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Megger reveals hidden transformer faults

Story

One of the smallest and most rugged instrument of its type, Megger’s new FRAX 150 sweep frequency response analyzer (SFRA) is a powerful tool for revealing potential electrical and mechanical problems in power transformers, many of which are difficult or impossible to detect using other methods.

• Light weight
• Easy to use
• Easy to carry
• All in one box solution

Built-in computer

The instrument is completely self-contained, with an integral PC that has a high-resolution colour screen featuring a powerful backlight that makes it easy to read even in direct sunlight. It also has an internal rechargeable battery, allowing it to be used in locations where no mains supply is available.

Reveals wide range of transformer faults

Meeting all international standards for SFRA measurements, this innovative instrument offers a larger dynamic range and better accuracy than any other comparable test set currently available. In addition, for the test connections to the transformer, it makes use of special cabling technology that ensures repeatability of results.

The FRAX 150 operates by applying a sweep frequency test signal to the transformer and monitoring its response. The result is a unique fingerprint which, when compared with a reference fingerprint for the same transformer, reveals a wide range of faults. These include winding deformations and displacements, shorted and open windings, loose and broken clamping structures, core connection problems, core movement and hoop buckling.

Highest dynamic range and accuracy

Megger’s FRAX 150 incorporates powerful analysis and decision support software. In addition to offering the traditional magnitude versus frequency/phase display, this software also allows users to present data in an impedance or admittance versus frequency view, which is a powerful analytical tool for many types of transformer.

The test frequency range covered by the FRAX 150 is 0.1 Hz to 25 MHz, and users can set the range employed for individual tests to match the needs of the application. By default, the number of test points used for each frequency sweep is 1,046, but users can choose to extend this up to a maximum of 32,000. Typical measurement time is 64 seconds, but a fast mode is available that is capable of delivering results in just 37 seconds.

Ready to go

Small and easy to carry, with an operating temperature range of -20°C to +50°C, the Megger FRAX 150 sweep frequency response analyzer is ideal for use in the field. It is supplied complete with ground cable, four 3 m braid sets, two C clamps, an 18 m generator cable, an 18 m test cable, user manual and Windows software.

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