Dust Prevention Measures for Oil-Immersed Transformers in Sandy and Dusty Areas

Sandy and dusty environments bring risks such as surface contamination, radiator clogging, insulation creepage and component wear to oil-immersed transformers. Targeted structural optimization, daily maintenance and technical protection measures are required to ensure long-term stable operation.

1. Optimize Equipment Selection & Structural Protection

Choose transformers with enhanced dustproof enclosure as priority. Equip air inlets, outlets and breathing devices with high-efficiency dust filters and anti-sand screens to block sand and dust from entering the tank. Install fully enclosed protective covers for bushings, terminal boxes and control components to prevent dust accumulation on insulating surfaces and avoid flashover faults. For outdoor units, adopt sealed oil conservators and rubber-bag type oil storage structures to stop dust from mixing into insulating oil through the breather.

2. Site Layout & Civil Protection

Set up windbreak walls, dust barriers or green belts around the transformer foundation to reduce direct impact of sandstorms. Elevate the equipment base properly to prevent ground dust from being blown onto the transformer body. Keep the surrounding area clean and flat, and regularly remove floating dust and loose soil to cut off dust sources. Avoid placing transformers in low-lying areas where dust is easy to gather.

3. Radiator & Heat Dissipation System Protection

Radiators are prone to dust clogging which will deteriorate heat dissipation. Install detachable anti-dust nets outside radiators and cooling fans. Select forced air cooling systems with dustproof fan blades. Arrange regular cleaning schedules to remove accumulated sand and dust between cooling fins, ensuring unobstructed air circulation and normal heat exchange.

4. Regular Inspection & Cleaning Maintenance

Carry out intensified daily patrols to check dust accumulation on tank surface, bushings, radiators and accessories. Use dry compressed air for blowing cleaning, or soft dry cloth for wiping; never use water flushing to prevent moisture from invading insulation and oil. Focus on inspecting and replacing filter cotton and silica gel in breathers on a short cycle, so as to guarantee the breathing system works normally. Check sealing gaskets, valves and welds frequently, and repair any gaps in time to prevent dust ingress.

5. Oil Quality & Internal Protection

Dust entering the oil tank will accelerate oil aging and wear internal components. Strengthen oil sampling and testing frequency. Once impurities are detected, conduct oil filtration or oil replacement immediately. Keep all manholes, handholes and flange joints tightly sealed at all times. During oil filling, maintenance and part replacement, implement strict dust-proof operation to avoid external sand and dust falling into the transformer.

6. Emergency Protection During Sandstorms

Before sandstorm weather, conduct a full inspection of all sealing parts and dustproof facilities. Shut down unnecessary ventilation openings temporarily. After sandstorms, organize comprehensive cleaning and inspection as soon as possible to eliminate hidden dangers caused by heavy dust deposition.

References

APA 7th Edition

[1] Wang, Y., & Liu, P. (2023). Operation and protection strategies for power equipment in sandy and dusty areas. Power System Protection and Control, 51(8), 102-108.

MLA 9th Edition

[1] Wang, Yu, and Peng Liu. "Operation and Protection Strategies for Power Equipment in Sandy and Dusty Areas." Power System Protection and Control, vol. 51, no. 8, 2023, pp. 102-108.

IEEE Style

[1] Y. Wang and P. Liu, "Operation and protection strategies for power equipment in sandy and dusty areas," Power Syst. Prot. Control, vol. 51, no. 8, pp. 102-108, 2023.