maintained. Even the best motors will fail prematurely if they’re installed in applications or conditions they’re not rated for, or if preventative maintenance guidelines are not followed. This training module is ideal for new or experienced electricians and technicians that install, maintain, repair, or troubleshoot rotating machines.

In this training session, we will explore DC motors. This training module is ideal for both new and experienced electricians and technicians who install, maintain, repair, or troubleshoot rotating machines.

This training module will introduce students to stationary batteries and the maintenance and testing they require. The student will learn to identify various types of batteries, their construction and applications. The student will define safety and hazards related to batteries and testing. We will look at various failure modes related to batteries and how to identify each failure. Tests and inspection procedures will be explained along with the interpretation of test results. This training module is designed for industrial professionals working on battery systems in substations, power plants, data centers and in other systems that require emergency and standby DC power.