transformer failure due to line surge

[leoliu]

I happend to find a paper said that almost 20% of transformer failure is due to Line surges. The number is really high. Anyboday has some comments on this? Thanks.

 

[wrong100]

leoliu

Having first seen your question on relibility.
I know why the question.

Ref to UL etc.

Discussion:
1) Insulation systems have a problem.
they get old and ware out.
When new they may withstand(for surges
10 times their rating , old may be at rating.
2) Each time they get hit they degrade a little (more) and faster.
3) Think of a system that if used within its design limits,
(the withstand voltage), will die in an exp mode,
with bumps for higher voltage.
4) Now think of a system that has a defined Vmax spec,
and temp spec.
a) Surge damage is a voltage, temp, time, thing. It should work untill losses "heat" the unit, too much, and it dies. Each hit makes spot heat, makes carbon,moves electrons, (hurts the insulation).
Insulation loss, or the voltage shorts the insulation (failure now other than later).


Mag componets have lasted 20 50 100 yrs.
The understanding and use of these components,
are critical in all aspects of our life.

It would intrest me to see low line verses high line
surge failure rates.

wrong100