Building a Transformer Monitoring System Using CompactRIO and LabVIEW Real-Time Module

　　challenge:

A transformer monitoring system ( TMS ) 　　is designed and developed to collect, process, analyze key parameters and communicate with the data center, thereby analyzing, processing and visually monitoring the widely distributed distribution transformers in the power network.

　　solution:

The data collection task of remote distribution transformers is realized 　　by using NI Labview software and CompactRIO platform, and using General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) communication interface . The graphical visual interface is provided by using Geographic Information System (GIS) and Web-based application.

　　Distribution transformers are an important part of the power distribution system. We decided to develop a remote system to monitor transformers regularly because manual inspections are expensive and uneconomical. Although we have long needed real-time remote monitoring of transformers, it was not until recently that we had a viable communication medium and data acquisition system. In the past few decades, with the rapid development of field programmable gate array (FPGA) technology, the reliability of distributed networks has been greatly improved. In addition to traditional technical data such as current and voltage, power monitoring operators also need information such as oil temperature and oil level in the transformer to ensure reliable power supply and assist them in making daily decisions.

　　System specification

The Transformer Monitoring System ( TMS ) 　　we developed uses CompactRIO with a GPRS/code division multiple access (CDMA) communication interface to enable remote collection of daily and total transformer power usage, real-time and long-term data management, automatic report generation, energy accounting, and graphical display of transformer status on a GIS in a centralized data center (see Figure 1).

　　user interface

　　The data center application includes an interactive user interface developed using LabVIEW (see Figure 2) that allows users to view real-time and historical data in different formats based on the power network hierarchy. The application can collect data from multiple CompactRIO modules synchronously in real time, and can also collect data on a pre-defined schedule based on demand.

　　MIS

　　Management Information Systems (MIS) allow power companies to upgrade their systems with minimal time and money investment. MIS's graphical analysis reports (Figures 3 and 4) provide relevant information in a timely and accurate manner. These reports can be used at various decision-making levels in the organization, meeting different needs both inside and outside the company.

　　Power outage management system

　　The Outage Management System (OMS) includes all business processes and supporting technologies related to customer power outage events. Outage management generally includes outage notifications and general service issues. By providing customers with fast and accurate maintenance and outage fault information, OMS simplifies work arrangements and improves customer service quality. The system sends pre-defined parameters to users via email, SMS and graphical user interface, and provides alarm service functions for illegal operations, abnormal power factor, interference and other situations.

　　Geographic Information System

　　Our GIS system provides visualization of the power network and power system resources (see Figure 5). GIS uses special symbols to display the current status of the power network. The system can move to nodes of interest on the map and zoom in and out. The map can automatically change the display level, so customers can edit networks such as substations (66/33/11kV), transformers/transmission line segments (33/22/11kV) and distribution transformers. Then users can obtain transformer information in real time through GIS, such as power parameters and oil level and oil temperature information.

　　Transformer Asset Management System

　　In the power network, power facilities include various transformers and related accessories. There is a lot of data available in power facilities, but usually we only use a small part of it for limited data exchange with other applications. Asset management helps us manage the procurement, use and disposal of assets to achieve the maximum utilization of assets, and manage the risks and costs associated with the entire life cycle of the system. The system provides various data on transformer assets.

　　Web Publishing

　　We built a custom web application to help users connect the system to the LabVIEW Web server. Users can only enter the main program of the system after successfully logging in based on authorization authentication, identity authentication, and access security authentication. Different levels of users can access real-time and historical data. The system records all successful and failed login requests. Different customers can view the application based on the corresponding access permissions. Web publishing provides a simple, effective and low-investment way to obtain data.

　　in conclusion

　　TMS provides a user-friendly and reliable solution. The system realizes centralized monitoring and diagnosis of remotely distributed distribution transformers based on CompactRIO platform and LabVIEW . The system can identify inefficient areas and help users take corrective measures to avoid power outages and thus improve power supply reliability, ultimately improving user satisfaction and extending the life of the equipment.