Checklist to Reduce Bushing Testing Issues

Electro Composites™ and PCORE® bushings are routinely tested in the factory and the power factor results are put on bushing nameplates. It is not uncommon to see the power factor test results in the field are slightly different from the nameplate values. This is mainly caused by the differences in the test sets and the testing environment. However, a significant difference may indicate some testing issues in the field. The users may see significantly higher or lower values of either C1 or C2 power factors than the bushing nameplate values. Below are the checklists we recommend for the users to eliminate testing issues:

1. ALWAYS BE SURE

• The test set works fine
• The test set-up is correct
• All groundings are proper
• There are no sharp wire strands sticking up in the energized test circuit that could cause corona
• Not to test a bushing in the crate
• Do not use a sling or rope around bushing insulation during the tests

• If the bushing under test is H1, and the test is performed with the bushing in the transformer,
• Connect all HV bushings (H1, H2, H3) together to the voltage source of the test set
• If neutral H0 exists, unground H0 and connect it to H1 as well as H2 and H3
• Connect all LV bushings (X1, X2, X3, and X0 if exists) together to the ground
• All voltage/test tap covers should be closed except for H1
• H1 bushing flange must be directly grounded through the “guard” or ground lead. Remove painting or rust at connecting point on the flange if necessary
• Make sure the transformer oil is clean
• Clean & dry the bushing insulation surface

• Make sure the transformer oil is clean, if tested in transformer
• Clean & dry the bushing insulation surface

The following points (4 and 5) for C2 tests are applicable ONLY to the bushings rated 115 kV and above which are equipped with voltage taps per IEEE standard. Electro Composites SDC bushings rated 115kV and above are supplied with capacitance taps, not voltage taps, and therefore points 4 and 5 do not apply.

• If the bushing is tested in the transformer, try to isolate the bushing flange from transformer tank
• Make sure the transformer oil is clean, if tested in transformer
• Clean & dry the bushing voltage tap area
• Clean & dry the bushing porcelain surface

• Clean & dry the bushing porcelain surface
• Make sure the transformer oil is clean