The significance of transformer oil in insulation and heat dissipation cannot be overstated. Thus, it is critical to ensure the right amount of oil in the tank to keep the transformer working effectively. To track the level of oil in the conservator of the transformer from outside the oil tank, operators can use a Magnetic Oil Level Gauge.
A Magnetic Oil Level Gauge may not function properly if it is not installed correctly and is subject to mechanical failures or oil leaks. Understanding the common malfunctions associated with the device can help the maintenance team determine the cause of such issues and take the necessary steps to solve them.
What Is the Magnetic Oil Level Gauge?
The Magnetic Oil Level Gauge can be defined as a device that indicates the level of oil inside an oil-filled transformer. It is typically placed on its conservator and operates via a float type of mechanism that reports the changes in the level of oil inside the device.
The internal float moves because of the variations of the oil level. By means of a magnetic element, the float movement is transferred to an external pointer, which shows the oil level.
The main advantage of this device is that it allows performing transformer monitoring externally, making the process simple.
Frequent Problems of Magnetic Oil Level Gauges
A Magnetic Oil Level Gauge can malfunction in different ways depending on the operation conditions, installation technology, and maintenance practice. Some common issues are given below.
1. Pointer Not Moving
One very serious issue is when the Magnetic Oil Level Gauge needle is immobile while the oil level is changing.
In this case, it is possible to say that either the internal float is stuck or the devices are out of order. However, before concluding that the gauge is malfunctioning, the maintenance department must make sure that the oil level has changed.
If the oil level has changed but the needle is still in the same position, the Magnetic Oil Level Gauge must be serviced in accordance with the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
2. Wrong or The Strange Oil Level Reading
Occasionally, the Metering Gauge for Oil may arrive with something that the operator does not expect.
In any case, it must be remembered that oil within the transformer behaves in such a manner that the oil is expanding and shrinking due to temperature changes. For this reason, some changes in oil level can be observed.
If this reading seems too abnormal one should check the installation, float mechanism, state of the gauge and functioning of the transformer as well as operating conditions. Choosing the right Magnetic Oil Level Gauge for the transformer and commoditization shall be vital to achieve good results in oil measurement.
3. Abrupt Decline in Oil Level Reading
The reading of Metering Gauge showing a significant decline shall not be interpreted as a gauge malfunction at once.
Rather, it gives the signal of the drop in oil due to possible leakage, altering of operational conditions or any other problem related to the transformer.
The maintenance team must check the state of the transformer in order to establish whether the decline is genuine or more assurance is required.
4. Oil Leak at the Gauge Area
Oil leak from the installation area of the Magnetic Oil Level Gauge could signal an issue in the connection, seal, or setup.
During routine inspection of transformers, the technicians should watch out for visible oil leaks at the gauge.
Proper installation and good sealing are key in stopping oil leaks and providing reliable operation. Any leak should be fixed after its cause is identified.
5. Alarm Function Not Going Off
Some Magnetic Oil Level Gauges can have switching devices for oil-level alarms.
In case the visual indicator works properly but there are no signals from the alarm, there might be an indication of malfunction in the switching mechanism, wiring, or the external alarm circuitry.
Alarm function requires regular verification pursuant to the guidelines from the manufacturer. It allows filling personnel to receive warning messages when oil levels reach a certain threshold.
6. The Dial is Hard to Read
It is important to ensure perfect visibility because a Magnetic Oil Level Gauges is supposed to clearly show the level of oil.
Dirt, damage, wear and tear or other environmental factors may prevent the dial from being read easily. In regular checks the dial should be examined for cleanliness and visible damage.
If the gauge face is damaged or the level cannot be measured in a proper way, repair or replacement may be necessary.
How to Fix a Problem with a Magnetic Oil Level Gauge
In case a Magnetic Oil Level Gauge shows a strange reading, it is possible to find the cause with a systematic check.
Step 1: Check the oil level
Figure out if you need to be worried about any oil level changes.
Step 2: Check for leaks
Find leaks in the mounting area of the gauge, connections and other equipment nearby.
Step 3: Observe the motion of the pointer
Check whether the pointer reacts as it should to the changes in oil level.
Step 4: Check the installation
Make sure the gauge is installed properly and is compatible with the conservator arrangement.
Step 5: Verify alarm functionality
If the gauge includes an alarm device, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guide to check whether it functions properly.
Step 6: Examine gauge condition
Look for damage, visibility, mechanical defects, or anything that seems unusual.
Step 7: Change if necessary
If the gauge is not functioning well, replace it with a properly fitting one according to the specifications of the transformer.
Choosing the Right Magnetic Oil Level Gauge
It is vital to pick a proper Magnetic Oil level gauge for the placement of a new item or replacement of an existing unit.
There are some factors that should receive attention before buying:
Configuration of transformer and conservator
Mounting type
Size of the dial
Range of readings
Need for alarms or switches
Dimensions of installation
Type of operational conditions
Technical specifications of the manufacturer
Compatibility with the transformer
Dhruti Sales proposes different models of MOG - from SO-4 and SO-4 ATMS to SO-10 and SO-10 ATMS. Thanks to this lineup, customers will be able to find a proper Magnetic Oil Level Gauge according to the needs they have in relation to the transformer.
When it comes to applications that require clear visual observation, it is important to consider the size of the dial. For instance, the MOG SO-10 is designed to accommodate a 250 mm dial.
Why Regular Maintenance is Important
Regular maintenance will ensure that a Magnetic Oil Level Gauge continues to work efficiently in the detection of oil level.
Regular inspections must be undertaken to make sure that the position of the pointer is adequately observed, the visibility of the dial is good, and any occurrence of oil leaks and alarm functioning validated during the normal functioning of a transformer.
In case of unusual indications, it is important to never overlook the issue. There could be an issue with the gauge itself, or, the level of oil in the transformer most likely has changed. It is advisable to investigate the situation to enable the maintenance team to act before the condition gets worse.
Selecting the Best Magnetic Oil Level Gauge for Your Transformer
Choosing a dependable oil-level measuring device is a vital element of transformer monitoring. A Magnetic Oil Level Gauge that is selected and maintained correctly provides the opportunity to continuously monitor within a given system.
When picking out a Magnetic Oil Level Gauge, take into consideration the specifications of the transformer, its conservator arrangement, the mounting needs, and its required dial size and alarm functions, rather than picking a model solely on price or looks.
Dhruti Sales has a large selection of magnetic oil level gauges that fit different transformers. Please check out our product range and choose an Oil Level Gauge according to your needs.
Are you in need of a Magnetic Oil Level Gauge for your transformer? Contact the Dhruti Sales team to discuss your transformers or check out our product range!
