HM16: Transformer solutions for maximum network stability

We work with great dedication to create innovative, end-to-end technological solutions that ensure a safe, sustainable global energy supply – a supply that is essential for both the success of industrial companies and the rising standard of living for a growing world population.

Stable networks are the crucial element, enabling power generators and network operators to avoid electricity outages as much as possible, and to respond swiftly to emergency situations. Transformer safety and protection play a key role in this regard. At Hannover Messe 2016, we’re presenting a number of solutions that are optimally suited to meet these needs.

Catastrophic electricity outages around the globe – as happened in 2012 following Hurricane Sandy, which temporarily cut power to part of Manhattan – have focused attention in recent years on the ageing network infrastructure and the topic of resilience, especially where transformers are concerned. Besides preventive measures, there is a need for protection against all kinds of risks for networks and transformers. There is a particular need for solutions that will help recover the power supply as swiftly as possible following an outage.

Packages of measures for prevention and protection

As a partner to the energy industry for decades, we have worked with prominent customers to develop products and services for power network and transformer operators that satisfy all of these requirements. Thus, for example, we offer comprehensive services for aged transformers that are still in service to prevent operational risks. These services range from condition monitoring to maintenance, repair and retrofitting. A long-term service strategy ensures that the transformer fleet remains reliable and functions efficiently at all times.

To protect against physical impacts, our experts have developed a special shield made of bullet-resistant material, both for new transformers and for retrofitting on existing units. Non-magnetic steel inserts protect against excessive heat caused by geomagnetically induced currents (GIC) as a consequence of solar storms. Alternative insulating fluids such as esters reduce the risk of explosion and fire.

Mobile resilience transformers for emergency situations

What if a power failure still happens, despite all the precautions? Working together with US utilities, our experts have developed special, very light, compact and thus mobile resilience transformers with plug-and-play bushings and conncetions that are both versatile and quick to install on-site. These substantially reduce both the duration and the cost of outages. We also contribute toward ensuring a stable power supply in other regards. A current example: to provide a secure electricity supply to parts of Manhattan even during flooding following a storm, Con Edison uses intelligent distribution network automation technology that it developed in collaboration with Siemens.

The global launch of the Siemens Resilience concept “PretactTM” will take place during Hannover Messe 2016. This new strategy addresses emergency situations, retrofitting or expansion work, and new installations along the entire energy value-added chain to enhance network stability, using modular features and a solution architecture for both power and distribution transformers.

Visit our booth in Hall 9 at Hannover Messe 2016 and find out how our products and solutions help make power networks stable and ensure a guaranteed, reliable power supply.