rigonda 102 power transformer, which is often confused with others, and the practical nuances of its use 

When you hear “rigonda 102 power transformer,” the first thing that comes to mind for many is just another power transformer. But in practice, especially when faced with the modernization of old substations or the search for replacements, it turns out that this is not entirely true. A common mistake is to consider it a complete analogue of the more common TMG or TSZ. Structurally, especially the active part, has its own specifics, and if this is not taken into account when ordering spare parts or planning a repair window, you can get an unpleasant surprise in the form of inconsistencies in dimensions or fastenings.

Design features that are only visible in operation

Main featurerigonda 102 power transformer, if we take specifically power transformers under this marking, this is the layout. It was often tailored to specific, sometimes rather cramped, installation conditions in existing substation buildings. I myself came across a situation where, when replacing an old device with a new, more powerful, but standard series, it did not fit in height or did not fit on the channel. But “Rigonda” fit like a glove, because it was initially designed taking into account such restrictions.

The second point is the cooling system. Combination options (DC) are often found here. In theory, everything is smooth, but in practice, especially after long-term operation, fans can create vibration, which is transmitted to the structure. It is necessary to do additional checks of fastenings and balancing, which, it would seem, should not be necessary to do on a new transformer. This is not a critical flaw, just a feature that is worth keeping in mind during routine maintenance.

As for insulation, it depends on the year of manufacture. Earlier specimens may have had their own “diseases” associated with the materials of that time. Therefore, when diagnosing, especially if the transformer has been in operation for 15-20 years, we always look with special attention at the results of chromatographic gas analysis (CAG) and tan delta tests. It happened that in terms of electrical parameters everything was normal, but in terms of gases, carbon monoxide was already beginning to increase, which hinted at the aging of the cellulose.

Practical cases and common problems during operation

One of the most significant cases from my practice is connected precisely with the selection of an analogue forpower transformerRigonda 102 at one of the facilities in the Leningrad region. The customer wanted to save money and supply not an original or similar design device, but one that was cheaper and available at that time. Everything seemed to agree according to the passport data: power, voltage, group of winding connections.

But during installation a problem with the inputs emerged. The old transformer had them at a specific angle, while the new one had them at a standard angle. I had to redo the busbar jumper on the MV side, which entailed additional calculations for electrodynamic resistance, new fastenings, and unnecessary work. The savings ultimately turned out to be illusory. Moral: with devices that were initially designed for non-standard solutions, you always need to look deeper than the data.

Another common headache is the availability of spare parts. Fans, oil pumps, oil level indicators, even gaskets are not always unified. Sometimes it is easier and faster to order a kit through specialized suppliers who understand the specifics. For example, we have repeatedly worked with the companyWenzhou Qiaonasen Electrical Equipment Co.,Ltd. They specialize in solutions for power transmission and distribution and can often quickly select or even manufacture the required unit for a specific standard size, which is critical for repairing old equipment. Their website (https://www.www.qnasen.ru) is worth bookmarking - there is a useful catalog and contacts for technical consultations.

It is impossible not to mention problems with the on-load tap-changer (load regulation) system, if one is present. Mechanics can stick after long periods of inactivity in one position. Regular maintenance with loading is required, which is often forgotten in maintenance schedules.

Condition assessment and service life extension

When it comes to extending the life of such a transformer, the first thing we start with is oil. An absolutely standard procedure, but there is a nuance here. Due to the design features of the tank, complete draining and replacement are sometimes problematic. More often we go along the path of regenerating oil on site or vacuuming it with fresh replenishment. This is cheaper and more effective if the degree of oil degradation has not yet gone too far.

The second key point is the diagnosis of winding insulation. A megohmmeter is good, but for older equipment a polarization index (PI) and capacitive absorption (DAR) test is required. They show moisture better. I remember a case when the insulation resistance was within normal limits (more than 1000 MOhm), and PI was below 1.5, which indicated serious moisture. Drying with short circuit currents saved me, but this is a week-long procedure with constant monitoring.

The third point is to check all bolted connections, especially on live parts and the grounding system. Vibration does its job over time. Simply pulling all available connections while the device is disconnected and grounded can prevent future heating and accident.

Thoughts on modernization and replacement

Is it worth changing the old one?rigonda 102 power transformerfor a new transformer? The question is ambiguous. If the device is in good condition, has passed a set of diagnostics and its parameters are suitable for the load, then a major overhaul with an oil change and, possibly, repair of the on-load tap changer may be more economically profitable. A new transformer is not only about its cost, it often also means work to change the foundation, supply busbars, and relay protection.

However, if there is a constant increase in gases in the oil, a decrease in the dielectric strength of the insulation, or the load requirements have increased, then replacement is inevitable. When choosing a new device, I would advise you to pay attention not only to the price, but also to the maintainability and availability of components in the future. Unification is a great thing.

And here we return again to suppliers who work with a full cycle. SameWenzhou Qiaonasen Electrical Equipment Co.,Ltd, as a specialist in the field of power equipment, can offer not just a transformer, but a comprehensive solution: from auditing existing equipment and developing technical specifications to delivery, installation and commissioning. This is especially valuable when you need not just a “box”, but a guarantee that it will fit into the existing infrastructure and will work. Their approach, judging by the experience of their colleagues, is based on the specific tasks of the customer, and not on a standard catalogue.

Final considerations for the practitioner

Overall, the Rigonda 102 power transformer is a typical representative of its time: reliable, but with its own character. You can and should work with it, but only if you have a deep understanding of its structure and operating history. A blind replacement with the first analogue that comes across is a path to additional costs.

The main advice is not to neglect a full diagnosis before deciding to repair or replace. Data on CAG, electrical tests, inspection of the active part (if possible) will give a much clearer picture than just the age of the device.

And, of course, it is important to have reliable partners in the supply of both the equipment itself and spare parts forrigonda 102 power transformer. In conditions where the original manufacturer may no longer exist, it is specialized companies that understand the specifics of the old fleet that become a key link in maintaining its performance. Competent selection, even not original, but correctly designed components, allows you to keep the facility in operation without unnecessary risks and downtime.