Study of the Physical Nature of the Electric Arc in Power Oil-Filled Transformers

The conditions for the formation of an electric arc in transformers, as well as the physical processes of the formation of partial discharges, are insufficiently studied. There are certain reasons for this. Firstly, not all experts consider partial discharges a dangerous defect. Secondly, in some regulatory documents it is recommended to measure partial discharges once every eight years. Well-known Russian experts in the field of technical diagnostic power transformers are put partial discharges on the eighth place in ranking controlled parameters of the diagnostic value. At the same time, chromatographic analysis of dissolved gases comes first. Undoubtedly, the chromatographic control of combustible gases in oil allows one to obtain integral information about local overheating and the presence of partial discharges. But if we add to this the speed of development of the defect and the magnitude of the damage, then partial discharges must come first place.